It seems I'm a slowish learner. When I first DE shaved as a kid, if I remember correctly [doubtful] the blades we could get were Gillette or Wilkinson Sword. But now I have all these new blades I just have to try . Derby were ok the first couple of shaves, the odd nick and a weeper or two but I put that down to quite awhile away from cold hard steel with a super sharp edge. Well I decided today to give them the benefit of the doubt - zap a severe nick in my top lip. My technique isn't all that bad but man I'm not a fan of Derby blades. Great close shave yes but I've found Feather blades more predictable. At least they don't pretend they are not going to cut you. Of course YMMV Steve
Derby blades work for some people, in some razors. I've only had luck with them in a pre-War Tech and in a Gillette New Short Comb. All other razors I've tried them in are a massive tugging and stinging experience.
I'd rather die at sea than grab a life preserver tossed by a Derby blade. Terrible things. I'll have no truck with them.
I don't believe I have actually purchased any Derbys. I got a pack when I got my EJ DE89 years ago. I do not recall having any problems with those blades. However, I have moved on. Maybe I am a dullard or something, but I get along with just about any blade. I had one Voskhod that I had to toss after the second shave, but I usually get good mielage out of my blades.
Really comparing opposite ends of the spectrum when comparing a Derby to a Feather or vice versa..................
There must be witch among us. I just got my first bad shave with a derby. Two days ago all was good then I changed the blade since I forgot how many shaves it has been....no bueno
I tried one Derby blade and it was harsh so I tossed it after 1 shave. I don't have much patiences with blades. I found after fearing them for my first 2 months of shaving that Feathers work for me in every razor I have. That's all I use now except for the occasional stray that comes into my Den.
Same experience here. Finally found a pack of Personnas and life was good once more. Since then I loaded up with a couple boxes of 100 online. Should be good for a while.