Reddit reviews Double Edge Safety Razor Blade Variety Sampler Pack, 100 Blades Compatible with All Standard Double Edge Safety Razors - Includes Blades from Crystal, Astra, Shark, Sharp, Voskhod, 7am

When I shave with my electric razor, it takes like 90 secs tops, and I've legit never replaced any of its parts (and I've had it for probably 2-3 years at this point). And I know I've already recommended safety razors before, but allow me to point something else out: cartridge razors (i.e. multi-blade things you typically buy in packs of 4) are A LOT more expensive than safety razor blades and they don't last that much longer. You can buy a pack of 100 blades for $16. It takes a little bit of time to learn the proper technique so you don't cut yourself, but it tends to produce better results in the end. Plus, the handles are really nice (hefty, solid metal, shiny).

and and a pack of 100 safety razors costs about the same as 5 pack of Gillette blades.

Hijacking comment. Some people experience different things with different blades. Find one of the variety packs and discover which blades you prefer.

I personally really like the Sharp and Astra blades.

Basic Kit - under $50:
Razor: $10.99
Brush: $10.69
Soap - $3.59
Blade Sampler - $22.99
Nivea shave balm for sensitive skin - $5 at walmart

Cartridge Razor

• Probably the most common razor type nowadays. They'll get the job done and you'll get a decent shave too.
  
  
• The Gillette Mach 3 (three blades), the Gillette Fusion (five blades) and the Wilkinson Sword Quattro (four blades) are probably the most common cartridge razors. They are widely available.
  
  
• You may also see some variations on the above razors. For example, the Fusion ProGlide Power is a battery-operated Fusion that vibrates, and is supposed to help the hair stand on end for a better shave. Some like it, some don't. Your call.
  
  Advantages
  
  

1. Technique matters less with this type of razor because most of them have a pivoting head that runs along the contours of your face. This reduces the chance of you getting the angle wrong and cutting yourself.
   
   
2. Supplies for this type of razor are readily available pretty much anywhere.
   
   Disadvantages
   
   
3. The replacement cartridges are extremely expensive for what they actually are. Gillette's (and other manufacturers') business model is to sell the handle for cheap and charge a fortune for the blades because you've already made the investment in the handle.
   
   
4. The cartridges tend to cut and tug your hair out. This can irritate those with particularly sensitive skin and many people get razor bumps when using these. As a general rule, the more blades a cartridge has, the more likely you'll have this tugging effect. If you don't have sensitive skin, then it should be fine.
   
   
5. These cartridge razors tend to get clogged with hair easily. The problem appears to be worse as the number of blades increases, ergo, the five blade Fusion will clog more easily than the three blade Mach 3.
   
   Technique
   
   

• Most people tend to use foam or gel with this type of razor.
  
  
• A WTG pass will suffice but go ATG too if you can (see "Passes" section below).
  
  
  *
  
  
  Double Edge (DE) Safety Razor**
  
  
• They look like this!
  
  
• Typically range from $20 to $60. I recommend the Merkur 38C as a good beginner's razor. Other reputable brands include Parker and Edwin Jagger. Weishi aren't bad either.
  
  
• These handles can (and often do) last you for life. You can also find them in antique shops if you look hard enough.
  
  Advantages
  
  

1. Blades for these razors are obscenely cheap in comparison to cartridge razors. In the UK, I can buy a 100 pack of Astra blades (my favourite brand) for about £9 on Amazon. That could easily last me a year of shaving on a near-daily basis.
   
   
2. The closeness of a DE shave is unbeatable IMO.
   
   
3. Your blades won't clog up with hair.
   
   
4. There is a certain enjoyment in mastering the art of a DE shave. This cannot be explained - only experienced.
   
   Disadvantages
   
   
5. A DE razor does not typically have a pivoting head like cartridge razors. That means you have to learn the proper technique or you're going to get a few nicks.
   
   
6. There is a little bit of a learning curve. It's nothing most people can't handle. However, if you're impatient or clumsy, DE might not be for you.
   
   
   Technique
   
   

• Hold the razor so it's comfortable, but keep your hand away from the face and more towards the end of the handle. You'll have better control over your wrist and the blade angle.
  
  
• Use minimal pressure. Let the blade do the work for you.
  
  
• Your first pass should be WTG. Your second pass should be XTG. Your third pass should be ATG (see "Passes" section below).
  
  
• Make sure the bathroom is nice and quiet. Listen for the blades cutting the hair so you'll know your perfect angle. It'll eventually be second nature.
  
