8 commonly asked questions about safety razors

For men who want a superior shaving experience, safety razors are the best choice. For beginners and infrequent users, here is a quick guide that tells you everything about safety razors and also helps you choose the best one.

What is a safety razor?

• Safety razors have a single handle and head unit.
• The head holds a replaceable blade in place and exposes the blade’s edges on either side of the razor.

What is a double edge safety razor?

• These are the most common type of safety razors.
• When the head of the safety razor locks down, it exposes both the edges of the blade, letting you use either side to shave. So, they are called double-edged razors.
• The terms safety razors and double-edged razors are now interchangeable.

What is the butterfly safety razor?

• Butterfly safety razors are single-piece razors.
• You twist the handle to open the head, place the blade inside, and then turn the handle in the other direction to close it.
• When the head opens up, it resembles the wings of a butterfly. So, it is called the butterfly safety razor.
• There are no removable parts or screws, which makes it easy to use.
• The best brands of butterfly safety razors are Parker 99R Safety Razor and Merkur Futur Adjustable Safety Razor.

What are two-piece and three-piece safety razors?

• In the two-piece razor, the base of the razor head is attached to the handle, but the top of the head can be unscrewed and taken off. You place the blade on the base, and then, screw the top back into place.
• In three-piece razors, you can separate the handle from the head and the top of the head from the base. These razors have removable parts and screws, so you need to be careful while replacing the blade, and while cleaning them.
• However, they are much easier to clean as you can separate the parts and clean them individually.

Should you choose closed comb or open comb razors?

• Open comb razors: The open comb razor head has teeth like a hair comb. These stretch your skin and hold up the hair follicles for a closer shave. Novice users can purchase the Parker 24C Open Comb Razor as it is reputed to be the best razor brand and model. For experienced users, the MÜHLE R41 and the Merkur 1904 Classic are more aggressive options for closer and smoother shaves.
• Closed comb razors: Closed comb razors have a flat base underneath the razor head. These razors are safer and more conservative. If you want to shave your beard, you should opt for an open-comb razor as it cuts deeper into the hair. The best razor brands in the closed comb category include Merkur Heavy Duty Long Handle Barber Pole Safety Razor, the Edwin Jagger DE89Lbl, and the Seke Feather AS-D2.

What is the blade gap?

• The blade gap refers to the distance between the base of the head and the blade. Most safety razors have fixed heads which means that you cannot change the blade gap.
• In adjustable safety razors, you can set the gap to expose more or less of the blade. The more exposed the blade is, the closer the shave.
• The best brands and models for adjustable razors are the Feather Stainless Steel Double-Edge Razor AS-D2S and the Merkur Progress Razor.

Should you choose a long or short handle?

• The general rule is that larger hands need longer handles and vice-versa. However, your comfort level while handling a razor might indicate the opposite.
• Try holding different razor handles in your hand to see which feels the most comfortable.
• While on the subject of handles, choose textured or rough handles or handles with a rubber coating for a better grip. A good grip will ensure a safe shave.

How does the weight of the razor affect the shaving experience?

• Safety razors have metal bodies, and their weight provides a closer shave. Because of the added weight, you don’t need to apply extra pressure.
• Again, the weight you choose depends on your preferences and comfort while shaving.

Make sure to read some online reviews about the best brands of safety razors that promise a great shaving experience. You can begin with a less aggressive safety razor like the closed comb, then explore other options. For beginners, the best shaving razor brands and models are the Merkur MK34C Double-edge Safety Razor, Edwin Jagger DE89 Safety Razor, and the MÜHLE R41 Safety Razor.

References:

https://manlinesskit.com/how-to-choose-the-right-safety-razor/

https://www.asuperiorshave.com/safety-razors/beginners-guide-to-safety-razors/