I confessed to you guys already, but I haven't shared all of the details. A couple-few weeks ago, after ranting about the "unreasonable" prices of Gillette adjustables on the bay, I countered with a solid RAD binge. During my RAD frenzy, I stumbled across shaveabuck's "interpretation" of something that looks a whole lot like a Merkur Futur. I sent Joe an e-mail, letting him know that, for less than half price, I could lower my bar on cosmetics, but preferred a razor that would last 10-100 years. Joe replied that his Chinese razors were machined from brass (not cast pot metal, fram!), had a nice finish, and were easily heirloom quality. I took him at his word and placed an order. I used the razor for a week and really liked it. If a Shake Sharp handles like a Porsche, and a EJ89 handles like an Olds Deta 88, then this Cadet adjustable handles like a Winnebago. I could drive cross-country all day long in great comfort. Though I couldn't zip in under my nose, with very careful maneuvering, I was able to extend my BBS into the tight corners. That means I got everywhere I wanted to go in great comfort. I haven't used a Merkur Futur, but I would guess that this one has to come pretty dang close. It was a great shave! NOTE: I started low and moved up. I have not cranked it to aggressive. Don't see why I should, either! The only peccadillo was the numbers and registeration mark for adjusting the razor: they were barely visible. The marks were very finely machined onto the handle. The plating (which looks good!) mostly filled in these marks, making them pretty hard to see. After a week of use and smudges, I'm not sure I can make them out any more (but could probably clean up for a better view)! However, I am not sure that it matters after you have found your sweet spot. I really liked this razor and bet that it can hold its own with its German big brother. If you are tired of waiting for a bargain Gillette adjustable and not ready to pony up for a modern brand name, I heartily recommend this Cadet. For less than half the price ($30 before shipping), how can you go wrong? (Please forgive horrible photos. It's the best I can do with my little point-n-shoot. Sorry.)
I've read up on these Futur (Chinese-made) knock-offs and most of the reviews have been positive. The blade gap adjustments seems to have been the biggest issues so far with them. I really enjoy my Futur. Great razor. It can be a handful and can be slick to hold onto when wet. My feelings are if folks can get a comparable shave from a similarly-styled (or blatantly copied) razor, save a few bucks & they like it, more power to them. It IS a free market and no patent violations appear to be violated. The market will dictate the success. If this cheaper razor sells, more will be made & sold. If it falls apart in short order, or doesn't deliver the goods, it wont sell. Merkur Futur (satin); disassembled
Nice info, thanks for sharing! I've never used an adjustable, but have been curious. This may be an inexpensive option to check one out.
It was out of stock for awhile and now it's back! >here< The price has gone up to $35, but it is still a good value! I am so happy about the CKO's return to shaveabuck that I am going to use mine tomorrow!
