Thanks to everyone for the feedback on the 34c vs de89, plus the other good vintage recommendations. With such a spread in opinions, and the affordability of the new razors- I went with one of each! I have been using the Merkur for about a week and a half, and think it is pretty great. Today the Edwin Jagger came in the mail and I got to take it for its first shave. My initial impression, using the same Derby blades, is that the EJ is a bit more aggressive- It's like I can actually feel it cutting, whereas with the Merkur, it is more of a slick glide. The EJ seems to chomp more off in the first pass, which I like the feel of- I also like the lined handle option better than the knurled one on the 34c. The chrome on the de89 is pretty remarkable. It is a rich thick looking finish, and very thoroughly covered. The Murker is not quite as luxurious feeling/looking. As of now though, I can't say one did a better job than the other, and think either is a good choice. If pressed, the de89 has the edge in my opinion.
You might want to get a blade sampler. I don't like Derby's in either razor but did find I like different blades in the EJ than the Merkur. YMMV
I do have a sampler with these blades: 7 Sample PACKS of 35 Blades These are brand NEW Double Edge Razor Blades 5 FEATHER Hi-Stainless (Japan) 5 Gillette Platinum (Russia) 5 DERBY (Turkey) 5 ASTRA Superior Platinum (Russia) 5 7 O'clock Super Stainless (Russia) 5 Silver Blue (Russia) 5 SHARK Super Chrome (Egypt) I have only tried derby and Astra, as I didn't want to add too many variables, especially since my technique will be so variable early on. Do you have any razor blade pairing recommendations for what I've got here? Thanks
Well folks, I just placed orders for what will be a huge haul for me- maybe huge on by any account for all I know- 4 artisan soap makers- and lots of stuff! I was fortunate enough to get in on the box tour, and realized that my meager den would hardly allow me to make the most of the exercise; so I felt it is the right thing to do- to bolster my holdings so that I can comfortably take from, and more importantly- give back. The idea of the box tour is so beautiful- to get to enjoy some good camaraderie, while expanding your exposure to a variety of materials related to the craft. I truly look forward to someday being able to PIF the same as those who have come before. You all have shown yourselves to be a pretty generous gang, cheers!
