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Thread: Inexpensive first DE razor?

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    Default Inexpensive first DE razor?

    Hi all,

    I've decided to start with an inexpensive DE razor, then eventually move up to a straight if I get as hooked as I expect to be.

    I've been prowling around the forums and google, and I think I've found two options that seem to be a pretty good values in the $10-15 range - a Lord L6 and a Concord A2001.

    Both seem rated highly enough and I've seen positive reviews of both here and there, but I was curious if folks had any experience with either or thoughts on which might be better for a starter? I'm planning on getting either Feather or Astra blades to use with them.

    Thanks a lot.

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    Member Galhatz's Avatar
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    Lord L6 with Astra would be an excellent choice.
    I found Feathers to be too harsh for me as a beginner. Btw, the Lord blade that comes with the razor is also very good (i liked enough to buy a 100 pack). Its milder than Astra, which is good for a beginner.
    Concords are made in China, since the Cadmium in toys issue, i dont use Chinese products where they can come in contact with the bloodstream.
    CraigC likes this.

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    Incidere in dimidium Cangooner's Avatar
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    I have bought a couple of vintage DEs in the last little while from Etsy as well as a couple from ebay. I too was looking for an inexpensive option to compliment the straights when travelling or in a rush, etc., and my rationale for going vintage was that I figured that the quality of a good used vintage DE razor would be superior to a cheaply made modern one. I see them from time to time in antique stores too.

    Oh man, I've just realized that I've outed myself as now having DE RAD to go along with the Straight Razor RAD... This is how it starts: I wanted one and now have five!

    Anyway, just thought I'd mention the vintage option. Happy hunting!

    It was in original condition, faded red, well-worn, but nice.
    This was and still is my favorite combination; beautiful, original, and worn.
    -Neil Young

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    Hirlau (01-08-2013)

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    Senior Member blabbermouth Hirlau's Avatar
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    Any vintage Gillette DE found here or on Ebay, or from one of our member vendors.
    I would not own one of the two that you linked ; just my thoughts.

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    Greaves is my friend !!! gooser's Avatar
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    i just picked up 2 DE razors of ebay ..
    one is a Gillette super speed i think i paid around $10 and it is like MINT
    the other is a Gillette slim adjustable that should be here in couple days that looks good in the pics at least ..

    i read endless threads on here about DE razors before i even started to look and a thing that stood out to me about the more vintage razors vs. a new low end , was someone said this !! " do you want a razor that is of quality that is gonna last a long time and possibly something to be passed on ?? or do you want one thats gonna last not as long with lower quality ?? i dont know enough about to stand by this statement but it sure makes sense to me to buy a good razor made when things were made to last ...
    im very happy with my choice to go vintage and this super speed (twist to open ) is cool to watch the doors open up to change blades , i cant put it down or stop playing with it ..lol... im gonna try it tonight and see what happens

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    "Inexpensive" is obviously relative to the buyer. In the $10-15 range I wouldn't expect much in the way of craftsmanship, and functionality could be marginal too. For an extra $10-20 you could buy a Parker or Merkur, and you'd likely be better off for it.

    Many will recommend a vintage Gillette, but then you're at the mercy of ebay - availability and condition will become factors. Pricing will certainly vary as well, depending on the model.

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    Senior Member JoeLowett's Avatar
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    IMHO i think those depicted here are good DE starters to the right is a barbasol open comb and to the left is a Gillette 'new' I would suggest a new because ther are so many, they are reasonably priced and give a great, iritation free (skill providing) close shave, Well close for a DE that is.
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    Senior Member blabbermouth Hirlau's Avatar
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    Quote Originally Posted by Ryan82 View Post
    "Inexpensive" is obviously relative to the buyer. In the $10-15 range I wouldn't expect much in the way of craftsmanship, and functionality could be marginal too. For an extra $10-20 you could buy a Parker or Merkur, and you'd likely be better off for it.

    Many will recommend a vintage Gillette, but then you're at the mercy of ebay - availability and condition will become factors. Pricing will certainly vary as well, depending on the model.
    Absolutely, you run that risk with Ebay, gotta study the seller & photos.
    I have been lucky the past 3 months.

    When my mad money comes, I'm going to buy a fancy Merkur, just so I can be the first owner
    gooser likes this.

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    Member Galhatz's Avatar
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    after a dozen or so vintage gillettes on ebay my advice is unless the pictures are crystal clear don't bother. also, ebay is a seller's heaven, not buyer's. auctions tend to end at inflated prices. you will get a better price on the b/s/t forums on badgerandblade / shavenook.

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    Incidere in dimidium Cangooner's Avatar
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    Quote Originally Posted by Hirlau View Post

    When my mad money comes...
    You're waiting for that too, eh?
    Hirlau likes this.

    It was in original condition, faded red, well-worn, but nice.
    This was and still is my favorite combination; beautiful, original, and worn.
    -Neil Young

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