Henson Shaving AL-13 Vs Merkur 34C Review

I am going to be comparing two popular safety razors: the Merkur 34C and the @HensonShaving AL-13. Both of these razors have a great reputation in the wet shaving community, but which one is better? Let's find out!
First Impressions:
Let's start with the Merkur 34C. This razor has a classic design and is made of high-quality materials. It has a nice weight to it and feels comfortable in the hand. The Henson Shaving AL-13, on the other hand, has a more modern design and is made of aircraft-grade aluminum. It's also lightweight and easy to handle.
Shaving Experience:
The Merkur 34C has a closed comb design, which makes it great for beginners. It's also very efficient at removing hair and provides a close shave. The Henson Shaving AL-13 has an closed comb design with the precision CNC machined aluminum to create very little blade exposure and a more precise shave. It's perfect for beginners and experienced shavers who want a closer shave.
Build Quality:
When it comes to build quality, both razors are top-notch. The Merkur 34C is made of chrome-plated brass handle and zinc alloy base plate and top cap has a durable construction. The Henson Shaving AL-13 is made of aircraft-grade aluminum and CNC milled out of one piece of aluminum is also very durable. Both razors are built to last and can withstand daily use.
Price:
The Merkur 34C is a bit more affordable than the Henson Shaving AL-13. It's a great option for those who are just starting out with wet shaving and don't want to spend a lot of money. The Henson Shaving AL-13 is a bit more expensive, but it's worth the investment for experienced shavers who want a high-quality razor.
Conclusion:
So, which razor is better? It really depends on your personal preferences and experience level. The Merkur 34C is a great option for beginners who want a reliable and affordable razor. The Henson Shaving AL-13 is a great option for beginners and experience shavers who want a more precise shave and are willing to invest in a high-quality razor.
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[@OhioShaves]

Which one do you like?

[@channelsixtynine069]

I've got a Merkur 38C, the long-handled version of the 34C. The other one I'd like to try is the 39C, it puts a curve on the blade for a more aggressive cut.

[@OhioShaves]

I have the 37c slant. It’s good but I have to be careful

[@channelsixtynine069]

@@OhioShaves Yes, I have to do the same with any safety razor. I've just placed an order for a 39C. I'll stick with Merkur, I've found the 38C to be an excellent razor, it's 15 years old and still like new.

[@OhioShaves]

👍

[@roosterboy7357]

@@OhioShavesthe shirt

[@tugboat8475]

I use the 34C, its been around for ever. On a daily shave I put the parker blade in. If I miss two or three days, I'll go with a Wilkinson sword premium Germany blade. Funny thing i asked my dad who is 76, he said back in the 60s 70s all razors did the same thing, and the best thing invented was the cartridge razor. Haha. funny how the wheel turns. Nice video review by the way

[@OhioShaves]

👍

[@kortanul]

The Henson seems to be safer and thus easier to run thanks to the design and tolerances, while the Merkur's giving more control and speed. Makes Henson better for an unsteady hand, a morning rushed shave, a head shave, etc, while Merkur 34c is better if you have good coordination and can see your work.

[@OhioShaves]

💈👍

[@Art-is-craft]

Safer? It is not downhill skiing.

[@TipeONegatyve]

​@@Art-is-craftunderrated comment 😂

[@Spfinator]

Very succinct. Thank you.

[@Null94]

@@Art-is-craftyeah, whoever tells you razor blades are sharp and can cut you are sheeple of big gilette

[@Vincerama]

Man, your microphone is amazing. We can hear every stroke!

[@OhioShaves]

Thanks for noticing 😁

[@IAmTheShaz]

Thanks for making this comparison video! I've been thinking about buying a Henson but have been skeptical if it was a good razor or not since i've never seen anyone show it in use. Nice to see the Henson go toe to toe with the industry workhorse.

[@OhioShaves]

Thank you much

[@williamdoll711]

I have the 34G. Thought it to be too mild until a friend said "Trust me and put a Feather in it." Boom! Totally different razor. Love it now.

