Merkur Slant Bar: 37C or 39C? (Short handle or "barber pole")

I'm in the market for a Merkur Slant Bar, and I'm torn between which of these two models I should get: The 37C, with its short handle (Akin to the HD), or the 39C, with its "barber pole" handle. Does it really make a difference?

 

Although I don't have either of those razors, I do have a few long handle ones.
For me it doesn't make a difference. Long handle, short handle; they both work well and neither one is uncomfortable.
But that's me.

 

I really like the barberpole handles, they're probably my favorite type of handle, the extra heft allows your hand to steady the razor easily in my findings; the 39C is my favorite razor.

 

I thought they were a little weighty for my tastes.

My tastes don't matter. If you think you might like one, give it a shot. It's the only way you will definitively know if you like it or not.

 

Good answer.

 

Michael,

Maybe the question could be answered using a reverse method. Do you have two razors with one being a short handle and the other a longer handle. If you do, find out which one fits your hand better. That can provide a clue as to which handle you might prefer. It is not a sure thing since weight and balance are also important.

Hope that helps.

 

The good news is whichever one you get....ITs bound to shave better than your Avatar...LOL!!

 

I've read that the 39C is a little more aggressive due to it being heavier but the 37C is more maneuverable. Here are some specifications to help you decide. All measurements are approximate.

37C

• Handle Length: 75.86 mm
• Total Length: 81.71 mm
• Handle Thickness: 11.67 mm
• Weight: 75.4 g

39C

• Handle Length: 95.27 mm
• Total Length: 100.74 mm
• Handle Thickness: 11.56 mm
• Weight: 111.8 g

 

I have the 37. It is awesome. The one thing I noticed, there is very little clearance between the blade and the safety bar. Less than my HD. I had to relearn blade angle. But it gave me the closest shave of my life.

 

I love my 37.

 

Have a 39C . Enjoy using it, thought that it was a 'big' razor until I bought my Merkur Futur. It doesn't seem that big any longer. I'd buy the 39C again.

 

I'm starting to get interested to try the 37C. I have a 38C, and the longer handle doesn't necessarily mean that much to me, as my hands are relatively small. The slant aspect is something I really want to experience. Might have to ask for one for my birthday from the wife...

 

I like the precision of a short handle, but I can see why a person would like the reliability of a long handle. Handle preference is very ymmv/personal that way, as many things are.

 

I just ordered a 37C myself

 

Me too. But I do have a vintage Merkur slant. It is way Lighter than the new slants and gives an awesome shave. If you can keep with a zero pressure shave you should be happy with either. But if your like me and apply a little pressure a vintage slant is the only way to go.

 

All of u, enjoy whatever u select. I went with the 37 C as I am just more comfortable with a shorter handle. Both will be winners

 

I would go for the barber pole, on looks alone, but I do have HD34c and it is a nice size and weight (suppose I could swap handles between the two) if I got one

 

Not only is it functional, you're right, it looks cool!

 

Yeah thats class and style right there, If you post pics in the SOS thats the way to go.

 

Just gave my new 37C a test drive. Had a couple days worth of stubble and I loaded it with a Med Prep Personna.

My initial impression is that this razor is nothing to be afraid of. I was probably being a bit too careful which forced me to do an extra pass (thus causing me a little neck burn). However, I can tell that this is indeed a scythe and will be delivering great shaves as I learn to wield it a bit better. It was also my first time trying out a Med Prep Personna, which I liked and will be adding it to my stable of blades.