Best Safety Razor For The Closet Shave!
If you are like me, I always search for the next best safety razor. I love trying new razors as each one of them provides a different shave for me.
So, I have started documenting my thoughts on what to buy below to help buy the one that will work for you personally.
I have bought my fair share of them in the past 5 years; some were great, and some were a piece of junk. Some were overpriced, and some were a great deal.
If you’re curious (or in a hurry):
I always use this specific safety razor, which is extremely popular.
It's an excellent razor, yet you will also find that it is not overpriced. What of the cheaper safety razors you can buy online?
Choosing the best razor to shave your face with can be like choosing a life partner.
You’ll have to go through several options before finding one you really get along with.
But the problem is that we don’t have time to search the internet for which safety razor to buy.
Sometimes, we get lucky and find good products, and sometimes we get crap. Plenty of razors in the market claim they will give you the best look a man can get.
Choosing one can be tricky and therefore, we will look at some of the best shaving razors for men that are available in the market.
If you are tired of wasting your money on razors AND you don't like with unsatisfactory results, keep reading.
I have a list of safety razors that you will seriously like and they are for various skill sets from beginner to advanced. So, let's look at the list below shall we?
In a hurry? Check out the Best Seller
Merkur Long Handle (Best All Around Razor!)
Out of the 13 razors here, Merkur Long handle in my opinion is the best safety razor after using it for more than 5 years now.
It was easy to transition from a disposable razor, I can shave just as fast, didn't get the nicks like I did with others and it was easy to use.
I really love the long handle and its light weight.
I literally use this just like the good old cartridge Gillette razors I used t use and it is beginner friendly!
- Light Weight and Long Handle
- Great for Beginners and Experienced
- Shaves fast like a cartridge razors
- Great Price
- Easy to grip and I use it in the shower
- 3 Piece Razor - easy to change blades
* This button takes you to the lowest priced listing I found on Amazon.
Best Safety Razor Comparisons Table For 2023
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My Goto Razor
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Luxury Category
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5
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Cheap & Popular
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Adjustable Settings
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Closed Comb
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High Dollar
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Best Safety Razor Reviews For 2023
Merkur Long Handled Safety Razor
This razor is made in Germany and comes from Merkur. A very close shave is achieved from the double edge design of this razor head. The extra long chrome handle is comfortable for everybody but more so for people with larger hands giving more confidence than trying to navigate a smaller one.
It also helps when making the transition from disposable razors to traditional ones.
I use this one all the time and it's one you can recommend to new or advanced shavers without question. A very sturdy razor and I shave fast with it, without any worries of being cut.
So, if you are coming from a disposable razor for the first time into wet shaving I would start here and them move to something different once you get the hang of it.
It's a nice 4" handle and it's very light weight with a twist off head that breaks down into two pieces to change out the razor blades.
I like to use feather razor blades or Astra Razor blades with it for the best results.
Merkur 34c Heavy Duty Double Edge Razor
This hand crafted chrome finished razor is made by Merkur in Germany. It is both decorative and traditional. Old fashioned shaving at it's best. It has a great weight to it which feels reassuring in the hand. Therefore less pressure is needed but still giving you a smooth and comfortable shave.
Length: 8cm Weight: 80g. Take note this has a short thick handle with some extra weight to it is what makes this one special. Some guys prefer this type of handle and weight because it's easy to control and the heavy razor does all the work so you don't have to press hard on your face.
Features:
- One of the most popular razors on the market for years
- Short handle with a heavy weight to it at 2.72 oz
- Knurled no slip grip 3.04 inch handle
- Closed comb and fixed blade gap
- 2 piece design untwisting off the head to change blades.
Note: This is one of those razors that every wet shaver eventually buys starting out or to have a nice short heavy razor in your travel set to use.
Baxter of California Safety Razor for Men
If you have not heard of Baxtor they orginated in California at Baxter Finely Barber shop in Los Angeles.
This is more of a luxury high end razor which will cost a bit more than the others.
The material is chrome plated with a ribbed barber pole handle. It is a 3 pieced razor design where the head separates and comes off to change the blade.
