DE help me choose

[JamieM]

Hi, everyone, I need your input on choosing a new DE razor. 98 per cent of the time, I shave with a straight razor, but on the odd occasion, I do use a DE and SE razor. My blade of choice has always been the Feather in both DE and SE; these blades agree with me and also seem to deliver a smooth, close, comfortable shave. I own only one DE and one SE razor; for many decades, I have used the Merkur 34C HD and a Blackland Vector with a Lite base plate. I love the way both these razors shave; I would like a Stainless Steel DE razor. I don't like open-comb razors. OK, let me know your thoughts and what I should be looking at. PS. I once owned a Feather AS D2, which I thought was a fine razor and always delivered a very good shave.

 

[SoapSpoonAndy]

I love my Blackland Blackbird. Standard plate, closed comb - the "safety bar", stainless steel. It's going to last forever, looks cool, and it works great. I run it primarily with Astra Greens (easy and safe), GEM Personnas and Feathers (where technique is increasingly more important).

 

[Sm29]

Another vote for the Blackbird. I have a Ti that I use daily at home and a SS in my travel kit. I’m a daily three pass shaver.

 

[p.b]

I love my Blackbird too but isn’t it a big step up in blade feel over a 34HD? Maybe the lite plate is a better match?

@JamieM are you only interested in a premium razor or would a Yaqi / DS stainless steel on also work?

 

[JamieM]

Without doing any research, I did think this razor would feature high on the list. OK, there seems to be a lot of love for the Blackland Blackbird. I like the overall look and design of the razor; now let me have your opinions on your preferred materials and finish. Satin or polished, Stainless steel or Titanium? Long handle or standard?

 

[Randy]

Jamie, I always don't suggest easily razors to other people because everyone is different but I will make an exception:

Freyja Razor with the efficient or standard base plate. Effective, comfortable and a piece of art. Spiral handle for me if you decide to get one.

 

[Randy]

I love my Blackbird too but isn’t it a big step up in blade feel over a 34HD? Maybe the lite plate is a better match?

@JamieM are you only interested in a premium razor or would a Yaqi / DS stainless steel on also work?

I couldn't imagine a man with Jamie's taste using a Yaqi razor or a DS.

 

[Twelvefret]

I notice Blackbirds often listed as SOTD.