Over the years, razor manufacturers have added blades, redesigned handles, and introduced countless bells and whistles in the ongoing battle for market share. As blades increase from one to five, and lubricants are added, the cost of replacement blade sets has shot up to $4 each or more. This price hike has enabled discount players like Dollar Shave Club and Harry’s to enter the market, offering a slightly cheaper alternative. However, despite these advancements, the good old stand-by safety razor can still deliver a value shave that is tough to beat.
Long-time shavers might remember the Gillette safety razor, a standard issue for many in the service. This razor was known for giving a great shave. Although they are no longer manufactured, high-quality new safety razors are still available. For instance, you can purchase a replacement razor on Amazon, and vintage Gillette razors in good condition can be found on eBay or in antique stores.
Save Money with Safety Razors
One of the advantages of using a safety razor is the affordability of the blades, costing only pennies apiece. Plus, these blades can deliver numerous good shaves without clogging up, as multi-blades tend to do.
If you’ve never used one, you can buy all you need to get started and replace your eight-pack of multi-blades. You can find safety razors, shaving soaps, and brushes on Amazon. A good shaving soap and a brush are highly recommended, as they can make a significant difference.
Trying Different Blades
It’s worth exploring different brands of blades before settling on one you prefer. Nowadays, all brands are made overseas, even the “American” ones. Each brand differs slightly and maybe more suitable for one person than another. Wilkinson Sword is a popular choice, but you can also purchase sample blades to try out at Tryablade.com before deciding which works best for you.
Mastering the Technique
Newcomers to safety razors might face some challenges at first. It takes time and practice to learn the proper angle and pressure to use without causing bleeding or skin irritation. When shaving, use short, gentle strokes, moving with the grain. Having a styptic pencil on hand for any nicks or cuts may also be helpful.
Other Uses for Spent Blades
Once a blade is no longer good enough for shaving, it doesn’t mean it’s without use. Used blades remain extremely sharp and can be perfect for stripping adhesives like tape, glue, and paint off various surfaces, including glass. By placing thick tape, like duct tape, on one edge, you can protect your hands and fingers while using the blade. Additionally, you can include these blades in a survival kit for stripping wires, cutting small items, and even for medical purposes in emergencies.
Keeping Blades Sharp
Blades can be maintained, even if they’re not in close-shave quality, for years by a practice called “stropping.” This process involves three simple steps:
- Soak the blade in a little soapy water or a cup of water with some tea tree oil.
- Allow the blade to dry.
- Run the blade in the opposite direction of your normal shave across some old denim jeans about two dozen times.
Remember not to cut the denim. Run the blade on each side opposite the shave direction, and it will sharpen nicely.
Although Dollar Shave Club, Harry’s, Gillette’s new club, ToughBlade, and others claim to provide excellent shaving experiences, the genuine discounted shave can still be found in using a safety razor.