  
• If you use a DE razor, you could use foam or gel, but the preferred method for most of us is to buy a shaving brush and some shaving soap or a shaving stick. Then you can use this to make lather. This video is a great guide on how to make lather.
  
  
• Since nicks are a bit more likely (especially in the early days) it's worth you buying a styptic pencil or alum block to seal up your cuts. An alum block is also good for soothing razor burn and also has antiseptic properties.
  
  *
  
  Electric Razor**
  
  
• No introductions necessary.
  
  Advantages
  
  

1. Pretty quick.
   
   
2. Can be used on dry skin. No need for shaving soap/foam/gel.
   
   
3. Your odds of cutting yourself are pretty damn slim!
   
   Disadvantages
   
   
4. Shave quality is severely reduced. You will never get as close a shave with one of these as you will with a cartridge razor or a DE razor.
   
   
5. Can be pretty harsh on sensitive skin. Try a pre-shave oil to see if this helps.
   
   
6. Requires either a power socket or battery power.
   
   Technique
   
   

• Oh, come on!
  
  
  
  Preparing the Face
  
  This differs for everyone. Make of it what you will. The general idea is just to get the face moisturised and the hair nice and soft.
  
  I tend to exfoliate my face with an exfoliating scrub, then rinse and apply a pre-shave oil or cream - I use this.
  
  
  
  Applying Shaving Lubricant
  
  This doesn't apply to electric razor users. You guys don't need it.
  
  If you're using a gel or foam, just apply it to the face.
  
  If you're using a shave soap and brush combination, your technique is a bit more important (but totally worth it):
  
  

1. Grab a mug, bowl, or some other vessel.
   
   
2. Wet your shaving brush with (preferably warm) water.
   
   
3. Either apply some soap to the end of the wet brush or put some soap in the mug.
   
   
4. Swirl that brush around in the soap.
   
   
5. Results will vary depending on the soap you're using; the quality of the brush; the softness, temperature and amount of water. If it's not really "whipping" up, consider adding a little more water.
   
   
6. Apply to face at desired consistency.
   
   If you're still having trouble, this is a good video on how to make lather.
   
   *
   
   Passes**
   
   There are three directions you can shave in. Shaving in a specific direction is known as a pass:
   
   

• With the grain (WTG) - shaving in the same direction as the hair grows. You could get away with doing just this. The shave will be socially acceptable, but it won't feel like a great shave.
  
  
• Against the grain (ATG) - shaving in the opposite direction of hair growth. This can be a little harsh if your skin is sensitive. This is especially true if you're new or haven't done good face prep.
  
  
• Across the grain (XTG) - Yep, you guessed it! Shaving across the direction of hair growth. This is a good compromise if you're finding ATG too rough on the skin.
  
  Here is a video about the different types of passes.
  
  *
  
  Post-Shave**
  
  
• If you bought an alum block, by all means run it under water and apply to your face. It'll help to seal cuts, close pores, and also acts as an antiseptic.
  
  
• If you don't have an alum block, splash some cold water on the face to help seal pores.
  
  
• Got nicks or cuts? Either apply an alum block or a styptic pencil. If you don't have these (you should), then you can just rip up some tiny pieces of toilet paper and stick them to your cuts for a few minutes. You can do this as you go along or at the end of the shave. Your call.
  
  
• Apply an aftershave lotion or balm. I wouldn't recommend any harsh aftershave sprays yet. If you've just finished shaving, you've got to treat your skin like a princess. Go for a soothing balm like this one (sorry, I love Proraso). I always use an after shave lotion with little or no alcohol, because alcohol dries your face out and makes you look older.
  
  
  
  Suggested Brands
  
  Razors - Gillette, Wilkinson Sword, Merkur, Parker, Edwin Jagger, Weishi, The Bluebeard's Revenge, Muhle.
  
  Blades - Merkur, Astra, Gillette, Shark, Derby, Lord, Feather, Wilkinson Sword.
  
  You can also buy sample packs like this one.
  
  Shaving Soaps/Sticks - Taylor of Old Bond St, Proraso, Erasmic, Trufitt & Hill, The Art of Shaving, Palmolive, Arko, Omega, Crabtree & Evelyn, Castle Forbes.
  
  Avoid Col. Conk
  
  Lotions/Creams/Oils/Gels - Taylor of Old Bond St, Proraso, Trufitt & Hill, Jack Black, Crabtree & Evelyn, Nivea, Gillette, The Art of Shaving, etc.
  