[@OhioShaves]

👍

[@brianh2287]

Both good razors, but I'll take the Henson every time. The Henson is one of my favorite razors for face and head shaves. I really hope you try the Karve Overlander sometime, I think you will love it. Based on the razors you like, the Overlander would probably be one of your favorites. Great video and Happy Easter !

[@OhioShaves]

Thanks for sharing. Brian

[@billjohnsonseattle]

@BrianH I agree 100%. The Henson is a good autopilot razor, but the Overlander is a better shaver. I have sold all of my DE razors except for 3: SS Karve Overlander, Leaf Twig, and Parker Variant. IMO the best Travel razors are the Bic Easy Rinse, the Gillette Sensor 2 Plus, and the Gillette Sensor / Sensor Excel….

[@brianh2287]

@@billjohnsonseattle The Overlander is definitely more efficient, and it's so smooth. If I had to pick three razors to keep it would be my Henson Ti22, Overlander Brass, and one of my RazorRock SS razors.

[@billjohnsonseattle]

@@brianh2287 Where the Overlander really shines is against the grain. It cuts closer and smoother than the Hensons, without irritation. I’ve also done 1 pass shaves ATG that are incredibly good. The Henson would always leave me with some stubble above the lip which is why I sold them.

[@jmw3938]

@@billjohnsonseattle Is there a difference in performance between the SS Overlander and the ALU version? I have the ALU version and desperately want to like it (lots of people rave about it), but I just can’t get a good shave from it. My favourite razor atm is the EJ 3One6 (blue anodised handle), which gives me an excellent shave - although I’m aware not everyone likes it. I also have the Timeless ALU, which is too aggressive for me (even though it has a tiny blade gap). Maybe ALU razors aren’t for me! Anyway, is it worth investing in a SS Overlander, or will it simply be another razor I never use (I’ve got around 30 of those, unfortunately). What are your thoughts?

[@OzagSalo]

The henson is by far my favorite razor ive ever tried. The blade alignment is unmatched and the way the head is designed is the only razor that gets under my nose. Only problems i have with the henson is its a little lightweight, long handle and the bottom is rounded so they make you buy thier stand. But the stand henson makes is pretty unique and cool.

[@OhioShaves]

👍

[@Veretax]

So I've always wondered, why not use a small cup or coffee cup to stand it in? @OhioShaves is there a reason to prefer free stand, rack or specialty stand?

[@kortanul]

@Veretax Generally speaking, a good stand will use less space and look good while guaranteeing good drainage without compromising handle access. There are many other valid solutions, but usually compromise on at least one aspect. I have a pair of cheap command hooks on my mirror and they work great to hold a razor but look a little funky and, well, they're on the mirror

[@jasonnyc2006]

@OhioShaves another great detailed educational breakdown of wet shaving products. I love my Merkur mk34c and I have the Henson Medium razor. I wish the best for the family and you a Happy Holidays.

[@OhioShaves]

Happy Easter

[@ejones7589]

I would choose the Henson. And more specifically, the “medium” version. After viewing your video, it appeared that the Merkur was less consistent and stable than the Henson. I currently use the Supply 2.0 razor; superseded by the Supply SE. The 2.0 came with the 2-dot (or medium) plate. I later ordered the 1-dot (mild) and 3-dot (aggressive) plates for comparisons… I’ve settled on using the 2-dot because it takes care of a fair amount of beard growth and is good with touch-ups… I’d say the Henson-medium would perform similarly for me. Thanks for the video!

[@OhioShaves]

👍

[@jamesanderson2638]

I haven’t used the Merkur 34C, but I have the King C. Gillette safety razor & the Henson AL-13 medium++ & the AL-13 aggressive-+++. The Henson AL-13 medium ++ is the best razor I have ever used in my life. I used to use cartridge razors & will never go back to them. Keep up the great work & Happy Easter! 🐣🐇

[@OhioShaves]

Thank you much. Henson AL-13 ++ Great Choice👍

[@TomoReso]

I just bought king c few days ago, its my first safety razor and in pretty happy, however id like a deeper cut... How is al 13 ++ compared to king c?

