Want to invest in a long handle razor.... should i buy the merkur 23c or http://www.classicshaving.com/classic-deco-vintage-safety-razor.html *anyone have that 2nd razor??
I would spend my money on a Gillette Slim or a long handle Gillette Black Beauty. Both adjustable, both winners. But that's just me.
That 2nd one looks interesting and would probably do fine. I have a 23c and the similar RazoRock Mission razor. I kind of like the slightly heavier Mission razor better and at 19.99 on Italian Barber it's hard to beat. If you want to "invest" in a long handled classic razor then I would definitely agree with a Slim or Black Beauty. They are top quality razors that you can enjoy for many years and pass down or likely sell for a profit decades from now.
A slim would be a really good choice. It will shave mind to aggressive and you can fine them between $15-25.
I have a Merkur head on an Apollo Handle. The added weight works well for me and it has a nice length.
The head on the linked one sort of reminds me of a Utopia. The big handle reminds me a of a Utopia type handle too.
The head on the linked one sort of reminds me of a Utopia. The big handle reminds me a of a Utopia type handle too.[/quote] The head looks like a Muhle/Parker clone. It does remind me of a Utopia, but it is the same style used on the Sabi and Cadet Razors. If it is a Utopia then the plating is too thin for long term viability. but there seems to be an issue of blade alignment as is common on the razor as per this review: For that reason alone I would choose the Merkur. It is worth looking at the Cadet, Sabi, and Fatip if cost is an issue. Sabi: http://shaveabuck.com/sabi-safety-razors-c-80.html?alpha_filter_id=0&filter_id=9&sort=20a Cadet: http://shaveabuck.com/cadet-safety-razors-c-32.html Fatip: http://www.italianbarber.com/safety-razors?sort&filter_id=202 Matador is good too: http://www.razorbladesandmore.com/catalog/double-edge-safety-razors/matador-razors
No question to me. I by far like the Black Beauty. Got to be my favorite razors. I like the 23C alright I tried but I just got better shaves from the BB.
guys....your definitely making this more confusing decision for me and want to make it more interesting. I also saw that the Razo Rock SLAB (shave like a boss) is back in stock and new model called "RAKE" in stock. The RAKE is open comb! Thoughts RAKE vs. SLAB vs. 23c vs. Super Knurl ughh yet to try feather razors....too
Ah yes, we do tend to make things hard on ourselves and others when considering new equipment. So all I can say in response is "follow your gut instinct" when making the choice.
The 23C was my second razor after the MTO. Then in rapid succession I bought a Muhle89/iKon combo from Bullgoose and three vintage Gillettes from the bay. For the modern razors, in retrospect after playing Dr. Frankenstein, I now have developed a preference for the Merkur head with the iKon Bulldog handle. The long 23C handle is too light and skinny, and my face doesn't seem to like the 89 head design. I just don't reach for either one (handle or head). My best shaves come the Merkur/iKon and the vintage Gillettes. Just one guy's opinion...
