Thread: The ultimate Safety razor

I started out with a Mercur Vision and didn't like it. Then I used the 38c and thought it was mediocre. Then I used a Gillette Fat Boy and thought it was great. Now I use an EJ Barleycorn and think it's perfect. But a straight is still better.

Originally Posted by Rafal

Hi All,

What would you say is the ultimate safety razor from the stand point of design, quality, performance...

CHeers,

Rafal

The GEM 1912 single edge safety razor with Ted Pella blades. The best safety razor, EVER.

My 1940s gillette super speed was a close second.

I would go with a vintage Gillette Fatboy or a Mercur HD depending on whether you want vintage or new. The Fatboy is 50 years old and in great shape. Not only that, it adjusts depending on what kind of shave you want. I also have a 48-49 Superspeed, but find it too mild for me.

That is a question who can be answered in a million different ways, it all depends on who you ask.
I only have 6 of them, so I am in no means an expert.
What I do have is few old and a couple of new ones.
My favourite right now is a Merkur Vision, followed by an old Gillette SS

This is something only you can answer. For me, I have tried a futur, mergress, slant, vintage superspeeds, techs, news, olds, british rockets, fatboy, slim, aristocrats and british aristocrats, gems, and schick injectors. After all that, I have settled on a pedestrian barberpole 38c and red personna blades. I use the same head on a long handled classic living in my dopp kit for travel. Gives me a perfect, irritation-free 4 pass BBS shave everytime.

But I am hearing so many good things about the EJ Barley.

Hi,

The best shaves I have had from safety razors were from:

1) 1930s British Gillette #88 open comb two piece, with Feather blades
2) 1935 Schick-Eversharp SE, with 1970s Schick Platinum blades

Have fun !

regards

Russ

Originally Posted by JimmyHAD

There is no question that the Merkur slant in the standard 37C or long/heavy 39C is the ne plus ultra of those contraptions known as safety razors. Suggested to be used with a Feather blade.

Of my experience I agree 100%

The 1912 Gem Jr. is a beast no doubt but for ultimate safety razor I'd have to give it up to the 1910 Gem Lather Catcher

Originally Posted by 1OldGI

The 1912 Gem Jr. is a beast no doubt but for ultimate safety razor I'd have to give it up to the 1910 Gem Lather Catcher

That is a beautiful razor!

Originally Posted by Rafal

Hi All,

What would you say is the ultimate safety razor from the stand point of design, quality, performance...

CHeers,

Rafal

For safety -- the one Santa Clause uses.