Just got mine today in the mail. Had to use a new blade after another failed stropping attempt. Nice gentle razor. I'm not used to such a heavy razor but I know I will get used to it quickly. I got the black handle one which I did find a tad slippery when wet. This razor is a work of art and just oozes class. I am very happy with this purchase.
EJ 89L I've had mine for about 3 weeks. The finish, balance are superb. Every shave has been a great one. Definitely a top notch tool. Can't beat the price, picked mine up for $28.00 @ http://www.qedusa.com/razors-blades-c-22.html?osCsid=03288e4c6c8f3591b8b88c5b1b254d4a
I have the Muhle R89 with the knurled handle, and I think it's definitely milder then my HD. I've examined the heads closely and the blade exposure, gap and angle on the R89 are all less than the HD, it's quite obvious even to naked eye. I find the HD requires more attention to blade angle. The R89 has taken over the HD's crown, for me. I get superb shaves with it, with very little to no irritation. John
I came to the same conclusion. I started with a HD. I love the loading mechanism and it's a good razor. I did get good shaves with it, but when I used the Muhle R89 I was blown away by the smoothness of the shave! I used it with a Super Iridium blade and it is a perfect combination for me. Hell, I've had a shaved with the R89 and SI this morning and I feel great! It is my to go razor now! I couldn't get a good shave with the HD. It requires more attention to the blade angle. It's ok, but not as smooth and easy as the R89 is.
I'm loving it too! Of course it's the only DE I've used so far aside from a Tech. I like the weight; a good deal heavier than my Tech, which allows me to really let the razor do the work on those N-S strokes. Just curious, what does it mean to "seat" a soap?
I was planning on going with the Merkur 34C, but after what I've been hearing about this EJ De89L I'm really considering going with it. Especially after hearing this post. I'm going to be new to DE shaving and am looking for a first razor. I may have found it here.
I first bought the Merkur HD. I then bought the Muhle R89 and I love it over the HD. I would recommend the EJ since it is so similar with the R89!
Love mine,been useing it awhile now with feathers.For a few bucks more I would get the Muhle with the better grip handle if I could do it over.
Which is less aggressive? EJ DE89L or Gillette Tech? I have a light beard and need a mild, forgiving shaver. Plus I am a noob at DE shaving. I am planning to get a Gillette Tech but I'd also like to get a new DE shaver. How aggressive is the EJ DE89L compared to the Tech or Super Speed? Thanks.
I too have a light beard. As a beginner, I've purchased and tried a lot of old Gillettes in the last 4 months. IHMO, a fat handled tech or the even milder blue tip superspeed are excellent. I love them both. I purchased an EJ89L 2 weeks ago. The EJ is a bit more aggressive but it is VERY forgiving as well. It is a truly AMAZING razor. BTW, Best Grooming & Shaving Tools included a "free" 3 pack selection of blades with my EJ89L purchase. Kind of fun...
Well, since my original post, I have purchased these razors: Gillette Tech - this is too mild for me. When I use it, it is as if nothing has cut my beard. Gillette Slim Adjustable - I have yet to try it, as it just arrived. Merkur 23C Long Handle - It has not yet arrived/ The EJ DE89L is on my list for the future, depending on how the Slim Adjustable and 23C work out.
What blades are you using? Even though the Tech is a mild shaver, you should still be able to get a DFS-BBS with the proper technique, it may just require an extra pass or extended touch-up.
Red Personna - Israel. I kept the blade at a 30 degree angle to my face and followed the same technique as shown in the learning videos. I did four passes and still, nothing.