Looking for help

[Cove5440]

I have a friend that's helped out a lot recently. I'd like to get him something, and I've decided on a DE because he used to shave with one, but moved on to the Mach 3 a number of years ago because he didn't want to keep searching for blades all the time. He has very large hands. I'm 6'5" and I thought I had rather large hands. He's Italian and wears a number of rings. The ring that he wears on his pinkie finger fits on my thumb. Anyway, I'm wondering if I should base my purchase on that or just get him a good DE. I was originally going to get him the EJ 89 with the ebony handle. Relatively speaking, money isn't the concern, it's the actual razor. Would a Merkur 38C be better? I'll be honest, I've never tried the EJ, but it gets so many good reviews that I thought that would be a good start for him, as it's a little milder than the Merkur, at least that's my understanding.

Any and all suggestions are welcome!

Thanks for all the comments before hand!

[Obie]

I would recommend the Edwin Jagger for your friend. Oh, the Merkur 38C is a handsome razor and a fine shaver. It might be a touch heavy for him, though. That's why I suggest the Edwin Jagger. The one in the black handle, in the newest version of the Edwin Jagger 89 series, is octagonal. It's a handsome razor. Also, I still think the Edwin Jagger's shave is slightly silkier than that that from the Merkur.

On the other hand, if he has big hands and can handle the weight of the Merkur 38C, I suggest going with that. The Edwin Jagger is relatively short, and the razor is much lighter. So, under the circumstances, which way to go? Under the circumstances, I suggest, then, to go with the Merkur 38C.

[Cove5440]

Thank you Obie! I was hoping you'd comment. The 38C was actually the razor I started on. Hard to believe that was about 6 - 7 years ago. I thought of that razor, but I wasn't sure between the two. The slightly better shave with the EJ or the size of the Merkur.

Seriously, this guys hands look like slabs of meat next to mine. I almost look like I have a woman's hand. LOL He helped me move a few years ago and picked up a 200+ lb television all by himself. (A JVC iArt 36")

[Obie]

You are very welcome, my friend, and thank you.

The Edwin Jagger will not give you a better shave. No, of course, not, as the Merkur 38C is a superb shaver. The Edwin Jagger is slightly milder and the shave silkier. That's the best way for me to compare the two. I have used both of these razors. For my small hands, the Edwin Jagger works better. For your friend, I am convinced he will find the Merkur 38C better suited for him.

On the other hand, for a much higher price, you can go with the Edwin Jagger "Chatsworth" barley in the lined version. That is a gorgeous razor, hefty, and with ample weight and length. He'll probably fall in love with that razor instantly.

The other choice for a stunning razor, big and heavy, would be the Edwin Jagger lined Bulbous. That is an exquisite razor in every way.

[pinklather]

If you were to find out what blade he likes, perhaps a bulk supply of them.

[Sargon]

They're both great razors. The EJ is a little milder is the biggest difference ( besides styling, of course). If your friend has a thick, unruly beard, you might lean towards the more aggressive 38c, whereas if he has sensitive skin and a lighter beard, the EJ is likely to be a little better.

[mapleleafalumnus]

"Candlesticks always make a nice gift. Maybe find out where he's registered and find a nice place setting."
-Bull Durham

[mapleleafalumnus]

"Candlesticks always make a nice gift. Maybe find out where he's registered and find a nice place setting."
-Bull Durham

Sorry, I couldn't resist! Mea culpa and apologies.

[Castel33]

I am with pink buying him a very large supply of DE blades might be the best way to go if he only gave up DE shaving because he couldn't find blades. Likely he still has his old DE laying around. If he doesn't you could always lend him one and point him in the right direction to get a new one.