One thing to note is that this was designed as a no clog razor. So you guys with thick beards or guys who’s hair grows fast you can use this with confidence to get the job done.
Merkur Classic Safety Razor
The straight edge of this razor gives an extra close shave. It is finished in chrome and has a non slip grip handle adding confidence to your shaving experience especially if you are in the shower. No pressure is needed whilst using this razor as it will just glide over the skin. Length: 8.3cm Weight: 113g. Made in Germany by Merkur.
This is a 3 piece razor which means that you twist the handle to separate it from the head. The blade head breaks down into 2 parts so that you can fit the razor blade in the middle. This is less aggressive than the 34c model as well. So, take that into consideration if you are wanting to choose between the 34c vs 33c.
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So, the Merkur classic 3 piece razor actually has 4 different models to choose from. They all have Knurled handles, polished chrome finish and a fixed blade gap.
Below are the small differences in each of the models to help you pick the right one.
- You have the Merkur 15c which which is an open comb model which would be great for long or think hair. It weighs 1.87oz and is 3.24 inches long.
- Next you have the Merkur 23c which is also the called the 180 that has a long handle at 4.16 inches and weights 2.21oz using a close comb style head. I use this one regularly.
- The Merkur 33c which has a closed comb head but with a straight bar. it's 3.33 inches long and 1.98
- Lastly you have the Merkur 25c with is an open comb with an extra long handle at 4.07in weighing 2.01oz. So, this would be your choice for thick hair and you want a long handle.
Edwin Jagger DE89bl Chrome Plated Double Edge Safety Razor
Edwin Jagger established his manufacturing reputation with this razor in the wet shaving market. It is chrome plated with a mirror shine. The Edwin Jagger de89lbl is engraved on the handle and has a closed comb safety razor head. It has a great balance when in hand. It has been designed to give a mild shave making it the perfect safety razor for beginners. Length: 9.5cm.
Edwin Jagger DE89LBL Style
The Edwin Jagger DE89LBL handle can come in the following styles which is Ebony, Chrome, Chrome lined and Ivory. While this is a very popular choice among wet shavers you should be careful about dropping this. I personally dropped it and broke the screw where it attaches to the head and I saw others who had that issue. You can contact the Edwin Jagger company who will help you replace it.
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Parker 99R – Long Handle Super Heavy Weight Butterfly
This razor made by Parker is a heavy weight. It has a very durable handle made of chrome plated brass. It has a unique butterfly design (twist to open) on the head for the safety of changing the blades which has been a long awaited design feature. This razor gives a close, smooth comfortable shave.
Steeped in tradition, safety razors are making a come back. They are far more cost effective and are very stylish. You can't go wrong with this one. It also comes with extra blades for your convenience. Length: 4" Weight: 3.4 ounces .
What's unique about this razor is that it has a butterfly opening. So, the head does not twist off at all. It folds up for you to simply to change the blade. I found this to provide an aggressive shave as well.
Viking Crusader Adjustable Razor
The Viking Crusader razor has become very popular in the wet shaving market since it's latest release setting itself apart from it's competing safety razor brands. It's a unique in the fact it is an adjustable razor that you can dial in to how aggressive you want to shave. Its weight has a nice heavy feel to it and a long handle with ridges in to to secure your grip.
The appearance of the razor has a rich and luxury look to it sporting a rose brass colored head, black handle and a small brass end on the handle. Now what makes this special is that is not only is it adjustable, it has two shaving options built into the head where one side has a combed edge for an aggressive shave which is also great for longer hair. The other side is smooth for sensitive skin and a gentle shave.
Note: The brass head will fade a bit to give it that aged authentic look and you will want to make sure you towel off the razor after each shave to keep the plate in good standing.
The length of the handle is 117mm and it weighs in at 109 grams. in summary this is not a beginner best safety razor and is meant for experienced shavers. So, if you want to dial in your daily shaves with a great looking razor this is the next razor you will want to try and it won't break your pocket book!
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Seki Edge Feather AS-D2
This razor is made from pure stainless steel and features double edge blades. The razor gives a perfectly smooth shaving experience that will make shaving fun for you. You don’t have to keep shaving the same part of your face repeatedly because the double edge design shaves it all in just one stroke of the razor. This is feather's best razor out there that feather makes. Make no mistake it comes with a heavty price tag.
