As I mentioned in yesterday's SoTD, I've decided to spend a few days trying to get comfortable with the Super-109 that I've had for a while, but haven't used much. Since the SA, seems to get a fair amount of love here, I'm writing in the hopes of getting some advice on some issues I'm having. By way of background, one of my favorite razors is the Slim Adjustable so any comparisons are based on that model. As I started to shave with the Super-109 yesterday, two things that I've noticed before quickly emerged. First, although it may have been soap residue on my hands, it seemed like the handle was much less grippy than on the the Slim or most of my other razors. Second, I started getting some hand cramping though I'm not sure if this was from gripping the razor too tightly or from some balance issue due to the longer handle. (I'm inclined to think it is the latter, though, as I've had similar issues with a long handle on a three-piece razor.) I was able to make corrections and relieve some of the discomfort, but I'd really like to understand what is going on. So... am I the only one who has these issues with the SA? Any advice on the best way to grip one comfortably? Would I do better with a Super-84, perhaps? (And does anyone have one to share? ) Additional thoughts welcome... JR
I have all three (Slim, and both long & short SAs), and my first shave with the 109 was really weird-feeling. I've only used it once, so I reckon it'll take some getting used to. The slipperiness is probably due to the resin handle; my Slim has a nice, firm feel to it. I haven't really used any of my black handles as much as my Techs (those have become my favorites) to notice any slipping, though.
You shouldn't have hand cramping from any razor. You should be gripping the handle with the tips of your fingers, and be using very very light pressure, when shaving. You could be having medical problems, if you are using a light touch already. You might want to consult a physician. I know if I work out harder than usual, I take some Potassium to keep from having leg cramps, at night.
I've read the handle is resin-coated (possibly aluminum)... later models may have been painted. http://theshaveden.com/forums/threads/the-long-and-short-of-it-a-look-at-the-super-adjustable.9591/ Razor Emporium says it's an anodized aluminum handle. http://www.razoremporium.com/gillet...ble-super-84-de-safety-razor-s1-short-handle/
It is aluminum. I once found out the hard way (sodium hydroxide). As for the hand discomfort, I know exactly what you mean except that I don't get it with the SA. I've always gotten it with the Fatboy, which is why I have never owned one for more than a week or two.
In this case, I think it is the touch and something to do with center of gravity. I suspect that I am gripping it too tightly out of fear of it slipping. Also, I think I have the (possibly bad) habit of holding a razor nearer the end of the handle. This is not an issue with the short handles of most of my razors or even with my Schick J1 which has a longer handle yet, but a very light head. OTOH, the Super-109 is already head-heavy to begin with so I think something is going on with center of gravity and or leverage. JR
I have 3 Gillette Adjustables, the Slim, Fatboy and Super Adj. (Black Beauty or BB) Love them all. If your used to the Slim and started shaving with the BB, the heads are the same but balance is much different. The BB is thinner so when i use it I hold it slightly behind the balance of the handle giving the head more weight. I really don't find an issue with it slipping, Never hold a razor too tightly, allowing the hand to cramp up. In any case the hand should be relaxed.
I've got 5 Gillette adjustables, a '58 Fat Boy, '58 Executive, '65 Slim, '70 Short Handle SA and a '75 Long Handle SA and haven't experienced any problems with grip or my hand cramping with any of them. I really like the feel of both Fattys, but don't honestly remember how the Slim or either SA feel. So, my curiosity has been piqued and I think my Long Handle will move up in my list to next in line. Thanks for making the pick for me!
I shaved again today with the Super-109, trying to be more cognizant of not gripping too hard and gripping further up the handle. No cramping, but a definite sense, at times, of how head-heavy the razor is. Somewhere in that, I think, is the root of my issues.
I agree with your "head heavy" comment. I guess I never noticed before. The light aluminum handle makes it that way.
I like the looks of my 109, but I tend to hold it in the middle or towards the top of the handle. Again, I use a very light touch. I hope you can get yours figured out.
Got a '71 SA-109. Been using it since Saturday loaded with a Gillette Silver Blue. Have it set on "7" for the first pass(WTG). Dial it down to "5" for the second(XTG cheeks and chin ATG neck). Touch up if needed. I've been gripping it about half way up the handle both forehand and backhand with no problems. She was going to join my NEW SC and my EJ DE89lbl as my rotation, but she may just wind up my daily driver. I still have to audition blades for it and my NEW so it probably won't be everyday 'til after the New Year.
I just shaved with mine 69 BB this morning. Agree a very nice shaver. However it has a different balance than the Slim and 195 (very top heavy) but not in a bad way you just have to compensate. Matter of fact I kind of like it because no amount of manual pressure is required.
Doing a Focus with my SA-109. Trying to find the right razor/blade combination. Did Astra green. Currently have a Bolzano loaded. Next up is either a Feather or a Gillette 7 o'clock green.
I love the Fat Boy, the Slim, and the Black Beauty (long handle and short handle). I've had zero issues or concerns with these razors or with my hand.
Not sure about your specific issues, but I find the SA too mild, even on 9, and I'm not crazy about the long handle myself.
