I received my R41 a couple days ago and did the first shave with it today. I purchased it off ebay and it came with an aftermarket stainless handle instead of the regular one. I actually quite like the heavier stainless handle. The head is a 2013 model. My go to blades are Astra SPs First Impression: From the first stroke I could tell that this was an aggressive razor. It was aggressive though but not harsh. I took extra care to make sure I had zero pressure and used slow strokes. I can attest to the previously echoed statements on the R41 that it keeps you on your toes and demands respect. With my 52 SuperSpeed I feel that I can whip that around my face as fast as I want and never worry about a nick. The R41 was quite the opposite. It also has a unique blade sound that was different from the vintage Gillettes that I normally shave with. That being said I absolutely loved the razor and feel that it could find its way into the top spot. The R41 probably gave me my closest 2 pass shave I have had without any irritation. I feel that is was a very efficient shaver and required very little touch up. I shave 6-7 days a week and normally only do a 2 pass WTG/ATG shave. Any more that 2 passes daily is too much for my skin. Negatives: The blade was a tad difficult to align initially. The head is so large it almost completely covers the blade tabs which I normally hold when aligning the blade. Similar Razor Comparison: The R41 felt similar to my New Deluxe Criterion or Bostonian which previously felt like my most aggressive razors. Maybe a hair less smooth than my Criterion and a tad more than the Bostonian. Conclusion: I have never tried the 2011 R41 head but the 2013 R41 is a winner in my book. I look forward to getting to know this razor and plan on using it exclusively for the month of November. I'll see if my opinion changes after a month of use but I am confident as I get used to this razor I may actually like it even more.
although the stock handles are very beautiful. almost everyone replaces them. they are a bit slick to hold on to. I like how long into the day shaves last with the r41. (I also have the 2013). the tabs are covered on this razor, some prefer them not to show. I've never had a problem with them. nice review, happy shaves.
I wouldn't say my technique is pretty good. I still feel like I have a lot to learn. I just try and take my time and not rush shaved. Every time I do I pay for it.
I just got mine today....the mhule r41 grande, i like the handle but it does feel slick...whats the best after market handle if im looking for thinner than the grande just as long or longer, not as slick and also nice looking?
Very well done review. I have been considering one for a while and have been reading reviews trying to make up my mind. Yours has helped. Thanks.
Good review. Maggard Razors sells a large number of handles in various lengths, diameters and knurling styles. Their prices seems fair, I bought a MR3 handle from them, and since they sell handles with out the heads you don't have to acquire yet another shave head that you don't want or need.
So I had my second shave with the R41 and had some additional thoughts. Mind you these are my own personal observations and not backed by any science so YMMV. I have been using the same cream, blades, and prep so I don't add in any different variables. I think the R41 tempts you to take a steep angle vs a shallow angle. While my first shave was great, it still felt a tad harsh. For my second shave I elected to try a shallower angle with the razor even though it did not feel as natural as the angle used for my first shave. Although it felt a little different, my second shave was every bit as close but quite a bit smoother than my first. My thoughts are the head design yields itself to a naturally steep angle and I need to be mindful to make sure I back the angle off a bit. I look forward to the next month of strictly using this razor to see how my technique changes to adapt the nuances of the razor. Will keep everyone posted if I find something worth sharing.
Thanks for the heads up...those look nice, i saw some blemished ones for sale wich im considering since theyre so cheap, but i didnt see where i could buy the new handle by itself
Scroll down to "safety razors" in the main menu, click on it and another list will drop down with all of Maggards complete razors, about eight titles down will be the "handle only" title, click on that and a page will come up with pictures ,specks and prices of all the individual handles they sell.
