MERKUR 38B Double Edge Safety Razor - Black Handle | Extra Large Barber Pole Grip Brass Handle | Made in Germany | Plastic-Free | Two Piece Design | Closed Comb | Straight Bar

I upgraded to this razor to one I got in a wet-shaving kit years and years ago (not sure about the manufacturer of that one), and am really happy with the Merkur.The weight of the head makes getting a close shave practically effortless, since you don't need to add any additional pressure to hack off the stubble. I'm not really an expert at identifying how aggressive a razor is, but I would guess that this razor falls on the milder side of the spectrum. I feel like I would have to try to cut/knick myself to draw blood with this razor, yet that comes at no expense to the quality of the shave. Everyone's face is different though, and a lot will depend on the quality of lather & how well-suited the blade is for your own style of shaving. (Personally I use Gillette 7 O'Clocks, Nacets, & Dorco Prime Platinums most often).While I knew that the handle had no knurling when I bought it (which is what I'm used to), I'm certain that some would complain about how slick the handle can be. Personally, I think it's bad judgment to handle & shave with *any* razor while your hands are slippery from soap. I just wipe my hands and the handle off with a towel, and it's fine.Would I buy it again? It's an attractive razor, but I primarily chose this one because my wife has the classic 38C, and I wanted to be able to tell them apart. I can't help but note that I essentially paid more for the aesthetic of the razor, which arguably has (albeit slightly) reduced functionality due to the lack of knurling on the handle. It is quite an enjoyable shave, however, and it's almost a piece of decor unto itself after rinsing and leaving it on a stand.Overall, I recommend this razor to people that have experience with wet-shaving or are used to a smooth handle. If you like it mostly for the aesthetic though, I would probably encourage to wait for it to go on sale.

The quality and finish are perfect. This definitely will be a long lasting purchase. No blade alignment issues. Really attractive razor. This is actually perfect for a beginner new to wet shaving. Perfect to learn and perfect your technique. Definitely worth the price .

Very classy look with good quality construction. The head is heavy enough for me to get a baby bottom smooth shave. Im still trying out my preferred blade. I usually use Wilkinson Sword, but i did try the Merkur platinum that came with it. The platinum blade is a bit too aggressive for my sensitive skin. If u have a long beard the Merkur platinum will remove it quickly with few passes. But the Wilkinson Sword is less aggressive and more forgiving for the very sensitive skin. The DE hd handle length is good for me since my hands are big. The grip is excellent. Use a toothbrush to keep it clean and soap scum free and remember that sometimes the razor blade will rust if u leave it in the base. Its important to clean the threads of head that unscrews from inside the handle, otherwise scum and possibly even rust can depreciate it.Overall this is excellent! after u buy this and learn the correct angle, pressure and find the right blade FOR YOUR FACE, u will never go back to cartridge or electric. Those who are new or want to improve ur skills, check out the Gourmet Shaving book for Kindle. Its very detailed and even explains the products that u need.

An excellent razor for the big man.The long handle enables a solid grip.Plenty of girth for large fingers. Smooth finish, that grips well.German manufacturing at it's finest. I read a ton before choosing this Merkur model 38 HD.These are available in a handful of different finishes. The Black and Chrome looks great.Single screw twists from the bottom of the handle. Releases a single top piece.Insert the razor blade in between the two halves.Accurate and even blade exposure.A full length plastic guard protects the razor's edge.Merkur recommends lubrication of the screw. I use a drop of light oil.Heavyweight design that results in an easy shave.Let the razor do the work.Apply zero pressure. It will glide across the face.I used a Persona, made in Israel blade.Barbasol with Aloe, shaving cream.Baby butt smooth results.Try this traditional safety razor. You may convert and enjoy a close shave!

This is my first safety razor and I've been very satisfied with it. It looks handsome and is very easy to assemble/disassemble. I was concerned that this model does not have the handle serrations of similar all-chrome models, but this ended up being a non issue. This Merkur is very easy to hold and control.After using Mach 3's and other cartridge razors for years, this took some getting used to. I kept nicks to a minimum by following the rule to apply little or no pressure when shaving. In fact, that is definitely something to practice with this razor and it's particularly heavy. Despite it's weight, it feels pretty well balanced. In fact, I feel that it's too well balance and I would have preferred something more top heavy. The handle holds a lot of the weight, due to the fact that the handle is comparably longer than other safety razors.The razor was easy to learn (at least in my case) and after a week or use, I felt comfortable with safety razor shaving. I'm getting shaves much smoother than I ever did with my Mach 3's.

I am sure the razor is fine but safety razors and the art of shaving is just hipster bs. My fusion gives me closer shave and I never cut my face. Maybe if you have time in the mornings the ritual might mean something to you mixing the lather and shaving but I have 2 small kids and time is of the essence.