Features
The razor offers exquisite craftsmanship and quality. It is normally sized at 3.5 inches which makes the grip quite comfortable for the user. The razor can be bought at several online stores like Amazon. The razor is best for keeping any facial style you want. I recommend using feather razor blades for best results.
Customer Reviews
The razor has got several great reviews on Amazon. People have liked the blade’s ability to provide a smooth and quick shave and at such a low price. It's great for sensitive skin!
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Merkur Futur Razor - Adjustable Razor
Merkur has released another great safety razor in the wet shaving market that ensures a smooth shaving experience with excellent results and is an adjustable safety razor. The Merkur Futur has been manufactured in Germany, and you can feel the German expertise and craftsmanship while shaving your facial hair without any difficulty whatsoever.
I own this one as well and I like using it at setting 5 which gets close but it is not too aggressive. You literally turn the handle to a setting of 1 through 6. The higher it goes the more the blade is exposed. So, you definitely have to be skilled at shaving once you start tweaking up the setting. I learned that the hard way.
It's a heavy razor too so don't even think about pressing hard on it. It will do all the work if you just let it do it's job as you pull it across your face.
Merkur Futur Features
- The razor has a double edge blade for proper shaving.
- You can also adjust the blade opening with 9 settings. I recommend 5 or 6.
- The razor is 4.25 inches in length which ensure a better grip for men.
- Product is made from pure stainless steel which makes it durable and long lasting safety razor
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Customer Reviews
Merkur Futur razor has got some really good reviews on several online sites at Amazon. These reviews mainly focus on the benefits of the adjustable blades. People have had really good results with this option as they can have the smoothest shave that can last 2 days and they don’t have to shave every day before going to work.
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VIKINGS BLADE Godfather Safety Razor
From the looks to efficiency, VIKINGS BLADE Godfather Safety Razor stands tall above most razors and is a favorite for wet shaving. The longer handle, Valhalla stripes and its solid construction makes it look as magnificent as Thor’s hummer.
This razor has been embellished with top quality materials like alloy and chrome to ensure it appeals to the eyes and lasts longer
as well. Viking Blade razor promises to deliver a professional shaves without burns.
It is very forgiving and great for men with sensitive skin.
Special Features
The micro-comb feature on this razor makes the blade less aggressive on the skin. Direct contact between the blades and the face can result in accidental cuts. Even when cautious, the skin will always itch resulting to rashes. However, with a micro-comb, the itchy feeling can be avoided.
Besides the argument that a micro-comb system prevents the razor from providing a close shave, VIKINGS BLADE Godfather Safety Razor still earns many points for proving the closest comfortable shave. Beginner wet shavers will also find the micro-comb to be quite advantageous.
The company that produces this razor aims not at revolutionizing the technology but rather to bring you the finest custom built products that will make the shaving process an enjoyable activity. They offer 100% guarantee on this razor so you can return it if it doesn’t meet your shaving needs. Additionally, it comes in a luxurious lather casing with five replacement blades to get you started.
What makes it better than others?
- this safety razor head has a butterfly design that makes it easy to replace dull blades
- The advanced open comb system provides additional safety as it protects users against accidental cuts.
- The premium Swedish alloy material provides a grandeur feeling of manliness.
- It’s one of the most durable safety razors
- Provides a comfortable nick-free shave
Reviews and ratings
If you want to believe VIKINGS BLADE Godfather Safety Razor is a great product, visit its rating section in Amazon and you’ll be surprised. Out of the reviews currently, 97% of them found this product to be an excellent razor.
VIKINGS BLADE Chieftain Safety Razor
If you are looking for a safety razor with modern features for wet shaivng, look no further than VIKINGS BLADE Chieftain Safety Razor. Like its brother above, this razor provides a comfortable close shave without digging a hole in your pocket. Its exterior is embellished with Swedish materials that make it elegant and rust proof.
With a micro-comb feature, this razor is perfect for beginners who have no clue how to shave with safety razors. There is a closed end that hides the blade preventing accidental cuts. On its top lies an advanced butterfly head that lets you change the blade in just five seconds.