[@OhioShaves]

It’s a better shave than Gillette

[@TipeONegatyve]

Unexpected ASMR

[@OhioShaves]

Thanks

[@glassworkssundrops]

Just had my first Henson shave earlier today. The razor came in the mail. The safety razor I gave up 40 years ago cut me several times. In fact the cartridge razors used to cut me. The Henson is excellent. Best shave I have ever had and the only small bleed was a tiny bit of dry skin psoriasis. Just a tiny thing. The Henson is the best of all time. Odd since it is so simple on the surface of it. I shave out of the shower no soap just a wet face. My shaving cost just dropped to 10 cents per week. Love it.

[@OhioShaves]

Great to here

[@IbrndUSA]

lather up mate

[@bjblaskowicz]

Im not exactly a shaving connoisseur but i use the merkur 34c (my first safety razor) and have never cut myself despite only ever using water and shaving about once per week. Im not clean shaven but i find with a safety razor lining up your beard is much easier than cartridge.

[@OhioShaves]

Right on

[@b374mxg]

Merkur is the only razor I use. Precision, and their blades are fantastic

[@OhioShaves]

Great Razor. Thanks for sharing

[@taxman3749]

So.... "Shaving Enthusiast community" something I was not aware of yesterday. And, I got to say... I am here for it.

[@OhioShaves]

Nice

[@gauthig1]

Love the HS++, smooth and never cuts, and clean good shave. Except first shave if using Feather, those things are sharp. BTW, nice shirt!

[@OhioShaves]

Great razor. A must have. Thanks

[@razormichl2004]

nice video👍 i have the 34c and i like him a lot

[@OhioShaves]

Thanks for sharing

[@Gr0t104]

Very Nice . Henson al - 13 is so cool

[@OhioShaves]

I think so too D4

[@GprokYB]

Once again great informative video thanks so much........ Henson so sweet and for me it gives a closer shave than 34C. Very close call though.... I enjoy your video

[@OhioShaves]

Right on!

[@Greg_6565]

Is the mergers thr merkur mk34c and the merker 34c HD the same thing on Amazon it shows it as merkur mk34c

[@OhioShaves]

Yes

[@robmiller54]

Glock perfection ! Didn’t know they made Razors. 😄 I have the shirt in Black.

[@OhioShaves]

19 is always by my side

[@Beardman56]

Been shaving my head with safety razors for almost 20 years. Henson has ruined me since I've got it. It's so easy to use when I go back to other razors I gotta remember to be a little more careful

[@OhioShaves]

💈👍

[@kevinkales4732]

Love my Merkur. And love Gillette Platinum blades.

[@OhioShaves]

Nice 👍

[@mariosoto2256]

I just purchased both because I couldn't decide and wanted to feel them in my hand with the intention of returning one (unused of course). I was concerned about all the talk of the the light weight of the Henson. I was actually surprised of how solid and weighty it felt. The Merkur on the other hand, felt like a beast. I'm new to the safety razor and based on this alone I feel I'll likely keep the Henson and return the Merkur. However, in reading comments, it seems many choose to have a fleet of similar razors. Other than the obvious Mild vs Med Aggression, why do you think people choose to keep both razors such as these two, especially considering cost?

[@OhioShaves]

Different strokes for different folks

[@molonlabe9602]

King or not, I don't buy Gillette products.

[@OhioShaves]

💈👍

[@larrysoblotne541]

Great video! I have them both but do much better with the AL13. Not that much razor feel with the Henson.

[@OhioShaves]

Thank you much, Larry. Henson is hard to beat👍

[@Kenoji8]

I know this video was a while back, but like you had used the Leaf Shave Oil here, I swear by the Proraso Pre-Shave, myself. Like Matt from RE, I use the Proraso White Pre-Shave for Sensitive Skin (the one with Green Tea & Oatmeal) and it works WONDERS over many other pre-shaves that I've used, even next to the Cube 2.0 from PAA or the Razor Emporium Pre-Shave Bar. The only pre-shaves I really use are the Proraso, a Moisturizing Pre-Shave from the Grooming Dept. (Mojito Scent), and Van Yulay's Pre-Shave Oil (which is truly an all-natural pre-shave oil)...but the Proraso White is so slick that it turns around almost any shave that I have done and it is an invaluable tool in my shaving arsenal.

