Thread: Old 'Gem' Razor SE?

Originally Posted by carlmaloschneider

Hi,
I shave mainly with straights, but have a DE for Saturdays (Mühle R 89). I saw a 1910 Gem on SOTD today and liked the look. I found a few Gems on the 'bay, and did a bit of research (but I admit not a lot. I have some questions. I'm sure if Obie is watching he'll have all the answers. Can you buy single edge blades readily? Are they reasonably priced? Other than the nicety of shaving with a razor from 1910 or so, is it actually worth investing the few (20 odd bucks) in getting one?

It's worth it if you are curious. I enjoy using one once in a while. I will add that I'm a little more careful when I use it because I'm more familiar with DE razors. This indulgence isn't going to break the bank, so why not go ahead?

Yeah, I think I will get one sooner or later, but at the moment I've decided to stay on track and get the straight I'm after, a nice Reviser with a Spanish Point. I need to save up for maybe two months to be able to afford it, so I've gotta keep on track

Not to throw gas on the fire but IMHO single edge razors are grossly underrated. On an entirely level playing field, without King Gillette's tons of money and marketing campaigns, I think a single edge of almost any variety will consistently out shave a double edge. I own several of both and while the Fatboy with a fresh blade is a wonderful shave, it still can't touch any of my single edge razors. They are also a far closer simulation of a straight razor shave, nice and aggressive, with a very rigid feel (as opposed to the soft flexible feel of most DE razors.)

Why IS that 1OldGI? I have really only used one DE (two if you include the disastrous attempt with the Army issue one, a Gillette G2000 I think, or similar). The one I have is a Mühle R 89. I understand that open comb razors like the R41 expose more of the blade. I read here today that the actual blade 'sticks out more'. Is this the same as a SE razor? Is the blade more exposed? I know on a DE the blade actually bends in an arc; I guess this is not the case with a SE razor?

Unlike a DE blade, a SE blade has a "spine" of sorts not unlike a straight razor. I would guess that this thick spine probably accounts for the rigidity. SE blades are also much, thicker and yes, more blade is exposed in a SE razor.

Oh, OK, thanks...