While posting a pic the other day of my blade collection, I realized there's a couple in there I've never even tried, so I figure I might as well use 'em. If it's no trouble, could someone post a quick breakdown (if one doesn't already exist - if so please tell me where) of the more common stainless blades categorized by sharpness: Mild, Moderate and Very? I think I know where a few are reputed to fall (Feather = Very; Derby = Mild/Moderate), but the rest I'm not sure. I also know opinions would vary but I figure the general consensus would put each blade in roughly the same category. But overlaps between categories is fine with me, I'm just looking for ballpark. Thanks for any help...
I am working on more testing so I best stop with that list. The list above is some of what I tested or used that are still on the market.
Gotcha. I was directing that at gorgo, so we could know specific brands he was talking about that he found in his stash that he hadn't tried yet. Just got lazy and didn't hit the reply link on his post.
Yes, lets not go into my stash at the moment. I need to clean and straighten the supply cabinet and I don't want to do that now!
Wonderfulness! Thank you, that is exactly what I wanted. I don't have nearly all of those but I've got a pack of Blue Bird. You know that one? Thanks again!!!
PS I did try my first Astra this evening, in the Ranger Tech. Very good shave, noticeably sharper than Dorco ST300 and probably better than the Derby (been awhile since I used one), which are the only other ones I'm familiar enough with to compare to.
Astra blades are good blades, especially the Astra Superior Platinum blades in the olive-green and white packaging.
I agree with Jody on the Astas, a good blade for the money and the quality is consistant. After about 2 years of trying out different blades I have settled on Perma-Sharp S/S Polsilver Astra Superior Gillette NOS Bleues (Discontinued but have eer a few stashed) Gillette "Swedes"..... (as above) I also have a box of odds and sods......English Wilkies, Old Gillette Blue blades, 7 O'Clocks of various types, Schick Plus Plats..............sometimes it is nice to try out different blades..
another vote for the Astras- you might also check out Personna Lab/ Med blades. Good consistent quality, long lasting, and cost efficient. From what I've read the lab blades are the same as the med, but without the final sterilization. You can get the lab blades for $20 for 100, which is a steal when you consider that you can get 5+ shaves per blade.
Now one thing is the sharpness is only one facet of a blades value. Smoothness of shave, longevity and yes even price factors in as well.
The only problem is they seem to all be in the USA and us poor Brits don't get a look in unless we want to pay stiff postage charges............they seem to get good reviews on the US forums tho..........
