I am ready to ditch the cartridges and take the next step into a DE razor. I believe that I am using the right stuff as far as creams, WH, AS/ASB. I am still getting some irritation / mild burn on my neck from the 5 blade monster. After some research, budget a big factor, I narrowed it to a Super Speed or a 1912 Gem Jr. I am really looking for the most forgiving, “simplistic” razor. I can see myself being very dangerous without the forgiveness of a cartridge. Can anyone steer me in the right direction? Also, I plan on purchasing this on ebay (unless someone here is looking to part with one). What is a fair price that I should be looking to pay for either of these?
I always recommend a Tech for the first D/E. user Barring that, if you decide that you want a Super Speed, take a look at the TSD store. I know JoAnna just recently put alot of razors up for sale. There are several flavors of Super Speeds listed, as well as some Techs. The 1912 she had listed sold quickly.
Any of the razors discussed (SS, Tech or 1912 Gem Jr.) would work out very nicely. The SS, particularly in the adjustable variety, offers a lot of flexibility as far as aggressiveness. While mastering technique it can be turned down to not so aggressive and once you've got it down, you can crank it up to max aggressive if you'd like. The Tech would be a great starter razor as well. It tends to be on the mild side but even so, it will grow on you after a while it's really quite forgiving and a darned fun razor to shave with. Being a Gemocrat I'm probably a bit biased toward the 1912. Of the three it is probably the most aggressive but don't let that scare you off, it's a very comfortable razor and a bit more forgiving of technique errors than a Micromatic. All three are fairly plentiful and readily available for less than $15
They didn't call it a Gem Junior for no reason.The best razor ever designed for beginners,or anybody actually.
It will come as no surprise that I agree with that one. I see no reason why a beginner can not use a 1912 as a learning razor. The only draw back will be that the DE guys will loose a member. The angle is much more natural to me with the SE then the DE. I also think that I naturally use less pressure with the SE. Not sure why that is but that is how I feel. Fuzzy
Actually there are some outstanding deals in the TSD store for some classic razors, either a Tech or Super Speed would be a great place to start
I have a vintage Gillette SS and I can vouch for how easy it is to use. Very forgiving for lack of shaving technique, but as you gain experience it gets better. Just remember whatever razor you decide upon, the most important aspect of D/E shaving is technique. Master proper technique and you could shave with a ... Welcome aboard and may you experience many wonderful years of D/E shaving
I think the 1912 Gems are excellent razors for beginners or experts. The angle is already there for you. All you have to do is shave. I found DE or SE shaving extremely easy to pick up. I think the biggest thing is not being intimidated by the razors because they are quite heavy and solid metal compared to the Fusion.