Unlike most razors, VIKINGS BLADE Chieftain Safety Razor comes in a luxurious gift box containing five platinum blades, which are considered comfortable for beginners as they are less abrasive. When it comes to the handle make up, this razor has grooves to provide a perfect grip even when your hands are soapy.
This Razor is actually suitable for ladies too. So it’s a perfect gift to send to a friend of an opposite gender.
Customer reviews and ratings
Like VIKINGS BLADE Godfather Safety Razor, this razor has a very high rating on Amazon. This means these two razors deliver on their promises. There are thousands of reviews on Amazon for Chieftain Safety Razor. That’s an indication that this product can meet shaving needs of many other people.
Side Note:
The Chief is definitely lighter than the Godfather. I also found that the viking blades or astra blades work best with it. Feathers were a bit too sharp and I had to slow down my shaving with it.
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Muhle Closed Comb Double Edge Safety Razor, R89
Muhle R89 Closed Comb Razor is a product of a company that believes in quality wet shaving products. Muhle has been dealing in shaving product since 1945 and their old-fashioned way of doing things coupled with modern technology seems to be bearing fruits. Their products are cherished widely.
Muhle R89 has a shiny handle that is chrome plated to make it rustproof and dust proof. The handle is also engraved to provide a firmer grip during a wet shaving.
The weight of this razor is perfect in that it’s light but still a little heavy to provide some pressure for the shaving process. Extremely heavy or light razors can make you cut yourself while trying to provide with a suitable pressure.
What are its pros?
- Light weight razor
- Blade head is 41 mm wide. Length is 94 mm and it weights 64 grams.
- Chrome plates and corrosion-resistant.
- Good for both novice and seasoned shavers
- Comes at a reasonable price
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Parker 96r Long Handle Safety Razor
The Parker 96r is a sweet butterfly safety razor with a long ribbed handle for great grip and control. It's very solid with a brass frame and chrome finished head. To change the blade you simply twist the razor handle at the bottom to open the head to insert the double edge safety razor blade.
Note: 96 is the safety razor's length which is 96mm or 3.78 inches. I prefer a long handle so I do like that feature. It does weigh in at 2.75 oz.
This could be a bit to aggressive for your first safety razor as a beginner but is a a great choice for the experienced who like the long handle razor types.
What are its pros?
- Long 4 Inch Razor Handle
- Butterfly opening for a quick blade change
- Balanced weight at 2.75 oz.
- Medium to Advanced Users
- reasonable price
Weishi Nostalgic Long Handle Safety Razor
This is by far the cheapest safety razor that I'll mention on the page and is under twenty dollars.
It's has the long handle that I personal like and a butterfly opening that makes it easy to change the blade.
Features
- The gun metal, no slip handle is 4.3 inches long
- The butterfly opening head is 1.7 inches wide
- Overall it weighs in at 74 grams
- 5 blades come with it, but I would order a set of feather blades if you order this.
Notes: So, this is definitely a great option for a beginner safety razor to try out wet shaving without investing a lot of money at all. There are a lot of great reviews for this razor given the price of it. Just grab a high pair of feather blades to go with it and a nice shaving brush and shaving soap and you'll be set.
Popular Double Edge Razor Blades
Frequently Asked Questions(FAQ)
How Long can you use a double edge razor Blade ?
The amount of uses you get per blade vary on your facial hair thickness and really comes down to how well you take care of it.
If you do not dry it off after you are done shaving you have a process called Oxidation that happens which causes rust over time and eventually dulls your blade.
When I don't take care of them and I shave in the shower, my blades usually last around 10-15 times. If I take the time to dry them off using a hair dryer or take them apart and dry them off they can last 30 plus shaves. Now you can also use an alcohol dip to dry it or better yet Save My Blades liquid to keep a protective coating on them.
Why are safety Razors Double Edge ?
Having a double edge blade allows you to make or passes shaving before rinsing the shaving cream out. So, you swipe down with one stroke, turn the razor over to the other side and swipe down again allows you 2 swipes versus 1 before rinsing.
Do Safety Razors Give a Better Shave?