  
  
  I have intentionally left out straight razors and shavettes because you said you don't want to cut yourself. These have a much steeper learning curve than the other methods I have discussed. You probably will cut yourself if you attempt to use these.
  
  If you would like any further information about shaving, please feel free to message me, comment here, or visit /r/Wicked_Edge. Thank you!
  
  
  

What was the blade brand? I am working my way through this sample pack and would have to say that each pack shaves differently.

Here you go

Edwin Jagger De89lbl Double Edge Safety Razor Chrome Plated Lined Detail

Dovo Stainless Steel blade BLACK Handle Shavette Straight Razor Uses Replaceable DE Blades and a Brut Styptic Pencil you're going to need it

Edwin Jagger Razor Stand for Double Edged Razor or Colonel Conk Evernice Model 775 Chrome Safety Razor Stand

Double Edge Safety Razor Blade Variety Pack - 100 Blades! and/or 115 BEST Blade Sampler FEATHER SHARK ASTRA BLUEBIRD LORD GILLETTE

Edwin Jagger 1ej946sds Traditional English Best Badger Hair Shaving Brush Faux Ebony With Black Drip Stand

Taylor of Old Bond Street Sandalwood Shaving Cream Bowl, 5.3-Ounce

Proraso Shaving Cream 5.2 oz (147 g)

Bloc Osma Natural Alum Block

Ogallala Bay Rum Bonanza Sampler!

And just use a kitchen bowl to make the lather.

Edit : Made an Amazon List

A Kindle. The one with 3G and without the bullshit ads.

Or

A nice safety razor, lots of blades, a shaving brush and good shaving cream.

Or

40 pounds (5x8 pound bags) of cereal marshmallows.

I vote for #3.

Nice, I have the same razor. Yours is a lot shinier though. I like it but it tends to shave with the sides of the razor leaving a bit of a hair streak through the middle.

Anyway, as others have said, any double edge blade will fit. I just bought this box which should last me until I die; but if you want variety and to find what works for you buy this box.

Cheap Starter kit $29.37:

Silver Tone Double Edge Blade Razor Shaver w Nonslip Metal Handle $6.72

Derby Double Edge Razor Blades 30 Ct $3.70

Escali 100% Pure Badger Shaving Brush $13.95

Col. Conk Lime Glycerine Shave Soap 2.25 oz. $5.00

Blade sample pack (nor merkur or feather though):

Double Edge Safety Razor Blade Variety Pack - 100 Blades!

Better starter kit ($110.85):

Parker 82R Super HeavyWeight Butterfly Open Double Edge Safety Razor & 10 Shark Double Edge Blades $30.88

Edwin Jagger 1ej946sds Traditional English Best Badger Hair Shaving Brush Faux Ebony Medium With Drip Stand, Black, Medium $41.72

Geo F. Trumper Limes Shaving Soap in Wooden Bowl $32

10 Feather Razor Blades NEW Hi-stainless Double Edge $6.25

Would you have recommended something like this?

creamo! easy to use. i like the peppermint version. if he has sensative skin the normal one is pretty gentle.

dollar shave club is nice for what you pay for. to be honest, i have used creamo and a dual edge razor for the longest time no complaints. a DE razor will last him much longer than a disposable and he can do the tour de razor and find out which blades he likes. a box of blades is so much more economical than dollar shave club and if you get him a real nice razor he will treasure it. maybe he will get into brushes soaps etc but to be honest starting him off with something easy like creamo works. i have a maggard!

• Merkur Long Handled Safety Razor
  
  
• Double Edge Safety Razor Blade
  
  You do not have to go all in and do badger brush and special soap. No matter what anyone tells you. I shaved before my wedding with dish soap. I normally use bar soap and shave in the shower.

I'm in the UK, so got mine from Shave Lounge, but I was thinking about using Connaught for more blades, as their postage seems a little cheaper (also, I kinda like their archaic website). There are lots of US suppliers listed on the /r/wicked_edge wiki.

I got a Parker 91R because I believe that the handle should be knurled. It's not that fancy (although I see there are cheaper), but it's fine. You can get it for $30 in the US, it seems.

Buy a sampler or two of blades and see which ones you like. This seems to be a subjective matter - I've only tried two brands so far, as they're the ones which came with my razor; I liked the Derby Extra, which lots of people seem to dislike, whereas the Persona Platinum didn't suit me.

I kinda think the subscribers to /r/wicked_edge are taking it a bit too seriously, posting photos of their new razors and making it into a "hobby", but I can feel a noticeable difference between the two brands of blades.

