First shave EJ DE89

[jesseix]

Once you've "nailed" the EJ try shimming it with 2-3 blades to open up the gap and get it a little more aggressive.

Just clip a couple of used blades with a pair of scissors along the blade or cutting edge (take 2-3 mm off) and insert them so that the blade is above them as you tighten down (they'll act like washers on a bolt).

Interesting idea; it sounds like you've experimented with this a bit, does it mess with the razor head at all? I wonder if there's any negative impact on the threading on the top place and/or the handle (I can't imagine there would since a razor 'shim' can't be too thick, but you never know)

[nycebo]

It is indeed a solid razor. While some may not think it is 'aggresive' enough, virtually any blade and nice technique always gives me a DFS after just 2 passes....and I've only been on the DE track for the past 2 weeks.

[takeshi]

Sticking with the Astra over the Derby will probably serve you well.

One can't tell if a blade works for that person or not without trying it.

if one needs more aggressiveness the R41 is the best

Subjective/YMMV. Even those seeking more aggressive aren't necessarily seeking the exact same level of aggressiveness.

Keep in mind that best is always highly subjective no matter what the topic.

[TallyShave]

Once you've "nailed" the EJ try shimming it with 2-3 blades to open up the gap and get it a little more aggressive.

Just clip a couple of used blades with a pair of scissors along the blade or cutting edge (take 2-3 mm off) and insert them so that the blade is above them as you tighten down (they'll act like washers on a bolt).

I have had this razor for about a year and a half, but never tried this. Based on this post (and reading up a little more on it) I added 2 blade shims a couple days ago. What a great and simple idea! Just adds a touch more exposure without compromising any of the comfort and smoothness of this razor.

[Vdubya789]

Welcome and congrats on the good first shave. I just started myself (this past Monday). The next few might get rough but after you get your angle and pressure down its smooth shaving.

[Wayne1963]

I love my DE89, but I have made a modification to it. I took the stainless handle from my Feather Stainless (A TOTAL PIECE OF SHIT, DON'T WASTE YOUR MONEY ON ONE!!!!) and replaced the stock handle. Talk about a buttery smooth close shave...forget about it. I had been a Slantbar junkie, but this set-up yields just as close a shave, without the diligence required from the Slant.

[kiwi_Tom]

Welcome and enjoy the shaves, Definitely give the Derby blades a try, for some they are excellent however for others not so much. If I am trying to compare blades I will often change a blade mid shave (dry your hands first) so I can get a direct comparison between two contenders, Its amazing how two blades can feel so different.

[Samjax]

A TOTAL PIECE OF SHIT, DON'T WASTE YOUR MONEY ON ONE!!!!

Wayne...any chance of you being totally honest and telling us what you really think about the Feather?

[rand77]

Congratulations one finding a razor that works for you. I personally love my DE89 variant paired with a Feather or Med Prep blade.

[brother cavefish]

best razor in town

[El-a-Menthol]

^ as for me... EJ + Astra Sp = great shave!

Yep.

[kw108]

+1 from eme Astra or Derby blades work fine for me, Astra probably a bit sharper

[shaverjoe]

Congrats on finding a razor that works for you. I think the EJ DE89 is an excellent shaver. It is mild but it provides an excellent shave. I like the EJ/Astra combo as well.

[Paddy Pucks]

I only own a DE89, but I replaced the stock handle with the Weber Bulldog handle. I tried a blade sampler and came away ordering 100 of the Astra SP's. Great combo as many of you had said. I thought I was all set on blades, but I threw in a small pack of Personna Red's in my last order from West Coast Shaving and I think I might actually prefer the Reds. My shave was closer, just as smooth as the Astra's, and no irritation.

[nannahill]

I'll echo the Personna Red sentiments. GBE's get along with it well too. I've been using my DE89 for the last few weeks and like it a lot. The soap.com deal couldn't be beat.

[jmsodpc]

so i just took my first step towards this DE shaving....as a kid i saw my dad do it but since then he has switched to the megabladed fusion razors like i have been using for years.

today i was on a buying spree....
i ordered a fine badger lijun brush,
i ordered a Edwin Jagger DE89 razor,
i ordered bigelow shaving cream in a tube,
i also ordered a black brush/razor stand,
and i just ordered a blade bank along with black lather bowl and a pack of astra blades.
the edwin jagger will come with a few derby razor blades.

wow...almost $100 spent and this is the old school way?!?

couldve gotten a panasonic wet/dry electric for that price

[nycebo]

So worth the price. You will love it. Transforms a daily chore into a loved ritual.

[flanman]

Very awesome! I just purchased one for myself, yesterday. With these reviews, I'm sure to like it. This will be my third razor, btw, of which is the second I've purchased and also the second DE I will own. Thanks for this post.

[Jeff C]

It is a nice razor, my first, with the barley handle. Keep trying different blades, I've tried four so far and have many more to go, from most to least favorite so far: Wilkinson Sword (Germany), Lord, Derby, Merkur.

[Charlie NJ]

It's my favorite razor, I seem to gauge my other razors by the shave and comfort level I get from the 89. I've tried more and less aggressive razors but can't put this one down. I also started with astras but only use feathers and 7 o'clock blacks now. The finish on this razor is impressive also for the price you can't beat it