I've got a friend who's wanting to get into wet shaving, so I've lent him a couple of my soaps to get him started. He wants to get a DE, but I've only shaved with straights, so I'm out of my area. He's got a fast growing thick beard, and he doesn't shave every day, so I'm wondering if an open comb like the HTGAM symmetry might work as a first razor for him? Or maybe some other middle of the road OC? Thanks for the help.
I see no reason why it wouldn't be a good choice, if your buying a new razor? A really good one is Edwin Jagger DE89. Also get a blade sample pack.
Thanks Razorburn, most of what I've read about open combs is about the Fatip grande and R41, so I wasn't sure if OC's in general were a little too aggressive for beginners. Good to hear though, I'll let him know.
Both the Fatip & R41 are on the more aggressive side for a beginner. A vintage Gillette OC or a Merkur 1904 is what I'd recommend for a person new to wetshaving.
I started out with an OC. The Merkur 15C. Worked fine after some trial and error I would have had to go through anyway.
If he must have an open comb a vintage Gillette "NEW" LC (LC=long comb/ SC=short comb) or a new Cadet, Maggard or Parker OC are also good choices, I use a vintage "NEW and a Cadet OC.. The LC is considered the milder between the two LC & SC. If he just wants a mild, efficient daily use razor then I would suggest either a vintage Gillette "Fat Handle Tech", a new EJ89 with a lined handle or a Merkur 34C HD. All three are "VERY" good shavers and give or have given me consistent close, irritation free shaves "YMMV". Your friend needs to understand that only actually trying a safety razor can determine positively if it will work with his face and technique. That said the above razors are considered to be on the mild end of the spectrum by most people who have used them.
I started with a Merkur 1904. There's no reason to fear an OC, provide you do your research and respect the razor/blade.
Just because it is an open comb, doesnt mean it is aggressive. I find the Merkur OC razors to be on the mild side.
The Merkur 1904 is IMO the most comfortable best shaving DE I've ever used. And I say that having abandoned DEs for SEs/injectors. I would still use one if it weren't for the slippery handle and if it were made from brass.oh and it is also one of the mildest.
I have a PIF going right now for a Merkur 34C. If you would like to enter on your friends behalf just let me know.
Your friend will do fine! TSD would be an excellent place for him to get advice, and meet our members. Kerry
On the mild end, there's the Gillette New, a Merkur 1904, or a Parker 24/26c. If wanting something in the middle, then the Cadet OC/RR Jaws. If a little more, then the Fatip, but for the most, the R41.
Thanks for all the info, I'll pass it on to him. I'll see if he wants in on that PIF, Beardface, good of you to offer. This is a great place for new wet shavers, I'll be sure to let him know about it.
