So, I've done a few shaves now using the Feather blades from my sampler pack. I chose the Feathers based on several people here posting positive experiences with them, and they've also done well for me. So, my question is this - if I'm happy with the Feathers, should I still try the other blades in the pack? Or, once you find any blade that works, should you just stick with it? I mean...if it ain't broke... Did all of you really try all the different blades in your sampler packs before choosing your favourite? Or did you just find the first one you liked and stick with it??
I can't answer that for you. That's a decision you will have to make on your own. When I started wet shaving with a DE razor, I used the Wilkinson Sword blades from Wal*Mart and was content. A couple years later I started trying different blades, and now I've come to the conclusion that those blades were an average blade but not the best for me, compared to other blades like Feather, Astra, and Polsilver. All knowledge is worth having. Some will tell you to follow the 30 day rule, which is sound advice. (Follow the link in my signature for my thoughts on this). When you are starting out, it's better to learn what works and practice it, than to immediately try new stuff. YMMV.
I tried all of the sample blades that I had, then picked out the best performing blade and stuck with it. When I say tried them, I mean I shaved with them at least 3 or 4 shaves. Once I found my favorite blade, I still from time to time try one of the blades that I initially didn't really care for. Different razors perform differently. Some blades work better in different razors. I think this is why I got so involved into DE shaving. SO many variables to try and with the some dumb luck, I have found a good combination just by switching things around. It's fun!
Go with trying other blades, there may be ones that perform better than feathers, or just as equally but for less of a price. Nothing wrong with trying out a few others
I like the 30 day idea. When you find a blade that works well for you, use it for 30 days. That way you know that any improvements you're seeing are from your technique, not because of a different blade. You're bound to get better over the first month or two and it would be nice to know whether it's the blade that's the difference or you technique. They also say should stick to the same prep and soap or cream during this time. That said, this is supposed to be enjoyable, not a science experiment so switch it up as often as you'd like, but know it may delay your mastery of the craft (if that's a big deal to you...it's not to me so long as I get a great shave)
That was what I did. I went ahead and tried 2 or 3 blades from each pack/box, and keep the ones I "liked" separate. I got "lucky" in that one of the blades that liked was fairly cheap: Lord Super Chrome (white label). The other blades I liked were a little bit more expensive (Gillette Blacks and PolSilver SI) but also worked great for me, so now I have 3x blades to choose from.
The 30 day rule will help in your choice. If for no other reason it helps SLOW you down some. A sampler pack is a neccesity to my mine. The more blades you can try the better. I've had several go-to blades which is ok except, I bought bulk orders of them(100,300,100) too soon, only to try a different blade later and fall in again. My go-to blades as of now are Astra SP's, but my favorites as of now are PolSilver Super Iridiums. With still more to try...... Do you factor in only blade performance(sharpness,smoothness and longevity) or price and availability as well when picking a favorite?
I personally consider blade performance, and being able to get at least two very good shaves from a blade, ahead of price. Price is the last factor for me, since relatively speaking blades are still "cheap".