Finally got my hands on an R41 today for a test drive. Everyone knows the R41 is legendary for it's aggressiveness, it did not disappoint. I usually shave with an OC razor and tend to favor more aggressive razors in general so I felt comfortable trying the R41. I used my regular soap (BTRC No. 13) and a brand new Polsilver SI blade. I hadn't shaved since Friday morning so I had a good 3-day beard to test with. Let me just say again, the razor did not disappoint. I made 2 passes (NS/SN) and it didn't take long for me to get use to the R41's geometry, however, it is a razor you must respect or you could pay the price. I managed not to nick or cut myself which actually surprised me a little after all I have read. Overall, the shave was VVG. There is one negative but it was easily overcome. About 1/2 way through my first pass, I had to swap the handle out for a BTRC 30S because I nearly dropped the razor twice. The stock chrome-plated handle is very smooth with shallow, fine knurling. With just a little lather it became difficult to hold on to. By comparison, the 30S is solid stainless steel and has a deep knurl that will prevent slipping even if caked with loads of slick lather. Changing the handle made all the difference in the world.
The R41 is one of my favorite. I never cut myself, but always use caution. A great shaver. I agree about the handle. I usually use a bit of alum on the handle to reduce the slickness and improve the grip. Steve
Wtg, I agree bout the handle. But mine is sooo pretty with the rose gold handle, I suffer through it.
Bought mine when they first hit the market. After using it for the first time, I replaced the handle with a custom magnet handle by Cooncat Bob (RIP).
Bumped up the aggression on mine with a DE89 style cap and changed to a Scotch & Stowe (similar to Maggard) handle. I'm loving it now!
Love the R41. I have the older version, and put it on a ikon bulldog handle. Been my daily driver for years, now that my hands shake too much for a straight. Sent from my SAMSUNG-SM-G900A using Tapatalk
Welcome to the club! I use an R41 every day with a webber Bulldog handle. Sent from my SAMSUNG-SM-G925A using Tapatalk
I've got one too, it's my daily razor. Does the job quickly and easily. Glad you liked it. I replaced my stock handle with a handle that was gifted to me by @PickledNorthern. It's an awesome razor.
R41 was and probably still IS my favorite DE razor. Either the killer 2011 version or the later model...both quite aggressive compared to most other DEs. My review from 2014: Comparing the R41s
The EJ cap is just a bit narrower than the stock R41 cap, giving a bit more blade exposure. I was told (in some thread on here) that doing this kind of duplicates the out of production earlier model of the R11 (2011? 2013? I forget.) I like the results.
I really wanted to love this razor. The head style is impressive and the stock handle is beautiful. As others said, the handle is dangerously slippery. Unfortunately I parted with mine to another member on a shave forum, so it went to a good home. The razor was finicky with the right angle and a bit rough on my face, but surprisingly never cut myself and hardly any weepers. It is indeed an efficient machine. Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk