View attachment 245294
DE Shave # 327
Rating: 5 / 5
Razor: Merkur 37c Slant
Blade: Gillette Silver Blue
Brush: Semogue Torga C5
Lather: Razorock X (1508.5)
Aftershave: Razorock X
Additional Care:
Stirling Alum Block
Stirling Tea Tree Witch Hazel
Stirling Unscented Glacial Balm
I decided to forego the planned straight razor shave to test a theory I had regarding the Muhle R41. Wait! "Joe your shave pictures the Merkur 37c?” In my post yesterday, I expressed that I did not find my Muhle R41 as being overly aggressive, when compared to some observations of other users. I have received countless phenomenal shaves without incident. Joe,
@Primotenore, suggested that I provide some incite regarding my approach with the R41 so others may benefit. I had planned on commenting last night.
My theory is the tremendous success with the R41 is that the weight of the razor plays into allowing me to control the razor easily. I find my Merkur 37c to be more aggressive. This morning I decided to weigh both razors with a blade. My findings:
R41: 137 g Maggard's MR3 handle. The handle weighs 98 g.
37c: 76 g
This morning's shave with the Merkur 37c delivered a smooth, close shave. However, I did manage to obtain a weeper on Adam's apple. I attribute this to user error, moving to quickly resulted in a set down error. Apparently, the greater the weight of the razor the more mindful I am of my approach to placing the razor.
The process for the R41 is as follows:
1. Load the brush with soap. If the 1508.5 Project - load directly in the container for 60 seconds then whip up in the bowl. Other shaves, scoop an almond sized amount of soap, press into the bowl and proceed whipping into a nice lather.
2. I apply the soap for a three pass shave, WTG, XTG, and OTG.
3. With each pass, I set the razor down carefully onto the shaving area.
4. Establish an angle that I have found works with the R41, approximately in the 25 - 30 degree range. (Almost riding the cap)
5.Strokes: Slow and controlled. Longer along the side of the face. Shorter on the chin and neck areas.
6. Following each pass, I lightly apply cold moisture to the shave area, reapply soap and proceed.
7. After the three passes, I lather a fourth time. Clean up the hardware, wipe off lather, rinse with hot then cold water.
8. Apply alum, witch hazel, balm and finally splash.
In conclusion, the R41 is a great razor. As with each razor in my den, there is a learning curve to work through the idiosyncrasies of each. Given time and patient, you will manage great shaves with each. That being said, become complacent, the razor will remind you very quickly who is boss.
Have a great day gentlemen.
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