Ok guys, trying to see if I can get an equal quality shave in less than 5 passes. The only thing I havent tried is a slant. Not trying to replace my de's , se's or str8's, just wanna see if its possible. I'm ready for a new addition to my den and a slant is the only style of face mower I don't have. Now fellas, I need you experienced slant guys to let me in, which one? Pros and cons?
When I use a slant, I use a vintage bakelite slant. I typically reserve it for when I have several days worth of growth. Cuts through it all like butter. I did have a Merkur Slant once upon a time, but it was too aggressive for me.
I have an Ikon slant that I consider aggressive, but I haven't tried the Merkur Slant so can't give a comparison.
A slant will be my next razor. I have the Fasan slant, I think it's worthless. I really like Merkur 39c the sledgehammer.
I used to use a modified version of thee Merkur 39c with a heavy custom handle. Truthfully, I didn't find it particularly a beast. It was a good shaver and very good at taking down a couple of day's worth of growth like Blanka said. But an everyday shaver...?? Nah.
I have used extensively the Merkurs (37c & 39c) and currently am using the Ikon. All three slants I would consider aggressive and efficient razors that gave me a very close, comfortable shave. Not BEASTS, but very efficient. All required a light touch at first, but I was very impressed how smooth my face was after only the first pass. Price-wise, the Ikon is nearly 3x the cost of the Merkurs. It is a sturdy, well-made razor. The larger sloping head, at least for me, took a little time to find the proper angle. It is built to last a lifetime. Some people have had issues with blade alignment on the Ikon. Ikon addressed this by posting a video on their site explaining how to properly load a blade (!). I have not had any problem with the alignment. Like the Merkur slants, the Ikon slant can produce BBS results with ease. I really enjoyed the Merkur 39c 'sledgehammer'—two pass BBS shaves were commonplace when I used this razor. NEVER had any nicks or weepers using it. The 37c is identical to the 39c, but has a standard (smaller) handle. Again, as with the Ikon, there have been claims of blade alignment problems with the Merkur slants, plus some issues on the finish or plating. I've had no issues with the alignment on these razors. As you have discovered, these razors are NOT as aggressive as the Mühle R41 (not even the milder 2013 version)—but they are a bit more forgiving and still provide a great shave. Which razor is for you depends on your budget. All three of these slants I found to be exceptional razors. I wish I still had my 39c......seller's regret.
All great info. The reason I want to try a slant is bec. of the 2 wierd groth patterns on my neck. I have to do a wierd se to nw pass to get them, I figure a slant will be facing the correct angle and I can pull n to s and get the same results. I hope The reason for an aggressive razor is due to my crazy, thick, curly beard. Like razor wire.
I've read many posts from guys with 'barbed-wire' beards that love their slant bar razors. Even the retailers often promote the slants as 'ideal' for those with heavy beards. Now my beard is definitely NOT heavy, so I mistakenly thought the slants would be too much for my needs. Because they shave so efficiently—(and comfortably), I can see them being ideal for those heavy-bearded types, but the slants will do just fine in pretty much anyone's den.
No Sir, I have always wanted too however. I recently obtained a Sledgehammer but loaned it out before I used it myself. It and a Gem should be in my p.o. box by friday. The Gem is going straight out to another member but I'm gonna keep the sledge for a while, at least until I can use it a time or two.
The Slant is a much more user friendly razor than people give it credit for. For some it eliminates a pass from their shaves. The 39C works well even with my "sensitive" skin and for me is more amenable for every day shaving than the Barbasol or the R41 2013.
Slant ROCKS !! CB.....I only mentioned the R41 because you said, "I REQUIRE as aggressive a razor as I can get" I don't really think of the 'Slant' as extremly aggressive....but I do think it's a great design...I've only used an old Hoffritz which was a rebranded Merkur...and with a sharp blade I found it to be pretty effortless and efficient...But I still did 3 passes....and enjoyed each one.... I'm thinking, for you probably having a slant and the R41 in your stable wouldn't be a bad idea...They are sooo different... PS; I agree with Gary and I personally don't consider the R41 an everyday razor either ...although some cats that I respect do....
Ok guys, the purchase has been postponed, Holyrollah is loaning me an R41, Always wanted to try one and now I have the chance. The generousity of our members never ceases to amaze me. I'm gonna test drive the R41 before I add another tool to the den.