When you talk to any wet shaving enthusiast they will also say yes and that includes me! lol The theory is that the razors put the blade at a 30 degree angle and because they are so sharp and close to your skin you do not have to apply a lot of pressure to cut your hair. This is great to reduce skin irritation and skin rash.
Why use double edge safety razors?
There are many reasons why one should use double edge razors over multi-bladed cartridge razor, a straight razor and disposable razors. The main reason is obvious; you get the best results.
To begin with, most double edge razors are products of the latest technology that aims at clipping off your beards without affecting your skin. Their blades are finer and thinner to prevent them from tugging or pulling on your hair. Some of them have safety features like a closed comb system that protects your skin from the direct actions of the blades.
Most cartridge razors have between 3 to 5 blades. Thus when shaving, all those blades pass through your skin causing irritation. Double edge however consists only of one blade, hence less abrasive on your skin.
How to use double edge safety razors
Sometimes the simplest practices can be mind boggling. Shaving using a double edge razor needs you to learn some basics before you can enjoy a shaving ritual. The following pointers highlight some of the steps you can follow when learning how to use DE razors.
Stage one: Assemble your safety razor
To assemble your razor, you need to unscrew the head from the handle and open the comb. Insert your blade and make sure it aligns to all the designated holes from one end to the other. Close the comb and fasten the head back to the handle.
Stage two: pre-shaving routing
This is refers to all the activities you do before the actual “slicing” of the hair. First take a shower or skip that by washing your head and/or face in warm water. This will soften both your skin and hair. Next, prepare some lather from your favorite shaving soap and spread it across your face using the best quality shaving brush. Make sure all the regions that you intend to shave have been covered in froth.
Step three: The shaving process
Grab the double edge razor by the handle and move it gently across your face and in the direction of your hair growth; this is what they call shaving with the grain. Sometimes you can go against the grain but not when you are a freshman.
Areas around the chin and neck will need the assistance of you other hand; pull with one hand as the other shaves to get all the stubborn hairs clipped off.
Personal Notes for the Best Safety Razor:
- Dip the safety razor into the water often to dislodge it
- Make sure to hold the blade at the perfect cutting angle
- Make use of the razors weight during the shaving process.
- Wet your skin again if you have to go for a second or third pass, but remember to unclog your razor first.
Finally, wash your face with warm water and apply some aftershave. Remember to clean your razor and store it well.
Buying factors for The Double Edge Safety Razor
Before you buy the best safety razor, there are some vital factors that you need to consider. The key ones include:
- Price- what’s your financial position?
- What features are you looking for?
- Aggressiveness-choose a razor that will be forgiving on your skin
- Type of hair- the type of hair you have will also determine the type of razor you need. Those with tough hairs will need razors with sharper blades while those with soft hairs need razors with medium sharp blades.
There are razors with an open comb, closed comb, long handle, short handle, medium and heavy weight. You need to be sure what you want before placing an order.
Conclusion
Safety razors are still used today for a traditional close shave and for men with sensitive skin. They are actually making a come back as the preferred method of shaving. Each one has their own unique qualities. The most popular today come equip with double edge razor blades for the closest shave. Whether it be light weight, heavy weight, for sensitive skin, short or long handle or added safety features, here are reviews of the best safety razors currently available to buy.
Double Edge Safety razors are a step up from the Straight Razor in my opinion that are still used by professionals today, but require a steady hand. First patented in 1904 by King C Gillette it was thought that attaching a blade to a handle to shave was genius. No longer did men have to send their straight edge blades to the barbers for sharpening.
Shaving is a crucial part of men’s grooming, and you need to make sure that you have got the perfect look according to the modern trends. These razors are the best in the market and will surely provide you with perfect results.
Go ahead and jump into wet shaving today and start with the Merkur Long handle here for the best safety razor price.
Look at these popular articles to help add more tools to your shaving kit on men's shaving soaps, men's double edge razor blades, top rated shaving brush stands, Best Beard Care Products , or shaving brushes review as well.
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My favorite by far is the Merkur Long Handle. I can shave fast with it like a normal cartridge razor and I don’t have to worry about pressing to hard and nicking myself. Pretty sweet deal overall and a cheap razor option.