[@OhioShaves]

Great review. Thanks

[@samsacre]

I've got the same thing. Seems like that stubby gray beard is the toughest! What's your favorite blades? I'm going to follow. I have the Merkur with the adjustable shave so far I like it, but just trying to dial-in on blades I'd like to change frequently one to two shaves. Big big thumbs up.

[@OhioShaves]

🇺🇸Personna CC: amzn.to/3HrIAId

[@TheOz91]

If I were to buy one right now, I would get the Henson in a heartbeat. It's not just that it seems safer for somebody who can be slightly impatient like myself but I think the design seems a lot more elegant. It would seem that they make it so that beginners to safety razors are much less likely to cut themselves. It does seem that the Henson was designed so that it looks to belong in the 21st century in the world of gimicky disposable cartridge razors. It has that retro future feel to it, if you ask me. If you put the Henson in a sci-fi show set in the future, it might not look out of place. Plus, the aluminum construction is a win. Having went to school for aerospace, I had been brainwashed to think that aluminum is an amazing material. Jokes aside, it really does mean it can last a lifetime since it won't corrode the same way as steel does.

[@OhioShaves]

Great point. Thanks for sharing.

[@TheDeaconShaves]

Great comparison. I have both also and they do well. It would be a tough choice. Have a great day and smooth shaves

[@OhioShaves]

Thanks, you too!

[@angelonunez9832]

2023

[@OhioShaves]

Real deal

[@csbosox]

I've got a pair of 1950's Gillette Super Speed Flairs but the Henson keeps on target advertising to me and I'm intrigued. Thanks for your review.

[@OhioShaves]

You bet. I used it yesterday and it is the greatest learning tool for me. I haven’t got a good shave all year long 2024. That’s why I had to go back to my Henson to teach me the basics. Back to school.

[@nk7144]

I have watched your reviews about these two razors and I finally ordered a Henson AL-13 mild one. Iam giving up the cartridge razors. I had enough of irritations and bad shavings. The only thing that I liked about my shaving was my after shave. Thank you for your inspiration to get into the wet shaving. Greetings from Greece.

[@OhioShaves]

Glad I could help

[@stephensalterpottery]

Nice shirt my guy

[@OhioShaves]

Thank you much

[@gavrilovdenis153]

I bought those 2 as a beginner first and after first month I decided that Merkur works much better for me . Especially when it comes to my neck and etc

[@OhioShaves]

Thanks for sharing! Gavrilov

[@josephcoen6255]

Merkur 34c HD 😉👍👍👍

[@OhioShaves]

👍

[@Kweku_Smart]

Which one will you advise me to buy for my wife since, she wants to use safety razor. She bought one but stopped using it because of several cut she got from using it. Which on one will be best for her?

[@OhioShaves]

Mild

[@JoseAntonio-pb7nd]

The Henson AL13 is far superior in my opinion, I went back to my previous razors and it's simply not the same. The AL13 hits different.

[@OhioShaves]

It's one fantastic razor

[@dougprentice1363]

The music is way too annoying in this video.

[@OhioShaves]

✔︎

[@borbelyhaz321]

Hey. If both razors did a good job I guess I'd prolly go with the merkur since it is way cheaper. My 2 cents 🙂 have a good rest of your weekend

[@OhioShaves]

👍

[@robertross8565]

I would go with the Henson. Much higher quality and precise engineered. Once you buy it and take care of it, it will last the rest of your life.

[@petekadenz9465]

Great comparison video. It was good that you used the same blade as that meant it was a like for like comparison of the razors. Two questions: (1) I assume you used the Henson mild version? And (2) although you mentioned the Leaf shave oil, I don’t recollect you saying what the shave soap/cream was.