The /r/wicked_edge subscribers harp on about shaving gel / foam being shitty - I bought a brush and the kind of shaving soap they recommend, but haven't used it, as Gillette gel still seems fine to me.

Hope this helps.

That's why you order this: http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0038KA5RC?psc=1&redirect=true&ref_=oh_aui_search_detailpage

1 Merkur Safety Razor, soap, bowl, stand, and badger brush for $95. This would be a christmas gift for my SO, which I would then most likely steal from him to shave as well. Depending on how it goes I may get one later on for personal use. I'm also thinking about getting this variety pack http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0038KA5RC/ref=ox_sc_act_title_2?ie=UTF8&psc=1&smid=A262S395NXGG8Z

sorry for the delay in response, you have most likely made your purchase by now. just in case though i ended up buying this sample pack: http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B0038KA5RC/ref=mp_s_a_2?qid=1331664130&sr=8-2
however my last purchase was of this http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B001QY8QXM/ref=mp_s_a_1?qid=1331664130&sr=8-1 as they are really cheap and work fine for me.

This has been covered before, and I recommend you head over to the FAQ's on the right.

That being said, the great thing about wet-shaving (i.e. using a brush and soap ISO gel) is that it gets your beard to actually stand up so the grain is of less hindrance. Notice I said "less" hindrance; grain is still important and relevant. So, you're on the right track if you start with a good kit that includes brush, soap and razor.

Now, on to Safety Razor vs Straight Razor debate, and trust me, it is a debate with both sides very vehemently and stringently for their side. However, and this is my $0.02, as you're a N00B, you should probably consider a Double Edge Safety Razor. The reason I suggest this is because there will be fewer differences between a DE and a cartridge (which is what you're using if you're not using a straight or safety razor). You can find lots of inexpensive ones, but this is definitely an area where you get what you pay for.

The problem with starting with a straight is that you have to worry about a lot more, e.g. blade maintenance, sight lines (it's a straight blade and your hand will be in your line of sight), blade types, and a whole slew of other things. Most people (who use them for a while and get the feel of them) end up preferring straights to DEs, but there is a severe learning curve with the straight.

So, here are a few recommendations for beginner sets. Very reasonably priced so if you give it a shot and decide it's not something you're into very much, you won't be out a lot of cash:

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B001GMTKCK

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B001A3HPT0

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B001AKFXN8

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0038KA5RC (These can be broken in half to make two blades for a straight.)

I guess the only thing I can recommend is what I use.

I use this body:
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000NL0T1G

I use this shaving soap:
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B001JHEY14

I use a brush that came in a set from walmart back when I started using these 5 years ago.

And for the actual blade, I recommend getting a variety pack and deciding which one works best for you. (http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0038KA5RC) is an example of one.

I personally like stainless steel blades, but that comes down to personal preference and your facial hair type. If you are just starting I recommend getting a cheaper razor body (my first was some set I got for real cheap, thinking under $20, that came with a soap, a bowl for the soap, a brush, some blades, and a body.)

I am making the switch too. After reading a lot on here and talking with a buddy who uses a DE this is what I ordered (should be arriving today). Total cost was around $125. If anyone knows anything I should add let me know. (Edit formatting)

Double Edge Safety Razor Blade Variety Pack

Merkur Model 180 Long Handled Safety Razor

Taylor of Old Bond Street St. James Shaving Cream

Nick Relief Styptic Pencil

Colonel Conk Evernice Model 775 Chrome Safety Razor Stand

Tweezerman Men's Shaving Brush

Proraso Pre-shave Cream

congrats. I really enjoyed this Sampler pack. I enjoyed most and ended up really like the Durablade 7am. I bought a 100 pack of those. this lotion is amazing. $8 at target but lasts a long time!


Keep trucking. it keeps getting better :)

I'm with you there! I hate it too.. takes too much time to apply.

I get in the shower. Let my face get really hot to loosen the hairs and then I shave.. I rarely cut myself, and it rarely hurts.
You might not be able to get away with no pain.. our faces are different after all.

I use a shower mirror.

If you can't do it in the shower try the hot washcloth method.

This might also be a good option for blades.

http://www.amazon.com/Double-Safety-Razor-Blade-Variety/dp/B0038KA5RC/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1420485166&sr=8-1&keywords=blade+assortment

You get a real good assortment of brands, that way you can see what works best for your skin.

Sorry for the late reply.

