It is hard to believe that GEM would put its name on a piece of junk like the Micromatic, aka junkomatic. Not far behind the junk o matic on my list are the featherweight and the contour. Not so much for their shavability but instead poorly designed handles that constantly slip in my hand. Wet, dry they slip in my hand and I invariably get a nick with them. But the junk o matic, run from them if you can.
There are some visible differences in the spine of the GEM (by Personna) blades I got at Walgreens and the Pella blades that you sent my way. The blades you sent me have circular impressions at the edges of the spine that the Walgreens GEMs don't. I haven't shaved with the Pella blades yet though, so I can't make a comparison of the edges themselves.
I have learned to enjoy my open comb micromatic. It takes a lot of focus to use properly but I had one of the best shaves of my life with one. That said, I've also shredded my face with that razor. It's hard to use, but yet worthwhile. Other SE razors are much easier to use.
I used my open comb Micromatic just now and it did my neck perfect. It was hell on my chin area and cheeks. I am going to use a combo of razors when I shave from now on.
I have a OC Micromatic and a 1912. I do fine with either razor, but you DEFINATELY have to drive them careful.