[@OhioShaves]

Leaf shave soap. Great combo

[@leekhan8948]

I got into wet shaving with mk34c too but regrettably made the hasty mistake of donating it to Goodwill after a few months of daily use and thought I didn’t want it anymore; but videos of it being used prompt me to buy another

[@OhioShaves]

Right On😁

[@casehunter8376]

I have both and love them both. I’ve tried astra green and personna lab blue blades in the Henson so far. Really love the personna blades. Which is your go to blade in the Henson mild?

[@OhioShaves]

Thanks for sharing, Case. Perfect shave with a Personna in my Henson companion video. Great blade👍

[@billytscherne4643]

Leaning toward the Timeless aluminium any experience ?

[@OhioShaves]

Yes. They are medium aggressive razors. Some people like it. They are out of Medin,a Ohio. I had one and sold it for a Rockwell 6C.

[@garys_shave]

I own the Merkur 34G, no complaints. ~cheers💈

[@OhioShaves]

💯

[@moonashraf2382]

Is the Merkur 34C better than the TRC Black Aluminum if you have to shave your neck and head?

[@OhioShaves]

Kind of a tossup. The weight of the 34C may help.

[@moonashraf2382]

@@OhioShaves Hmmm. Interesting.

[@OhioShaves]

@moonashraf2382 the TRC does give me a better shave but light razors don’t bother me

[@moonashraf2382]

@@OhioShaves Yeah I sometimes press hard with them

[@mikeisgettinupset]

I personally find Shave Oils to bee too thick and actually make my first pass MORE difficult to do. The pre-shave that has worked the best for me, if you haven't tried it, is the PAA Cube. I use the "Tube" version for the easier cleanup, but it's an awesome pre-shave. Wet your face, rube it on your face, agitate and make like a pre-lather on the face, apply your shaving soap and rock n' roll. It's awesome.

[@OhioShaves]

Thanks for sharing! Les

[@derrickhogue1868]

I have used the Merkur and I remember it as being very comfortable, fairly easy to use, clean. There is a reason why it has been around for so many years. I have not used a Henson personally. But everything I hear, see, read says it is a good razor. Maybe, hopefully Henson will be making them in 80 years. I think they will make it. Both are good.

[@lookensharp]

Henson for me

[@OhioShaves]

💯

[@OhioShaves]

👍

[@nicholassmith6405]

Great video, great shirt. I currently shave my head with the leaf razor and rock a full beard. Im trying to decide between these two razors and the twig to shave my neck and do my beard line up as I find the head on the leaf to big for this task. Which one would you recommend for this purpose? I have zero experience with de/se razors.

[@OhioShaves]

Henson

[@NathanieleWilkins]

I am in the same situation. Just picked up the Henson +++ for my beard because the Leaf does not work well for edging up my beard

[@robertross8565]

Try CREMO shave cream as a pre-shave and then use your favorite shave soap. That's a winning combination. CREMO is widely available and very cheap. I use about 1/4 tsp and add a little water to the Cremo after it's on my face so it's super slick. I have tried shave oil and don't find it anywhere near as effective as CREMO.

[@OhioShaves]

I'll look into that. Thank you much

[@robertross8565]

@@OhioShaves No problem.

[@alexjeske1211]

Great video, thank you for the comparison.

[@OhioShaves]

I was shocked

[@BxXxROCK]

Henson Rules!!!!!!!!!!!

[@OhioShaves]

Sure does

[@charlesm7646]

For my eyes, it looked like you had to work a little harder with the Henson. It seemed like it took more strokes over each area than the Merkur.

[@OhioShaves]

Getting the angle right is not easy. Great learning tool, even for me. Thanks for sharing, Charles😁

[@jmw3938]

To be fair, there was a lot of growth there. In my experience, it’s pretty unusual to have to deal with any more than a 2 or 3 day growth.

