Rockwell 6S Adjustable DE Razor - Abbate Y La Mantia "Krokos" saffron-based shaving soap

Another wonderful shave, in which I get to use the Rockwell 6S adjustable DE razor and the flagship soap of the Abbate Y La Mantia line, the "Krokos" saffron shaving soap.
** Kit **
Rockwell 6S, baseplate 4 and 2
Gillette "Yellow" SharpEdge blade (8th shave? Maybe I should start keeping better track...)
Rod Neep custom boar brush
** Intro **
What do Jason Bourne and James Bond do for fun? "Sypgame" by Parov Stelar!!
** Links **
Rockwell Razors - rockwellrazors...
Abbate Y La Mantia - abbateylamantia...
Rod Need custom shaving brushes - pensoftheforest...

[@ktheodor3968]

I have been following your videos for some time now (months) Michael, and I can say that this came across as perhaps the most enjoyable shave you've had for a long time. They say, a bad tradesman blames his tools. This can often be true, but in this shave all of the tools were highly exceptional, hence the results.

[@mfreedberg]

This was a good one, not gonna lie!! Excellent soap and razor and an overall satisfying shave -- sometimes it all just comes together and then we all know how it ends...one of THOSE shaves!

[@999wilf999]

Audible feedback on that razor is amazing! Could practically hear it cut every hair!

[@mfreedberg]

+Richard Wilson also a great microphone I attach to the Gopro :-)

[@andrewwilson9617]

I think the 6s and 6c would be better called an interchangeable razor more than an adjustable. I have both the 6s and the 6c. Love them both.

[@T-R.e.x]

Tried today the Don Jose. Man, what a post shave feeling. NO soap can offer this feeling I believe! And the slickness, from another planet! Buffing is easy!

[@mfreedberg]

I told you so...I TOLD you so -- these are very good soaps, and the Laureato and Matteo 9:11 are better than the Don Jose.

[@antonioportolesi7721]

can't say enough how much I love your reviews. thank you michael

[@mfreedberg]

+Antonio Portolesi (Northern Shave Guy) you are very welcome! Lots more coming, I am going to go back to weekly videos to knock down the backlog.

[@DismontDeSire]

Awesome. That's i call a super-lather). Very close and comfortable shave. Enjoy the video like I shave myself). Thanks a lot.

[@kylemassad7614]

Honestly, one of my favorite modern razors in terms of quality of both the shave and manufacturing, innovation, and the price. 100$ is not bad for a full stainless razor like this. You can get them in sale sometimes too

[@thanozzz3]

I have the preshave Krokos of the same brand and it is absolutely marvelous. It feels like an extra protective layer on your face. You should try it and let us know what you think about it.

[@danilobernaschina1842]

I love my 6S, 6C, also plate 4,4,2 if third pass needed and Abbateylamantia Vulcano or Buttero. According to me a TOP combination with a blade you love, for me stainless steel

[@dominikrzepa6671]

I'm very glad that you have reviewed my beloved razor (Merkur 34C HD was dethroned unfortunately) - I have been a backer since their first campaign and I admire Gareth for what he has achieved. The setting 1 is so mild that it is really hard to get a cut or nick (but it's possible i you press hard razor to your skin). Setting 4 became my favorite setting for a 2-3 day beard growth. Thanks Michael for great video!!

[@mfreedberg]

The fact that you can start with the 4 and then move down if you like is a big selling point to me, especially given just how smooth the 4/2 combination is. I am going to enjoy this razor for years and years, and then some lucky bastard will enjoy it for even more years and years.

[@DismontDeSire]

Very good and solid razor. I'm glad to see how good this saffron's shaving soap works. And I began to use short strokes on the curve of your face thanks to you. This is a very useful technique of shaving, I thank you.

[@mfreedberg]

Are you referring to the buffing strokes? If so, glad those are working out for you - I remember seeing that in a Mantic59 video and it works really well for me *with certain razors*. You may find that not all razors let you buff as easily, and the other thing to look for are soaps with really good slickness once wet - if you can get that nice slick layer going, buffing works wonderfully!

[@DismontDeSire]

I saw Mantic59 video, but your video i saw first. And like it.) Thanks a lot for such large, informative reply.

[@19bootsy68]

This soap is soooooo expensive here in the UK...it's like £35.00. I may not comment that much but I really do enjoy watching your reviews.

[@mfreedberg]

+19bootsy68 thank you for watching the videos! Yes, this soap is very expensive, but you are getting something made with one of the most expensive spices in the world.

