From left to right: random Chinese razor that I got from my local shaving store (+ Asco Super Stainless blades), Mühle R89 (+ Lord Platinum blades) + Henson Mild (v1 + Astra Superior Platinums).
The Chinese razor is a bit more aggressive than the Mühle. I use the Henson the most, but would love to try out a Medium one. I don’t use the Astra’s too much, they feel kinda harsh. Ascos and Lords are both made by the same company (Lord), and are pretty much identical, although the Lords are marketed as a bit sharper.
SOTDs to follow soon (tho I don’t have much gear, I’m a simple man).
Great looking razors, Definitly interested in that henson. What’s your thoughts on the Muhle R89?
As far as gear goes, I’m in the same boat, I have two razors and use the same soap and blades. I however did try my “other” razor today (being inspired by your post today). It’s amazing how much more aggressive it is than my vintage gillette. It’s a cheapo Viking Blades “Chieftan”. I do really like the butterfly design though. My shave is definitely much closer and I bled a little (I never even knick myself with my gillette). So, might play around with it for a day or two. My gillette tech 38-45 is so easy.
Thanks!
The Henson (original, V1) I got in a sale for the equivalent of $ 70. It’s a good razor. I’ve shaved a 3-4 day stubble with it, although it did take 2-3 passes. Some say it’s too mild, but I find that it really compensates for the shit technique I sometimes have. Still, I’ve had practically zero nicks. They also sell a Medium version of the Henson which people find more efficient. I’ve modified my Mild by loosening the handle ever so slightly, which makes it more aggressive, but since I do it by hand the aggressiveness is not consistent. A Henson V2 came out which has those larger draining cutouts in the baseplate and a top cap with rounded corners. If you want to get the razor, I’d just wait for a sale.
The Mühle R89 is quite a bit heavier, which means that you really do not have to apply pressure. But I’m not sure that it’s more aggressive than the Henson. Sometimes I miss some spots on my neck with it, because it feels somehow less maneuverable than the Henson. But to be fair, I haven’t shaved a lot with the Mühle – I’ve had it for less than a year. I know Double Y on Youtube has done quite a few videos with the R89. From what I gather, it’s a beginner-friendly razor, on account of being rather mild.
That Gillette Tech looks nice! I’ve never used a real vintage razor. I don’t live in the US so I really haven’t come across vintage razors. I know you find a good deal, but wouldn’t want to risk being scammed. Where’d you get your Gillette from?