[@leber99]

Just did my first shave with the Merkur. Not bad at all. I have always used Gillette. Realized they are super expensive and its more of a gimmick. I will be trying Viking blades next along with Parker. I have a Viking Meji coming. I see where i will still need the other razor for detail.

[@OhioShaves]

Thanks for the update

[@Art-is-craft]

Meeker? A gimmick?

[@josephfenton2989]

N00b here - what is it that you rub on your face after you’ve shaved and are commenting on whether or not there is a sting? I’m imagining because I have sensitive skin I should not order the medium Henson?

[@OhioShaves]

📦Alum Block: amzn.to/3CtbNk0 📦Parker Alum Block: amzn.to/43JtUNk I would go with the mild as well

[@josephfenton2989]

Thank you so much! Your videos have been such a help!!! I can’t find Leaf here in Canada. Is there an alternative you could recommend?

[@OhioShaves]

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[@nateshrager512]

Great video, definitely convinced me to get shave oil!

[@OhioShaves]

It's so good!

[@politicalhorizon2000]

Great vid! Thank you ! =)

[@OhioShaves]

Glad you liked it!

[@caninedrill_instructor5861]

My concern about the Henson is its lightness. I'm used to letting the heft of my razor do the work.

[@OhioShaves]

It’s very light

[@caninedrill_instructor5861]

@@OhioShaves That why I'm probably not going to purchase a Henson. **Grins**

[@bogbel1]

which version of the Henson did you use for this video... the mild or the medium. I'm still trying to decide which one to buy.

[@OhioShaves]

The mild. It’s my go too

[@bogbel1]

@@OhioShaves thanks for the quick response. Think I'll order the Henson mild. I started out years ago with the Merkur 34c and still own it. It's a great razor, but I find it hard to maneuver under the nose and find the handle a little short. Also, I've never tried a super light razor. I think I might like the feather weight.

[@OhioShaves]

Great choice. Henson Shaving Code: OHIO_SHAVES Free 100 RK razor blades, add them to the cart and it will be discounted at checkout 🔗hensonshaving.co

[@AlitaAvenger]

Excellent video, thanks. Have a good Easter weekend!

[@OhioShaves]

Welcome. Happy Easter

[@kushagrasingh7731]

Which is better for edging the beard ?

[@OhioShaves]

Almost identical.

[@kushagrasingh7731]

@@OhioShaves thank you. When I started shaving in high school, I used my dad safety razor and used it for many years. Then I switched to keeping stubbles and would use a straight razor, although it’s good but takes a lot of time and precision. I was thinking of using the safety razor again and stumbled on your video. If you can suggest one out of all available for my purposes and for occasional shaves may be once a year that will be great.

[@EricDSalisbury]

Great video! My old razor (Merkur), and the one I just bought (Henson). I think I'm going to switch from the persona blades in the blue pack to the Treet Platinums.

[@OhioShaves]

Razor and blade combo is key

[@Lotus-Son]

Merkur is def a great safety razor with magnificent construction and is more efficient/aggressive. But man, the Henson is so, so, so smooth and feels like a more modern safety razor. Sooooo much more user-friendly than other razors. I always come back to it over my other razors

[@OhioShaves]

👍

[@Fetucinee]

I love my Henson AL13 mild (Version 1) but I will concede this: if it's up against 5 days scruff it struggles. It's my first choice for one, two or three day shaves; beyond that I reach for the EJ D89. That's to be expected considering the Henson's small blade gap and exposure.

[@OhioShaves]

💈👍

[@petero6743]

34c

[@OhioShaves]

Great razor. It’s in my top 3

[@baileymoto]

I may have missed it, but is this the mild or medium? Compared to the 34c, would you recommend the mild or medium? 34c works great for me. 👌

[@OhioShaves]

mild

[@dsanchez9703]

Bro, that 34c never did anything for me even with the sharpest of blades, so I bought da razorock .84 and with da gillette platinum bladdes its magic

[@OhioShaves]

Nice

[@cavemanadventure5996]

I also have them too and personally I prefer henson ,coz of henson’s handle and weight I have dropped Merkur razor coz of its handle and weight ,so when i use Merkur i have to b bit careful , so I mainly use henson now

[@OhioShaves]

👍 thanks for sharing

[@ashraqburq8597]

Which one is best because I bought online merkur safety razor 34c Thanks

[@OhioShaves]

They're both great razors. If you want the newest tech, then go with the Henson

[@AsyrafAkira]

Which shaver would you recommend for beginner with sensitive skin?

