I am about to try a Muhle R41 Open Comb Razor and am not sure which blade to start with. I currently use an Edwin Jagger DE89 with Feather blades but have used Derbys, Sharks and a few other in it previously. I do like the Feathers but am concerned that they may be a little extreme to start with Any suggestions?
Astra Superior Platinum I find to match very well with the razor. You can eventually trade-up to the Feathers or Personna Meds, but the Astras are a very good start. The R41 isn't a true open comb, but sort of a modified hybrid of the safety bar/open comb concept.
I haven't entirely 'warmed up' to it yet. It's soft, somewhat floppy, and the tips are a bit prickly. With the right soap, however, it does the job well enough.
For the R41, I prefer Perma-Sharp Super blades as my primary choice with Gillette Silver Blues and Rapira Swedes closely behind.
Additionally, I find the 2013 version more forgiving of blade choice than the 2011 model, which can become quite unpleasant with the wrong blade.
Thanks for the replies. I tried it this morning with the blade that came with it (a Derby). Managed 3 passes, WTG, XTG, ATG no problems. Thanks again for the blade suggestions. I look forward to trying them out
In the past I have had bad experiences with feather blades in any razor. Been using feathers in the R41 and got three great shaves from the same blade. Maybe my technique is better or just that the combination of razor and blade is good for my face, I don't know the answer now only future shaves will tell. Either way feathers worked really well for me.
You make a good point, maybe its time to try Feather blades in my other razors again, and see if I have improved my technique. I want to like and enjoy these blades. When things go well with the Feathers I get a great shave, but for me, Feathers razor burn is very, very, bad and painful.
I was assuming he is using the newer 2013 version since the 2011 model is not only growing quite scarce, but also comes at a hefty price (easily twice the cost of a new one) on the used market.
I am using a 2013 version. I have tried some Gillette Blues which are working well in this razor. I will try some Astra's and the Feather's which are my usual blade (in an Edwin Jagger DE89). I have used the R41 for five days now.