[@brianb.2894]

Hi Michael. That Krrrrrrrrrrrrokos seems like a great soap. I`m just mad about Saffron... shes just mad about me. And that Rockwell really "rocks well". Sorry, I won`t do it again.

[@mfreedberg]

+Brian B. Saffron under your skin (grin)?

[@stephenmkeer]

A perfect shave with excellent shave gear,thank you Michael.

[@mfreedberg]

+The Suffolk Shaver you are very welcome, and yes, this is good stuff. We wetshavers have it pretty good today.

[@The_One_BABA]

Couldn’t agree more on the fact that it bugs me that these people will make razors and not take pride to stamp date codes! Rex Supply does a FANTASTIC job with this! Matt takes the Gillette date code process and it’s a sign that he is not just “milling metal” he actually cares about the history and has the vision. Others need to mimic this (Blackland for example, charging an arm and a leg for their brand new revolutionary in their mind Osprey… but can’t laser in a date🤷🏼‍♂️🤦🏻‍♂️) just seriously grinds me🤣

[@albertcastro409]

Good shave and the blade sounds sharp. Good review. 👍🏻

[@mfreedberg]

Great razor and a very solid investment!

[@JJ-rf7dg]

I have 6s and love it. I don't understand why the colors cost more. That doesn't make sense.

[@chrisryan8863]

to your comment about store decorations and items -- in my area (N.H.) the retail stores and home centers have Christmas items before the end of the summer!!

[@mfreedberg]

+chris ryan no shame :-) That is really kind of nuts.

[@MrJffranco5777]

I'm watching this video a second time for two reasons, first I laugh everytime you say Krrooookos, and second I just ordered the 6s and can't wait for it to arrive. Love your videos keep up the great work.

[@mfreedberg]

Thank you, really appreciate that! Hope you love your 6S when you get it in!

[@Thomas.A1]

Beautyful boar brush, very tempting. But i will resist ... for a while. Semogue 1250 now...later the SOC and then...lignum vitae 😉

[@mfreedberg]

+Thomas A. I hope your 1250 lasts longer than mine did, but if it fails the SOC is a great choice. Then, later, get the lignun vitae and love it even more!

[@Thomas.A1]

What happened to your 1250 ?

[@jensebu78]

Hi, i have an idea (maybe everybody knows already..). I think the reason why they don´t make 1,2 / 3,4 / 5,6 together is because they selling the 2C or 2S. It has only one baseblade included. That is the 1,3. So you have middle and very mild. That is was the most people would buy,or? So it is cheaper to manufacture it like that. Better than have one system for the 6S and one for the 2S... Great Video. Thanks for sharing! I think it is a great Razor. Looks awesome!!! Greetings from Germany, Jens

[@mfreedberg]

I think that the 6S was their first razor, though, so not sure how the 2C or 2S would really fit into the picture. I don't know what the logic is behind the plate numbering, but whatever it is, the 4/2 works great for me!

[@shave-a-thon3415]

Good point about the identification of the Rockwell 6s. Not only should it be engraved with the model # and a date code, but there should also be a production run code (2nd, 3rd, 4th series). Rockwell could also update this razor with new plates that can be purchased by current owners. Is there any reason why a series of open comb plates couldn't be issued for the 6s or an extra aggressive plate with settings #7 and #8? I'm kind of sorry I didn't get in on the original Kickstarter campaign for this razor. As I understand it, the original investors received the first one that turned out to have imperfections and then were sent this revised version. As I've written elsewhere, I can't understand why someone who loves shaving would balk at the price difference between a $50 chrome and a $100 stainless steel razor, yet think nothing of blowing $100 on dining out for a few meals that are flushed away the next day. The Gillette Yellow is a favorite blade of mine...after the Gillette Silver Blue, Polsilver SI, Wilkinson Sword (made in Germany version) and Astra SP. I used to scoff at those on forums who said they had over 10 shaves with a blade until I recently retired a Wilkinson Sword that gave me 20 (twenty!) BBS, 3 pass + shaves!

[@dominikrzepa6671]

I backed Rockwell on their first KS campaign (and second and third as well). My first razor was OK very mild in general, then they sent me second one (FOR FREE), but this one was too aggressive (the head's edges were filed too much) and then they completely reinvented their razor and it was made with MIM method and was a much better quality build and yes they sent that one to me for free (but I bought some extra stuff like razor stands, blade banks, etc. to cover their expenses). So to me Rockwell is a great, caring about their customers small business with impressive attitude and great ideas (have a look at their Model T Adjustable model on Kickstarter page, they will have shaving brushes and some extra stuff as well in the near future). Thumbs up for your achievement with Wilko blade!!