[@OhioShaves]

Henson

[@Globalizmas-Keiksmazodis]

When you need to stroke your razor 5 times over one spot to take off the beard, might be better to use cartridge razor then

[@OhioShaves]

What razor do you use?

[@coolbuddydude1]

The Merkur is significantly less expensive than Henson.

[@OhioShaves]

Sure is

[@theblackadder8104]

Is the mild Henson good for irritation? Does it need pressure to work? Thanks

[@OhioShaves]

It's excellent if you get skin irritation from shaving

[@修験真言宗大阿闍梨]

😮

[@OhioShaves]

😁

[@WaterMelon-Cat]

I personally find the short handle on the merkur gives me amazing precision. Not a fan of long handed razors

[@OhioShaves]

👍

[@RHDaveShaves]

Great full length video, as anticipated. Keep 'em coming, David! Happy Resurrection Day!

[@OhioShaves]

Thanks Dave. Will do. Happy Easter

[@bradabramson1511]

Hi, I shave everyday. For years I have used a fusion cartridge that works really well. I recently bought a parker adjustable which so far works really well. However, (don't cringe when I say this) I'm looking for either a double edge or single edge razor I can use in the shower safely that does a great job. I have a fairly heavy beard and as I said, I shave pretty much daily. The reason I'm trying to switch is because I'm trying to lose the cartridges. The Hensons you tried looked pretty good. My thought is I need the more aggressive because of my thicker beard but maybe the more mild because I shave everyday. Do you have any thoughts on the Supply razors? Might they be easier and just as effective in the shower. Thanks.

[@OhioShaves]

I would say the mild or the medium would work just fine for your face. A lot of it Hass to do with what type of blade you were putting in either razor. I've heard mixed emotions of razor supply razors. Me personally, I would not buy a razor that takes proprietary blades

[@TerryNS]

what do you like better the pre oil or the bloom water?

[@OhioShaves]

Pre-oil

[@ncg725]

I have all 3 with the ++ being delivered today. Should the aggressive *** only be used with longer facial hair? I had a few cuts with 2 day growth stubble and Wilkinson Sword Blade. So far the Mild Henson is too mild with same blade and Merkur 34c and same blade was excellent. Somewhat of a newbie here. Course hair. Semi-sensitive skin.

[@OhioShaves]

The razor and blade combination is key. The Wilkinson sword is a very mild blade. I would try more aggressive blade in a mild razor for sure.

[@ncg725]

@@OhioShaves Thank you! Hello from Buffalo, NY !

[@ncg725]

@@OhioShaves What would you try in the Henson Med. ++?

[@ashleighmyers4650]

Hi @Ohioshaves. Me from South Africa just thanking you for your helpful content. Yours and other KZbin wet shaving enthusiasts really have me convinced on transitioning from disposables. I am still researching before pulling the trigger. My choice of DEs is either the Henson AL-13 mild or the Muhle Companion as a starter kit. I was wondering if you have any experience with the Muhle Companion and maybe an opinion. In my region it's about half the price of the Henson so I'm a bit torn. For way less than a Henson I can get a Muhle Companion, LOTS of Astra Superior Platinum Blades, a very decent synthetic shaving brush, a Proraso Alum stone and a Proraso shaving cream tube. This to me says that the Henson might be overpriced or is it really almost double better than the Muhle Companion? I would really appreciate your opinion. Thanks again for all your help. 🫡

[@OhioShaves]

The R89 is a great razor. Not sure if I would start with anything else from Muhle. Price is always a factor. I just like Henson for the ease of use for beginners and experienced wet shaver’s

[@ashleighmyers4650]

