What are some pros and cons of the single edge razors? Such as blade availability, angle, learning curve, etc. I see most of you love them and I'd like to know some reasons why, if y'all would oblige
Depends what you mean by single edge. If you mean an injector type, then it's as close to cart shaving as you can get with traditional razors and a fixed head. Similar to a single-blade Bic disposable, for ex. If you mean a GEM style single edge, then there is a definite learning curve, but all the skills transfer over. They can be more aggressive and/or give a closer shave than a DE, but YMMV. You may wish to see here for some tips. Blades are reasonably available for both types, though much fewer varieties now being made.
That link was very helpful! Can you suggest a SE gem style razor that can be forgiving, or that you would recommend for beginners?
Pros: close shave; affordable models can be found regularly, vintage-vibe Cons: the learning curve, the size (if you like large handles, these aren't for you)
I'm glad that helps. The more recent (relatively speaking) GEMs are more mild than the older ones. So, look for a feather weight or a push button which are among the last of the models.
Pros: *Cheaper razors- they haven't fallen victim to a fad. Yet anyways. *Blades last much longer (though more expensive than DE blades). *Built-in blade angle *Small angle cuts not scrapes *More robust than a DE TTO- The Micromatic (which is an SE TTO) was actually advertised as "guaranteed unbreakable." No flimsy little parts like a Super Speed. Also there are unplated brass razors which can be polished to look as good as new forever. *No need to disassemble to load a blade *No blade flex (the blade is much thicken than a DE blade)- maximum blade exposure is possible due to this. Cons: *Only two choices of blades- Stainless steel or carbon. *Lack of maneuverability- large head size I love them. IMO they are superior to DE razors in every way except maneuverability. In fact I don't even own a single DE anymore. They are that good. My DE shaves where pretty tuggy as I have a very tough beard. Sure I could use a more aggressive DE but at the cost of my skin. SEs have a small angle so they cut not scrape and so I can use any SE and it won't tug. Here is a picture of the "correct" cutting angle on a DE from the B and B wiki: As you can see the angle is very Large. No wonder DEs tugged me when they're not even cutting hair just scraping it off along with lots of skin. Also due to the lack of blade flex I can use an aggressive SE comfortably. Don't be intimidated by aggressive SEs. They are not equivalent to aggressive DEs- they are a completely different beast. I started SE shaving with the Ever Ready 1924- one of the most aggressive SEs that exist and I had no problems. Though I will second Richgem's recommendations. The last SEs are the mildest and least intimidating to use for a newbie. I just started with the '24 because I was unaware of it's reputation. Really, you can't go wrong with any though. I don't think there's much of a learning curve. If anything I think they're easier to use than a DE due to the built in blade angle (flat against the face). Though I may be biased due to me being a former relatively experienced DE wet shaver. I find the greatest aspect of a learning curve is shaving with the curves of your face. An SE requires a precise angle in which to cut, thus when learning you will have some patches of hair around curvy areas of your face mainly the jawline. So if you shave your legs, a DE would probably be more to your liking.
I get the best shaves from the SE razors, be it the standard SE blade GEM types, or the Schick injectors. Better than any of my dozen or so DE razors. I favor my 1912 GEM, and my Type "J" Schick, but I'm happy with all my GEM and Schick models. Pro"s... SE razors cost less most times. More shaves per blade. Darn fine shaves. User friendly. Con's... Two blade types. Harder to find blades locally. There are threads on how to make adaptor blades for using DE blade halfs in the GEM razors, but I have yet to try that out... not interested at this time.
While I have a few excellent DE razors that shave wonderfully (Tradere SB, Gillette New,Old Type) , I don't recall when was the last time I used them, I hold on to them for sentiments mainly. When I have the time i'd go for a straight razor but usually I don't so it's the SE. The SE blade does not flex and the feel is more of the direction of a straight razor, IMO anyway. Some of the SE razors are works of art, like the lather catchers, and it adds to the already great shave experience. Also, there is no marketing bs here. Except for one model that was deliberately over discussed to a point of comical hype, most SE razors are abundant, cheap,and being built like tanks will most likely last for another century or two.