[@mfreedberg]

I am glad I picked up some more of the Yellow blades, and I think I might be making a bulk order soon - wonderful smooth blades! I do understand the fact that people balk at the price, for how different can one razor really be from another? Well, a LOT! You get a great deal for your $100 with the Rockwell, and that $100 will serve you well for decades.

[@hughjanus1135]

I just got some Wilkinson and I agree awesome blades

[@Fred_shaves]

Is the R6 plate on the ROckwell agressive? Is there any other razors you have used that ypu would compare it with, in terms of efficiency and aggressiveness?

[@mfreedberg]

I don't think it is really all that aggressive, truth be told, and the head design does a good job controlling the blade edge -- #6 is nothing to be scared of at all. It would a touch or two more aggressive than something like the DE89, but nothing bad at all -- a good balance between aggressive and overall efficiency!

[@danmastronardi5158]

Michael you touched on my one criticism of the razor.... The aggression scale. I noticed many users were very comfortable using the 5 and 6 plate. Lovers of aggressive razors like myself don't have an option with this razor. With 6 settings, I wish they would have the highest setting approach the (for many) the uncomfortable levels of aggression and leave settings 1 to 5 for everyone else. R41 lovers are left wanting....

[@mfreedberg]

Six is not super-aggressive, I will absolutely grant you that. If you need something like the Fatip or R41, then this is not for you. I do wonder if perhaps Rockwell might come out with a limited run of a 7/8 baseplate for those who love the feel of the Rockwell but who need something a little more aggressive than the 6 baseplase can offer.

[@danmastronardi5158]

I agree the 7/8 plate would be nice

[@borbetomagus]

Given the full strength of saffron in the soap, does this ingredient add any significant benefits that you do not experience in other shaving soaps? Quite an expensive (but wonderfully performing) soap. Who knows if other artisans will incorporate saffron. Just wondering if there are other Tcheon Fung Sing-related (or other branded) soaps with comparable or better benefits. Very nice five-piece stainless steel razor at a great price (with blade gaps supposedly ranging from 0.38 to 1.12 mm -- though another Rockwell blog suggests 0.2 to 0.79 mm).

[@mfreedberg]

+borbetomagus I am not sure what the actual benefits are, but I will say that my skin really likes this soap. Well hydrated, smooth and supple, and great shaves for the last two weeks. I am not sure if the scent will be for everybody but the quality of the soap makes it a very attractive option. The Krokos is *much* more expensive than the other three options, so I can understand the integer in getting a soap with additional benefits. I have enjoyed every TFS soap I have used, but this is supposed to be a different base, made to his specifications. I f do not remember the original soaps having the same excellent post shave feel, though.

[@borbetomagus]

Maybe one day I'll get one of their soaps... Too many soaps already! Hopefully you'll get a chance to review the Rockwell Model T fully adjustable TTO (chrome/brass) razor when it's released. Undoubtedly both are a great shaving investment.

[@mfreedberg]

+borbetomagus really trying to stop buying more razors, I was fortunate enough to have Rockwell provide this one for review. Perhaps I spend that money on their TTO model...

[@borbetomagus]

You've probably already seen that Rockwell is coming out with a less expensive version: the '6C' chrome series razor (currently $45 for pre-order) in three chrome finishes -- one being gunmetal, should you ever decide to part with your 'Testina Gentile'. Then again, you already have the stainless steel '6S'.

[@punisher7473]

I really need to try those soaps. Great shave sir, is that Captain's Choice bowl the regular size bowl or the large?.

[@mfreedberg]

+Jose Gonzalez it is the regular size, which is plenty big enough for me!

[@SILKYSMOOTHSHAVES]

What color is your captains choice lather bowl I ordered the rawhide I like the color of yours is it the gunmetal

[@mfreedberg]

I got it for review, I did not pick it out, but it is a deep blue, closest to the current cobalt option. If I had to pick one right now, I would go for "Sandstorm" and then "Tempest"!

[@andrewwilson9617]

I think a better description for this razor would be an interchangeable razor. I have also seen a few videos that say that the 6c glides much better across the skin better than the 6s. Can any confirm or deny this problem. Great video.

[@germanshepherd13]

I have both and both glide well. c only seems better if doing side by side and even then minimal difference.

[@bobjones8321]

I’ve heard the same thing many times.

[@hughneek12]

Looks like a very fine razor indeed, well worth the asking price. Gives a good shave. Excellent video and appraisal, Michael.