@@OhioShaves Thanks for taking the time to advise. I have zero experience so I will definitely take your advice and do some more research. 👊🏾

[@OhioShaves]

Time well spent. Piece together your own kit and get what you want

[@jmw3938]

@@ashleighmyers4650 Jeez, mate. Just make a decision, buy something and get started. It’s not rocket science! Give yourself 2 to 3 weeks to get the hang of the process and you’ll be cooking with gas! And irrespective of what razor you buy, you’ll be moving on to different ones within a few months. That’s the nature of the hobby. Don’t forget, EVERYBODY used safety razors (or straight razors) before cartridges were invented. If you can tie your shoelaces, you can do this. As for agonising about the cost: it really isn’t a big deal. Seriously, think how much you pay for a pack of 8 or 12 cartridges! Now, off you go…

[@ashleighmyers4650]

@@jmw3938 Thank you. 😂🤣😂🤣😂

[@normhartzman2221]

I recently tried the Henson AL 13 (mild) and found that I was unable to achieve a close enough shave for my liking. In your opinion, does the more aggressive AL 13 medium shave closer without causing irritation and razor burn?

[@OhioShaves]

It's really all about technique. At least this is what I have found. If I do not get the correct angle on my face, it does not cut. I watch the razor closely to make sure that it is removing all of the shave soap or cream that is on my face. Concentrating on that angle is key for me getting a perfect shave. Other safety razor you can have poor technique and you'll just end up with some razor burn or maybe a few nicks. Not the case with Henson.

[@sterlingcampbell2116]

If you can't get a close shave with the Henson mild then your technique needs work

[@OhioShaves]

💯👍

[@radnukespeoplesminds]

$70 seems a bit steep for someone new to safety razors

[@OhioShaves]

What are you currently shaving with?

[@Art-is-craft]

There are razors that cost over $200. Razors that cost more tend to be able to last decades. $70 that last 15 years is not that much. Probably will last longer than the device you are writing your comment on.

[@sernani99]

I have the merkur 34 long handle.

[@OhioShaves]

Nice

[@sernani99]

@OhioShaves I've never tried the Henson when I bought the merkur it was on sale for 34.99 15 years ago, and I use the astra( made in Russia ) what's the price on a Henson? Any promotional offers?

[@OhioShaves]

They don’t go on sale. They’re offering 100 free blades when you use my code.

[@simpsonmbm]

I went with the Henson and the Merkur 23C as my first two to get started in the world of quality wet shaving....love them both but would say there is something special about the feeling of the Hensons. Was this with the Henson + (mild) or Henson ++ (medium)?

[@OhioShaves]

mild +. It works well on my face

[@BartBuzz]

Both razors would be good for starting out. My daily driver is the 6S but I do use the Henson when I have skin irritation and blemishes. Also, for me, the Gillette Black and Gillette Nacet are the same in sharpness and shave quality. And the Nacet is a third of the cost. In fact, I tested a Nacet and got 9 shaves with no change in performance. But I normally only use my blades 3-4 times.

[@OhioShaves]

Nice. Thanks for sharing, Bart.

[@BartBuzz]

@@OhioShaves I should have said the Nacet blades cost a third less. Two-thirds the cost of Gillette Blacks.

[@donaldstepp4850]

Do you shave you head with a safety razor? So far I have used some knock offs I bought from TEMU and all of them where better than cartridge razors

[@OhioShaves]

Yes. Rockwell 6S video coming this week

[@maxschmidt666]

Thank you for your comparison. The concept of the Henson looks interesting, but I'll definitely not let Aluminum close to my skin in combination with sharp blades. It's still unclear how Aluminum affects your body, but why take any risk on that when you can simply avoid it? Also, for a razor, it just makes sense to have some weight. I like my Muehle razor, but TBH my favorite razor so far was an 8 bucks no name razor from Amazon.

[@OhioShaves]

If it's not broken, don't fix it

[@TheTastefulThickness]

Pot metal LOL wtf

[@OhioShaves]

Zinc Alloy