Using the Merkur 33C

Hello everyone, I am new to wet shaving and DE blades. I recently bought a Merkur 33C and just used it for the first time. I felt the razor had minimal blade exposure and the gap between the comb and blade was very small to the point of not getting a decent cut. I was only able to get a cut when i loosened the razor from the handle, but it not stable at that point. Is this an issue due to the razor itself, or the blade I was using? Or did I just not find the proper angle? I felt I tried different angles and still could not get a cut when the blade was securely tighten, and I didn't want to apply to much pressure either. Any advice would be appreciated, thanks.

 

pics would help
but the angle is probably the issue.
start with the razor head( top cap) touching your face, the roll it downward(or up, depending on the direction of your stroke) till you can hear( feel) the blade cutting.

 

Here is a photo of the razor.

 

That doesn't look like the correct baseplate for the 33c. You might have mismatched pieces. Can you post a picture of the razor disassembled?

 

or from the side?
the base plate looks off

 

I don't have a 33c, is it possible that the baseplate is upside down. Scalloped edges should be up.

 

I agree, I think you have the baseplate upside down.

 

lolz now I feel silly. That should solve my problem. But here is the side pic for extra confirmation. Thanks.

 

Don't feel bad it's a more common mistake than you would believe. Flip it over and get a real shave.

 

Yes, that is definitely upside down. Live and learn.

 

yup upside down.
it is pretty common, that's why I asked for a pic.
lesson learned, I'm sure your next shave will be better. I'm a little surprised you got through a whole shave with that like that.

 

That's what we call a very mild razor I'm sure you will like the more aggressive side of the base plate. Welcome and have fun!

 

Yes , its upside down. It should shave similar to the 34c

 

More than a few of us have made this "mistake".
Whistles quietly to himself.

 

Yup, flip that baseplate and you'll have a shave filled with happiness

 

The 33c will serve you well. It was my first de razor. When you find the right blade, that is good for your beard type, your shaves will be great. Just remember to use a little touch, learn your beards grain pattern, and enjoy. Don't sacrifice your face trying to get that bbs shave. It will come with time. I would rather have a little stubble than a raw face.

 

I guess that's why a picture is worth a thousand words! A common mistake. My first thought at seeing the pic was the blade was entirely too close and to flat to the base plate. Never having used a 33C I was going to suggest shimming it. I'm sure your future shaves will be MUCH improved.

 

Don't give it a second thought. When I gave my son his first DE (Merkur 180), he shaved for a week with the base plate reversed.