Start Here! Beginners Safety Razors

[@JonnyBravo0311]

I definitely do not suffer from RAD... though I do a whole lot of window shopping. I started shaving with a safety razor about 12 years ago. At the time, I had no clue where to begin. Naturally, I did what everyone does: look to KZbin for answers! Found this guy with a Chicago accent wearing a dew rag on his head talking about clearing the runways. Ended up buying a Muhle R106. I used that razor until this year when I finally decided to try something else. I ended up going with the Henson AL13. If the Henson had been available when I first started this journey, I would have picked it up. The razor is absolutely forgiving. I can whip that thing around my face without ever worrying about cutting myself. I do a three pass shave and get BBS every time. After getting the new Henson, my wife asked how I was suddenly getting so much smoother than I had been. I've actually taken Geo's tagline of "Have a great shave, have a great day!" as a bit of a mantra. I use the shave as my own detox session. Rather than treat it as a utilitarian chore, I treat it as some "me" time. Can I whip out a shave in 3-5 minutes? Sure. I don't, though. Instead, I take my time with the preparation. Whipping up a lather is meditative. Warming the face with hot towels. Pre-shave. Brushing on the lather. Even the shave itself. I use the time to center myself, and to set myself up for a great day. It's all thanks to this Harley-riding, dew rag wearing, former electrician from Chicago. Thanks, Geo!

[@geofatboy]

Thanks Jonny! I can tell from your comments that you are deff a long time viewer and supporter. Thank you very much for sharing and your continued support! I'm glad you're enjoying your shaves and I had a little something to do with it!

[@stevenroche9874]

I totally agree with you about the AL13 ! It is light, totally safe, and I use it for my neck, mustache area, chin, and upstrokes on my cheeks. I have a Merkur 23C for the heavier work. It makes sense to me that one razor is not best for the whole shave. Best regards.

[@AndreHBuss]

Go for the Henson AL13

[@mikeisgettinupset]

The Henson is SO good. I think it's the best of the list honestly. The way it locks the blade locks and torques the blade gives 0 blade chatter. Wonderful close irritation free shaves even with the aggressive model.

[@jaycowper]

I do agree, Les Vegetables.

[@HülaguHan63]

No irritation no cuts… perfect razor ! New version is even better

[@geofatboy]

Thanks for sharing your experience Les.

[@peterseyler7295]

Just ordered from you…WOW! The shipping, lightning fast, the care put into packaging my purchase, magnificent. I take pride in knowing that I bought these items from you, and not from some big company. I can tell you take pride in what you do as well. I love the videos, they’re extremely educational. Keep up the fantastic work!

[@geofatboy]

Awesome Peter! That's how we do it! Thanks for sharing.

[@Argy_V]

Just to add, these razors are not great just for beginners but for experienced ppl too. Perfect for your everyday needs. Started a year ago with a KCG just for fun. Then a Merkur slant and an R41 came but still the KCG is my daily razor. No irritation at all, easy and enjoyable shaving. Now a Muhle 89 is on the way 😊

[@yanikem6655]

I use a safety razor for head shaving which needs to be able to cut really closely but without nicks and cuts. Usually use a 1960 Gillette Fatboy on setting 5 with Feather or King C Gillette blades. Bought the new redesigned Henson AL13 Medium which arrived today - just shaved with it and it is PHENOMENAL. Smooth head, no irritation, cleans easier than the original design. Recommend this 1000% for beginners.

[@geofatboy]

Thanks for sharing. Head-shavers Unite!

[@bobsfriend360]

Can’t go wrong with German razors ❤

[@geofatboy]

German Engineering... BMW... Porsche... Say no more....

[@BartBuzz]

This video will definitely help anyone wanting to start shaving with a DE safety razor. I was pleased to see that you added the Rockwell 2C. I have the Merkur 34C and seldom use it after I discovered the Rockwell 6C. The 2C is a good recommendation but the 6C is the one I recommend whenever I'm asked by a newbie which safety razor to get. For only $20 more, the 6C is like getting 6 razors-in-one. At some point they will be ready for a bit more aggression/efficiency and the 6C will provide that.

[@10floz30minutes]

Rwl 6C? Price? I have seen about two different prices for it. One at about $50 and the other at about $120. What is confusing is why such a large difference for the same product?

[@BartBuzz]

@@10floz30minutes The 6C is a chrome version made in China and the 6S is stainless steel made in the USA. I have used both and for me they shave the same. Originally, the 6C was $50 and the 6S was $100. The economy (inflation) has resulted in price increases. I see the 6C selling for $60 and the 6S for $120. I bought my 6S on Amazon Prime Day last year for $80 before the new prices were announced. You may be able to get better deals on eBay or from someone wanting to sell theirs. Both the 6C and 6S are superb safety razors. I bought the 6S because I gave my 6C to my son-in-law who wanted to try DE shaving. In my opinion, the 6C or the 6S is the best safety razor for anyone...newbies and veteran shavers. The 6S will last forever! Hope that answers your question. You can tell that I'm a bit biased when it comes to those Rockwell safety razors 😉

[@geofatboy]

I guess I was trying to keep it more minimalist which Is why I went with the 2C instead of the 6C. Less plates less complicated and less $ for the newcomer. Thanks for your input Bart.