This was the sampler pack I used...

http://www.amazon.com/Double-Safety-Razor-Blade-Variety/dp/B0038KA5RC/ref=sr_1_4?ie=UTF8&qid=1335280811&sr=8-4


However I don't know if I would recommend it, as you can see I had a lot of blades left over.

I don't need three 5 blade packs of a specific razor, because if I don't like it I have like 13 left.

Don't be! Its easy, reletively cheap to get into, its fun, and just start with a double edge safety razor and you'll be fine. You arent going to slice your face off. Trust me, you'll love shaving with it. Go to your local antique mall and look for something liek this Go to amazon and order a sampler pack of blades And possibly some shave soap and youre set!

You can find shave soap at Target/winco if you are in the USA as well. You can get brand-new razors on amazon, look for a company called merkur. Although there is nothing like having a vintage razor from the 50's. =) Check out that subreddit for more info. Even if you are female these work awesome legs and armpits. My wife uses one. And yes, its WAY cheaper than cartridge razors.

I did look on Amazon.com prior to Bestshave.net.

Probably the best deal they have going is this one: http://www.amazon.com/Double-Safety-Razor-Blade-Variety/dp/B0038KA5RC/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1342011964&sr=8-3&keywords=de+blades

However, that is only 100 blades in 7 varieties. For $3 more, I got 142 blades in 17 varieties.

Certainly Amazon is a better option when you want your blades within the next day or two, but I have yet to see a truly cheap sampler on it.

They are so sharp...it's kind of unbelievable.

I like these

They are often referred to as "Israeli Personnas" on forums/boards...I find that they work really well on my skin and aren't too sharp but also last a long time. Your results may vary.....but they do come in this sample pack which is a good idea!

This is what I bought a few weeks ago. 100 blades for about $25 (less if you're Amazon prime). Different blades definitely have different characteristics; this will give you a chance to try out some nice ones.

One you've got your DE, you'll be set. I've been using a new blade for every shave. A word of caution: the sharper edges of your knees can take a beating while using a DE (especially if it's a nice heavy one) if you're not cautious with your pressure/angle.

Just a blade sampler pack.

Blades

• So far, I've had best luck with Astra Stainless and Sharp. I usually just use a new blade for every shave (once a week). I do see the 1-4 numbers on the blade, does that indicate anything important? Haven't tried shimming the razor yet, I'm a bit too amateur I feel like.
  
  Soap
  
  
• Now that I think about it, the Eucalyptus Menthol-Formulation could be a factor to the irritation.
  
  
• I definitely will skip on the alum block next shave, and look into getting more blades. Could you recommend a good soap/cream??
  
  
• Thank you for your helpful input!!

This forever. I got a Merkur DE razor and many of the other products mentioned in here a couple years ago, and my face has never looked better.

I have extremely thick hair and shaved with a Gilette Mach 3 for years. After a shave or two with the cartridge blades they would start to pull on my hair slightly and my face would break out like clockwork. Replacing those cartridges after just a couple shaves would have cost an arm and a leg. Now that I have a DE razor, my blades are WICKED sharp, and I got 100 of them for $25.
They actually stay sharp way longer than the cartridges, are double sided, and give me a better shave than I have ever had (my favorites which are noticeably sharper than the other blades in this pack have like no brand name. Almost industrial looking packaging. When I'm home I will try to find what they are called).

I did nick myself more often with these blades but I"ve gotten much better at it now. Now I rarely nick myself.

here ya go.

Razor
Blades

Now you can have the best shave you've ever had and not need blades for YEARS. Honestly, it takes a few times to get used to it, but just go slow. You're probably used to hacking at your face with multiblade garbage.

What is you max budget?

Here is my recommendation for your kit(trying to keep with a budget):

Blade sampler $23

Edwin Jagger DE89 $30, it's the one I have and I love it.

This Omega Brush for $13, I have a similar Omega boar brush and love it. You have to soak it in hot tap water for about 5-10 minutes before you lather up to soften it up so it can absorb water.

For soap you could also consider C.O. Bigelow w/ menthol and eucalyptus $10, just got this at bath and body works for $5 in store (if you live near a store) and shaved with it today, it was fantastic, had a nice cooling effect to it and had a good protective lather. Taylor of Old Bond street is good as well, i have the sandalwood one(the hard soap) and it is fantastic. You have to consider they have hard soap, cream and sticks as well so you could look at those as well.

And as far as lathering you can lather in a bowl/mug or straight to the face, i like the face method thats just a personal bias though.