to TSD "Gilly" The Merkur 34C is a good starting razor. Getting a large blade sampler pack is also a good idea.
So my Father Inlaw's razor has Gillette on the top and a date of 1932 stamped on the bottom and it is in really good shape!
Italian Barber and Fendrihan. Both have free shipping (above a certain amount purchased) in Canada. I like the selection at Italian Barber better.
Actually what most people say is Feather blades are sharp! I never found any love for them myself. While they are sharp IMO other blades PolSilver Super Iridiums, Personna Lab Prep and Vikings Sword to name a few are just as sharp and are MUCH kinder and less harsh to my face. The only way to know for sure if any particular blade gives you a close shave with minimum/no irritation is to try it. That's why trying many different blades in the beginning is so important.
That razor was known as a "Ball End" Tech. They give nice mild shaves and are favored by my shavers including myself. Many people find they shave comparable to a Merkue 34C and EJ89. Based on the date code I see on the underside of the blade pan it was made in the 2nd quarter(2) of 1951(W). Unless the Canadian date coding was different from the American?
Thanks! I appreciate your help in identifying this razor. I can't wait to use it. I have to give it a thorough cleaning first. it has been sitting in my father in law's shed for the last thirty five years!
