Long handle DE

**Musicman** · 09-21-2006, 05:06 AM

I'm thinking of getting a long handled DE razor to help with the pressure issue. After shaving with Mach 3 and Fusion, the Merkur Classic HD I have feels really short, which may be contributing to more pressure.

So I was wondering if the long handle has the same weight or not.

Loren

**AACJ** · 09-21-2006, 05:19 AM

First off there are three Merkurs you might think of using, I can't tell which you are mentioning since you say the Classic HD. The HD is a heavy duty short handled razor, a little thicker handle but short, I believe this is the one you are talking about.

There is also the Classic and the Classic Long Handle, both have thinner handles than the HD and are lighter. I prefer the Classic (not Long Handle) as it gives me the most control.

**TomH** · 09-21-2006, 05:43 AM

Hi Loren,

I agree with Art, but only want to say that it might be better you take one in your hand to find out, what's better for you, long or short, thin or thick handle.

For me both Merkur, 23c (Classic Long Handle) and 34c (HD with short handle)
work great and I get from both of them a really comfortable shave.

I think it's also important to shave with minimal pressure, let the weight of the razor do the work...

Hope that helps

Thomas

**Stauff** · 09-21-2006, 05:48 AM

The LH is heavier than the classic but not quite as heavy as the HD. I you want a long handled, (very) heavy razor, you could consider the Futur. Three really excellent razors.

**Necator** · 09-21-2006, 06:29 AM

I would suggest a Merkur 23. I use it (and have posted a review elsewhere), and are quite happy with it.

**Musicman** · 09-21-2006, 08:52 AM

I looked at ClassicShaving and Em's Place, but was unable to tell which is the Merkur 23 or 34. Could you help me out? And I'm not sure I want to spend that much money for the Futur right now. It does look nice and seems to have the handle I'm looking for however.

Loren

**PalmettoB** · 09-21-2006, 10:20 AM

23 is the long handle. http://www.classicshaving.com/catalo...941/284064.htm

I got mine at QED, but you have to email, as it is not on the main shopping page. I like this one...it's the one I started with. Even with the shorter handles (I picked up a Gillette super speed at an antiques shop), try gripping just the end.

See Kyle's great primer for holding the razor:
http://www.badgerandblade.com/vb/showthread.php?t=4018

**Musicman** · 09-21-2006, 01:17 PM

Blair, thanks for the info on the 23. I did read Kyle's piece and it was very helpful. But holding the razor as he showed was ackward and unsteady for me. Maybe it's practice.

Loren

**jduffy** · 09-21-2006, 01:31 PM

I was in a brick and mortar when I held the HD for the first time and I was convinced, no way am I shaving with this thing. The salesman gave me the Merkur Classic long handle and I was sold right there. It has a lovely balance that the HD just does not have for me. It really is a nicely made razor.

YMMV of course.