Which DE for two different purposes?

Hello, gentlemen! As many of you know I am newer to the world of straights and am really enjoying myself, but I need some opinions on DE's.

Purpose #1
I would like to buy my fosterson a DE for his 16th birthday in a couple of months. He still has a baby face right now, but I plan to teach him how to shave properly and would like to start him out on DE's. I don't want to invest a great deal of money in one to start just in case he hates it or he's irresponsible with it (I'd go for the former instead of the latter). I'm looking at the Merkur Classic, but would love feedback from the DE users here.

Purpose #2
I'd also like to purchase a DE for one of my friends (female) who loves the closeness of a straight razor shave but is not inclined to learn to use one. Obviously, this razor will be used for legs and other body hair. I've read that the Classic is also great for this application too. Again, I would love for some experienced advice.

Thank you all.

Respectfully,
Viola

The Merkur HD Classic is a great razor. It's a quality product that will last a lifetime.

I usually feed mine Derby blades. I buy them from this guy on eBay.. I don't care for the Merkur blades that much. Feather blades are great, but they carry the normal Feather "sharpest blade in the world" clause, and might be a little too sharp when folks are starting out.

You could try a Weishi razor.They are very mild razor's and tame even the sharpest blades.They are cheap also.Cheers Phil.:)

I'll certainly check out the Weishi, especially for my son. Regarding the Merkur for a lady: If I were going to purchase the HD Barber Pole, would it be worth the extra $15 to go ahead and get the Futur?

No, do not get the Futur... it is too heavy and will cut close... too close. Even the barber pole is a bit overweight in my opinion but then it's my opinion and not anyone elses. I've had all the Merkurs and I feel that the HD is about the best balanced of the bunch with the Progress a very close second. A long handled classic is also a fine choice.

Regards

Christian

Well, per everyone's advice and research of my own I decided to buy my baby boy the Weishi with some Derby blades. If he gets into it, I'll get him something a little nicer, but for now I think this will do the trick. I also got him a cheaper little Burts Bees Bay Rum starter set for his soap, mug, brush, etc. I figure if I could learn on a cheap set then so can he.

For the ladies gift I went with the Merkur 34C HD Classic. Ok, I have to admit that this thing is going to be in my house and I know I'll be using it when I don't have time for the straight razor, therefore I had to get something I wanted :). I picked up a 100 pack of Derby blades to go with it. This all comes at a time when we are completely out of Venus razor replacement blades and I REFUSE to spend the money on them ANYMORE!

Thank you, gentlemen, for your continued support!

Respectfully,

Lady Viola