Hi all, my first post here Been wet shaving for 2 years with a 34C. I've decided it's time to expand my horizons a little and want to purchase a Karve, but I'm having a hard time picking a plate. A lot of people on the forums buy C and D plates and I was about to order one from westcoastshaving with a C plate, but now I'm thinking maybe I should get an A or B. I use sharp blades in my mild 34C (Polsilver, Rubie, and Silver Blue, mostly) and that combination of sharp blade and mild razor has worked out really well for me. I was wondering if anyone here as field tested the A or B plates against a C plate and could weigh in on whether the A or B plates are "efficient enough". Basically, I would like to get a Karve that has a similar aggression level to my 34 C, or maybe one smaaaaal step up in aggression. Secondarily, I read that a stainless version would become available soon. I was wondering if people who have the brass Karve are fully happy with the brass or think it'd be better to wait for the stainless. Regards, Gareth
Gareth, I have the Karve with B, C, D-OC and E. I cannot compare to the 34C because I do not own one. I seem to gravitate toward the C solid bar and the D open comb. I would not want to go below the C plate. The solid bar seems to be a little smoother in my view. The E plate is a notch above the 6 plate on Rockwell. Clint @clint64 has had more experience with the Karve than I have and I am sure he will chime in when he has a chance. I am completely happy with the brass. I have always liked solid brass. If I was looking at stainless I would probably look at the Rockwell. It will be intersting to see what price point a stainless steel Karve will be at when and if it comes to market. Take care.
Gareth. I feel the C plate is closest to the 34C. I have both. The stainless steel will be around $200 canadian. He's thinking of two models. One like the present design, and another where the tabs are rather closed. Karve is very active on instagram at Karve shaving.
A Karve is a wonderful looker. Might you find a cheaper razor that might give you a feel for the more "agressive" types. There are many on ebay that might give you an ideal. tp