[@mfreedberg]

+Hugh Neek $99 for this razor is a great value, especially considering just how good a shave it offers! The razor market right now is really getting very competitive, but the 6S remains easy to recommend.

[@hughneek12]

Michael Freedberg Convinced-I've just ordered one.

[@mfreedberg]

+Hugh Neek let us know what you think once you get it, and be sure to experiment with the different baseplates.

[@hughneek12]

Michael Freedberg Hi Michael! I have received my 6s and I have had a few shaves with it and it's a very smooth, versatile shaver and has quite a nice weight, comfortable secure grip and excellent finish. Highly recommended, not only for old timers but also for beginners, the only razor you'll ever need, as a beginner and for life. I have an old tough beard (I am 67) used it up to now with Personna blue blades and it has performed very well using all six variations of head. I have used the '6' variant on a weeks growth and found it no trouble at all, although I have found the '1' a bit mild, but I have found the '2/4' head just right for the most of my shaving, the '4' side for the first pass, and the '2' side to finish. All this is my personal taste and needs of course, but this razor will cope with any beard or skin type and do very well indeed. All in all a great razor, do not shirk from the big price tag, it may seem a lot of outlay to the initiate, but when compared to fusion etc. razors it will pay for itself in no time buying the more economic DE blades and will give a far superior shave to anything plastic, lasting for not only a lifetime but a few generations if cared for. Do not hesitate, go out and buy, money well spent.

[@shawng746]

Hey Michael. I really enjoyed the video. I've seen several of your videos and you have a new subscriber. I haven't been wet shaving too long (1 1/2 months). Ive already become addicted to it and been buying new stuff like crazy. I did the same thing when I got into high end headphones. Before I take it too far id like to find an "end game" razor. Something that will satisfy me enough to stop me from buying new stuff constantly, or at least slow me down. I think the Rockwell might be the razor to do just that, with it being interchangeable and all. What are your thoughts about that? Would you be satisfied if it was your only razor? Or one of the only two you had?

[@mfreedberg]

+Shawn G the Rockwell is an excellent razor that will both grow with you and last for a long time. Solidly built, looks cool, excellent handle... All for $100. For many it would be the last razor they buy, but for people like you who love headphones or watches or fountain pens... Likely not :-) Get it anyway, you will not regret it.

[@brianh2287]

The Rockwell 6s/6c are the apex of safety razor shaving. There literally is no better razor, you need nothing beyond this. This is the end-game. The magnum opus of modern shaving.

[@mfreedberg]

Well, I have a feeling that the Rockwell fans will loudly agree with you, and everybody else will have THEIR favorites :-) I will say that the 2/4 head on the 6S was a truly excellent combo for me. I did give mine away, though, to HDShaves, because he needed more stainless steel in his life.

[@ightimmaheadout290]

sucks that they have tea stains though

[@Mark_Ocain]

Yeah I use the word 'configurable' to describe my 6S. Great little razor I'll be bound.

[@T-R.e.x]

I ordered the 6C Gun Metal finish for 57 euros in Greece. Beautiful! How long it will last? Do you think if I take care of it, washing it thoroughly will I have any problems with it? All of my razors are zinc alloys I must mention. What do you think of it? I have also Fatip Grande, R41, Merkur 42c, Parker 97R, Wilkinson Classic. Is it so much aggressive on the 6?

[@mfreedberg]

I think it will last a long time, not as long as the stainless steel but that is to be expected. Wash and dry it thoroughly, don't treat it roughly, and all will be well. It is not really aggressive on 6, you can feel the blade but not with the same naked feel of the R41 for example. The 6S or 6C stay smooth and comfortable at the highest setting, without that feeling that the blade is not under good control. I think you will get years and years of great shaves out of that razor!

[@T-R.e.x]

And if I take care of it and never dropped down it still won't last long ?

[@mfreedberg]

It can certainly last a long time, but stainless steel should last longer. Use it and enjoy it, stop worrying or you WILL drop it 🙀

[@T-R.e.x]

Just arrived! Oh my God, excellent finish! What A RAZOR! And the gunmetal chrome it's marvelous! I see always buffing ATG under the chin area. I will have that in mind! PS After this video and while reading the comments most of us ordered one Rockwell, either 6c or 6s! Rockwell owe you from now on!! PS2 Krokos in Greek means the yellowish part of an egg!

[@MrTelecaster101]

Taking nothing away from Rockwell.. calling it adjustable is really a new version of an old theme. If you know how to "Shim" a razor you can basically make any 3 piece an adjustable razor. It's been done for ages. I've even Shimmed TTO razors with good results. Just my two cents. I say this with true respect! Rockwell makes a great solidly built razor.

