Quote Originally Posted by lawman View Post
I don't shave every day but, when I do, I demand a close, comfortable shave. I have a rotation of three SRs that do that for me very nicely but I'm interested in/curious about adding a DE to my rotation. I've read just enough to be thoroughly confused by all of the comments regarding open vs. closed comb DEs and DEs that are "agressive." The only thing that I'm certain of is that everyone who comments on the Merkur 34 seems to love it.

I would appreciate help on two issues. Knowing that these issues have probably already been addressed elsewhere in an earlier thread that I didn't see, feel free to point me to the thread(s) as opposed to reinventing the wheel.

1. Given my expectations of a razor as noted above and my experience with wet shaving, is the Merkur 34 a good place for me to start? If not, please comment accordingly.

2. Please point me in the right direction with regards to blades. From my reading of the forums, it appears that, even with a good DE, shaving results vary widely with the variety of blades available. Where should I start?


Thanks in advance.
The Merkur 34C is a fine razor. As to a blade you will just need to experiment to find what suits your skin and technique. A mixed starter pack is a great place to start. Again its a trial and error process.

I prefer a Merkur Progress as even the blade you previously disliked can be dialled in to give a good close shave. Personally I like 7 o' clocks and I would start on a higher setting for a wtg then drop the aggressiveness down on the further two xtg and atg passes. This gives a close but comfortable shave.

I think the only difference you will notice is that the DE will cut the top off and blemishes you have, where as the straight is kinder as its more flexible in this respect. it also doesn't really require any skill either, any one can use a DE.

Another issue is we think we can shave quicker with a DE but if you want a close, nick and irritation free shave It's just not true if your experienced at with a straight and a DE.

Happy hunting