Gentlemen Barbier Razor no.2 - a short review

[taiga]

Hello all,

I was recently at my local specialty grocery store when I saw they were selling artisanal shaving soaps (Savonnerie Neptune) and razors made by the brand "Gentleman Barbier". I ended up not being able to resist the temptation, and I purchased one to try out. I wasn't able to find any information about this brand / razor on B&B, so I thought I would make a little write up.

First some statistics :
- "Made in France"
- Stainless steel
- Model no.2
- Weighs about 85 grams
- Handle is 9,7 cm
- Sells for 31,90 EUR on their website

I started reading some threads in regards to the "science of razors" and I attempted at measuring some parameters. The blade that came included with the razor was a Tiger Platinum. Using a feeler gauge I measured a blade gap of somewhere between 0.80 and 0.85 mm. I also attempted at measuring the blade exposure. The blade exposure is negative, somewhere between 0.1 and 0.2 mm. (I was using a regular ruler so the measurements are so-so).

The engraving / knurling / pattern on the handle isn't very precisely executed, and it certainly isn't smooth to the touch like the handle on the 34C or the Mühle R41. On the other hand, there's very little chance of slippage when shaving... the upper ridge on the handle is also pretty sharp.

My first time shaving with the razor wasn't very pleasant with a good amount of redness and burning, but I have to say I made the mistake of trying out 3 new products in one go (razor, blade and soap). So the second time around I used a soap I'm familiar with, and a Treet Platinum blade which I'm familiar with as well. This time around shaving was much quicker and pleasant, with minimal redness. Since this is only my second DE razor I've ever used, I can only really compare it to the Merkur 34c. Compared to the 34C :

- The longer handle on the "GB" razor doesn't really make it better or worse for me
- More blade feel... or is just more blade gap? Not sure I like such a large blade gap
- Heavy... not sure I like the weight

In conclusion, build quality / aesthetics aren't as nice as some other razors, but it seems to work fine. I have noticed some blade misalignment, which I will try and rectify. Looking forward to continue trying it out.

I'm not sure how many members we have here at B&B who are located in France (or neighboring countries), but it would be interesting to hear from any if they have any experience with this brand of razors.

 

[BigJ]

Great review!! Thanks!!

 

[StewB]

I would guess that, at the low price point, that only the handle is stainless steel and the head is peobably cast metal. Thanks for the review!

 

[ERS4]

Same vote.
Judging from the remaining processing marks on the head, it is Zamak casting and electroplating.
We can see the circular marks ejected from the mold, as well as the details of the plating surface being wrinkled together.

What’s interesting is that the shape of the pillars under the cap is indeed different from the familiar Merkur/Muhle/Parker or common Chinese imitations, and the baseplate also has special lines.

Thank you very much for sharing.

 

[Phil Dumont]

I own this razor but the n°1 version with a stainless steel shorter handle, exact same head.
Bought it in France (Aups VAR) about 5 years ago, only use it once every 3 month i guess.
Works really well, is a bit more agressive as a King C Gillette , something like my Rockwell 6C with plate 4.
Nothing wrong with this razor but its not special in any way, except it (if this is true) is entirely made in France.

I prefer open comb razors now (Fatip, Yaqi Mellon) or even vintage (Gillette Aristocrat, Slim adjustable).

 

[Saloogie]

Cool razor. Made in France. I would have taken a shot as well.

It could stand to have a better polishing to spruce it up a bit.

Have fun!