[@mfreedberg]

True, you can shim a razor, but the razor head was not designed for that blade angle. I think it works out well in many razors, and is a cheap way to try to modify how aggressive a razor is. I think Rockwell deserves some credit for coming out with a different approach to this problem -- and the razor's overall performance is a testament to the design. With that said, I need to try shimming!

[@christopherach4402]

Another great video Michael. I very much enjoy all of them. I recently shaved with Crumiro and Laureato, thatYou reviewed previously. They are really outstanding soaps. speaking of razors, in Your previous video You shaved with Merkur 180 and I mention in my comment, that I shave with merkur 180 and with merkur 34C. You mention that there are better choices then 34c. Since I am relatively new to wet shaving, would You be kind enough to advice me what would be a better choice regarding razors, perhaps Rockwell S6 or some others like Edwin Jagger or Muhle. Also thank You very much for letting me know about merkur blades. I agree with You, they are not the best. Astras and Polsilver seem to work better. Once again thank You for fantastic videos as always. I would greatly appreciate Your recommendations. Chris

[@OMrRapture]

FWIW, I find the more "aggressive" blades work well with the Merkurs. I've had very good luck with the Feather, my go-to blade in my 38C.

[@mfreedberg]

If you are looking for something a bit of a step up, then go for either the Edwin Jagger DE89 or the Muhle R89; both are middle of the road razors and offer very dependable results. If you want to try something a bit different, go for the Fatip Gentile but avoid the gun metal finish (grin)! If you are looking for something a bit different, you could certainly look to get one of the current crop of slants (Fine, or Maggard, or iKon), or you could go for the Rockwell - it really comes down to your budget and your shaving needs. Are you looking for something on the higher end?

[@christopherach4402]

Thank You so much Michael for Your response an kind advice. Yes, I am looking for something on the higher spectrum of DE shavers and any advice from You would be greatly appreciated. As always I very much enjoy all Your videos. You have a great and rare talent to clearly explain and convey what is important in wet shaving and I greatly appreciate that. By the way I learn to shave properly from Your great series of videos 1to 4 for beginners. Thank You very much again . Chris

[@fruitarian]

Pro tip, use a dull blade with an aggressive razor and you can save a ton of money on blades.

[@zvezdanrankovic1841]

great vid! how was the rockwell blades?

[@mfreedberg]

Not bad! Good first four shaves and then done - a bit rough in the fourth shave. I have three more to use in other razors, I wanted to see how they did generally.

[@Zakdayak]

That first pass lather was downright pornographic.

[@mfreedberg]

Glad you enjoyed that! Maybe TOO much (grin)!!

[@caesardifranco3648]

Got the 6s few weeks ago. awesome razor. think the weight of the razor adds to the efficiency of the shave. How do you get 8-10 shaves out of a blade? 3 seems to be the norm...

[@Riyame]

It all depends on the blade and razor. Some give me 3-4 shaves but my main blade can easily give 8+ comfortable shaves with the Rockwell. There are some people that can get 100+ shaves from a blade. There is a thread on Badger & Blade of people that try for that milestone.

[@mfreedberg]

+Caesar DiFranco I am not sure, but lately blades are lasting longer for me even though I feel like my beard is tougher now. I will shave past that first rough shave and the blade seems to smooth out again. I am routinely getting 7 or more shaves our of some blades, and this might be in part thanks to the excellent soaps I have been using. The weight can make the razor more efficient if you manage that weight, really watch the pressure and allow the razor to glide over your skin... the added weight can help!

[@OMrRapture]

What a shame you don't get a big saffron hit out of the Krokos. For that kinda money I wanna smell the goodness. Thanks for the video.

[@mfreedberg]

It is there, certainly, but not in an overwhelming way - I am not sure if that would in fact be very pleasant given how strong a spice it is. The scent is distinct and upfront, but not like a saffron punch in the nose.

[@blank5210]

This razor does not seem convenient enough to justify the price. I'll stick with my Futur.

[@Fibonaccisghost]

Thanks for the video. I don't own either an adjustable or a Rockwell razor so I might kill two birds with one stone on this purchase!

[@mfreedberg]

If you go get one, be sure to post an update and let us know what you think!

[@germanshepherd13]

When I die my wife will most likely pitch my rockwells, fatboys, slims and about 30 other new and vintage razors in the trash. I have no kids to leave them to and she can't be bothered to sell them .make me sad when I think about it.

[@Fertuu]

sell them at ebay and divorce your wife

[@fruitarian]

I'll give you contact information. I'll be the son you never had.