After a month of straight shaving, I'm back to SEs. And what a way to start the SE shaves with none other than the TARMAX SE Adjustable by Tom White
@twhite.
First, a couple of tips. From Tom's pictures, I knew that the safe thing to do was to disassemble and assemble the razor on a towel, and away from the sink. That spring is tiny. Also, when shaving, be mindful that the blade corners are exposed.
Now, the razor. This is a GEM-style razor that clamps the blade with a method similar to the Blackland Sabre. The base plate is stationary, and the spring-loaded mechanism gives the blade clamp an adjustable range of almost one millimeter with one full turn of the handle. With that much range, one can go from fairly mild to crazy aggressive. The handle is nicely proportioned for the overall size of the razor, and the angles with sharp corners compliment the head design quite well. The knurling on the handle is very grippy without the rough feel or sharp points. I found the grip very secure, and the tapered tail provides a comfortable resting point for the little finger. The cap is thin and flat allowing for a very shallow angle and doesn't drag lather or skin. The safety bar is not too far forward and therefore allows a steeper angle under the nose. And yes, as you can see from the picture, the blade is perpendicular to the handle. For me, the angle adjustment was simple. Usual grip, but raise the elbow.
On to the shave. I just love the scent of Santal Absolut. It lathers well and for me, it's a soap that works well with synthetic knots also. My favorite synthetic brush is the #375 by
@Jayaruh . And so, with a couple of my favorites and a good lather, I'm on to the first pass. With a new Personna GEM PTFE stainless blade and the TARMAX SE set to #5 (half turn), the first pass was a breeze. Good blade-feel but not threatening at all. I was being careful not to put too much pressure on the face and just let the blade do the work. I felt the blade corners a couple of times but nothing to worry about. The second pass was more about enjoying the razor, and the third pass became touch-ups. I finished up with Santal Absolut's aftershave. I think on next shave I will set the razor at #3 and go from there. At #5 the blade takes over the razor a bit, (if that makes any sense). The TARMAX SE is a solid performer for sure. The handle stayed on the set number and it was easy to maneuver. No problems under the nose. This is one well-crafted razor. Can't wait for the next shave.
This was quite a neat experience. Tom White obviously has a gift for making these wonderful tools. There is a sense of appreciation when one uses a razor that is handmade, is one of a kind, and may never get to see again. Well done, Mr. White.
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