I was thinking of using the Gem Featherweight today. Then the topic of the 1st and 2nd Gen came up on another forums. So I used both in a 2 pass comparison sharing a 6th use Gem SS PTFE. Then the winner finished up a touch up pass.
The Sterling soaps Almost Heaven lathered very well with my custom SHD 2 Band badger brush.
The 1st Gen FW DELUXE took the right side. The shave was mild and smooth feeling while still having good efficiency.
The 2nd Gen FW handled the left side. This razor was slightly more aggressive/harsh feeling while strangely somehow seeming simultaneously slightly less effective.
At the end of the two pass shave the 1st Gen was winning with a more comfortable closer shave.
The 3rd pass went to the 1st gen for a light touch up.
Aqua Velva 5in1 finished things off for a very enjoyable shave experience.
I said it before and I'll say it again if I only had one featherweight it would definitely be the first Gen Deluxe. However I still enjoy having both 1st and 2nd Gen razors.
1st Gen Deluxe on left 2nd on right.
You can see slight differences on the inside of the top cap. The blade tray looks the same to me.
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1st Gen Deluxe on Left 2nd Gen on right.
Again small differences noticeable on top caps.
The thumb tab is most notable to me. I prefer the feel of the 1st Gen thumb tab.
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