The vintage, all-metal Atra handles are the nicest stock handles Gillette made for a cartridge, imo. If you like the way the Vector shaves, you would probably find the Atra a worthy upgrade.
I started using a Gillette Fusion Flex Ball Pro-Glide. I like it might take a little getting used to.
Initially, Vector is a flimsy razor. You won't find yourself satisfied with the pivoting. But after a couple of shaves, it becomes pretty solid and a joy to use.
Today : Gillette Vector (Atra) with Chinese Vector cartridge Brut Shaving Foam (applied with omega syntex) Rasasi Cool splash AS (Citrus with a hint of wood and vetiver notes), scent is pretty similar to Yardley's Citrus and wood. I am beginning to believe, my face and Atra (vector) are made for eachother. I gave this razor every reason (Continuous blade buffing and reckless strokes) to ruin its good impression on me, but it just refused to go harsh on my face. Amazing razor!
I'll be using it for my head shaves, I found these beautiful custom Atra type razors on Etsy for $12. I might get one if the Vector works out for me.
True ... I like the looks of the aluminium Contour handle better than the metal/plastic GII razor. They could just have done with a fixed head for me.
Not to sound snooty, but I'll point out that the head on that is largely plastic. That doesn't necessarily make it a bad thing, but those not familiar with Atra handles might not pick up on it. Personally, my preference is for the all-metal ones. As far as aftermarket Atra handles go, the nicest ones are probably the bespoke Reed Barton handles that came out in the '80s and '90s. I have one, but I honestly wouldn't say I like it better than my '77 stock handle. If you can score a nice vintage stock handle at a reasonable price, it's hard to do better, imo. YMMV, of course.
In my case, nothing beats the atra elite handle . Combination of rosewood and gold theme metal is very catchy for the eye. Travel case is compact and good enough to hold cartridges at the back (if I am not wrong).
I'm working on getting a metal head Atra, I'll know in 2 days. If I'm being honest im not willing to spend over $10 for a metal head handle (original Gillette Atra) The only use the razor could possibly see is for my head shaves. Right now I'm using a great razor (Schick I1 injector) I'd like another option. Thanks for the advice! It's important that I know what I'm looking for. Kerry
There are many Atra compatible handles: Dorco TGII Schick Ultra/Ultrex/Exacta2/Extra2 Gillette Vector/Slalom Wilkinson Sword Profile mk1/mk2