[@geofatboy]

Are you comparing thebit.ly/RockwellSN 6S to the 6C or 2C? They are 3 completely different razors at different price points.

[@BartBuzz]

@@geofatboy I was really comparing the 2C to the 6C. I understand that you were trying to keep the cost down for a new shaver. But the 6C only costs $10 more than a 34C. So, I was only observing that the 6C would be a safety razor that can be used when new shavers are ready for more efficiency/aggression.

[@mr-sam-jax]

oh boy this is the 2nd oldest intro which is one of my favorites ❤️🌹😍

[@geofatboy]

Love it!

[@10floz30minutes]

King C. Gillette Safety Razor is another good choice recommendable for a beginner. Reason, mild and readily available at many Walgreens stores.

[@kwl189]

It's also basically based on the R89/DE89 from Muhle and Edwin Jagger. Both razors designed in a collaborative effort, well known and highly rated in providing a mild, efficient and smooth shave with great durability.

[@10floz30minutes]

@@kwl189 Nice to , this "based on R89/DE89". This helps in figuring what razor to buy next. But realistically, would a person find KCG, R89, DE89, Edwin Jagger, to be the same, give the same shave, feel the same, find no difference among them?

[@geofatboy]

Thanks for sharing.

[@kwl189]

@@10floz30minutes I think it would make a good video for Geo or anyone in the shaving community. Geo has always loved his Muhle R89 twist. Not a cheap razor but really well made. As far as I can tell the R89/DE89 were definitely made with both companies around the table. Too many similarities compared to the KCG for it to be a random coincidence. It's basically the same angle, same design until you look at the undercarriage of the main block which doesn't impact performance. Remember KCG undercuts R89 and DE89 on pricing and has strong availability. Gillette are not going to want to suffer the costs of R&D for a whole new razor they can ill afford to price high and expect men to buy given the damage their reputation has suffered, their lack of recently history and credibility in the DE razor market and decades worth of abnormal profit made from cheap crappy plastic razors. They make the handle in China and the main razor head in Germany apparently.

[@brenthooton3412]

I got the R89 as my first and I'm happy with it. One plus vs the 34C is that the handle is longer, for those of us that are used to shaving with a cartridge razor (had been 20 years using a Mach III). The Rockwell website says the 2C (and 6C) are made in China, not in Canada.

[@10floz30minutes]

Thanks for the confirmation. I was going to ask about this, based on the discussion statement in the video.

[@geofatboy]

Thanks, you could also go with the bit.ly/Merkur38CSN 38C which has the same head as the 34C but a longer heftier handle.

[@glenthomason1428]

I've just dropped cartridge shaving, but man I had no idea of the vastness of DE shaving, it's a hoot.

[@roemerjonker284]

I was first scared to shave my beard and my first shave was with a cartridge razor and it was good first and now my main razor is a king c Gillette safety razor

[@TurianShepard]

Great video! Been considering jumping over to safety razors for a while now but felt a bit overwhelmed by all the different options out there! Big help, thank you!

[@geofatboy]

Exactly why I made this one. Thanks!

[@byronturnbow2189]

I’ve been using a Merkur with a feather blade for a couple weeks. After 3 passes in all directions I still don’t have as good a shave than with a fusion in one pass 🤷‍♂️

[@peterkaufmann8579]

Great video Geo! Best vid I've seen in a long time for begginers. Shave Sharon in the No. 1 retair of fine razors, no doubt! 🍻🍻🍻🍻🍻

[@geofatboy]

Thank you for your props and support Peter!

[@brokegamer5587]

early gannnnnnggggggg! love your vids mate,keep it up love and support from straya😁

[@geofatboy]

Thanks so much!!

[@ThecrosseyedTexan]

I would personally add to this list of Parker 78r. I like that razor quite a bit

[@DaveShaves44]

Parker 22R I would not recommend for beginners it’s very aggressive. I use it for 3+ days growth. One of my fav razors. Parker’s razor blades are also very nice!

[@geofatboy]

Thanks for sharing!

[@ProCorona]

Congrats to 80000:subscribers 🎉

[@geofatboy]

Thanks very much!

[@rickcole349]

I have a Merkur 33C that I bought 2 years ago. I doubt I will get RAD (razor acquisition disorder) because I'm a cheapskate and I don't need another razor. I'm trying a couple of different blades right now-- Gillette nacet and Persona Platinum Chrome.. They're good, but I think I'll stick with Feather blades. A company close to me here in Canada sells 100 count Feather blades for $52 and 200 packs for $72. I bought 100 and I know they'll last close to 2 years. I get 5-6 shaves from one blade. I flip them after 3 shaves to get a fresh edge for 2-3 more shaves. Thanks for the videos and tips. I appreciate them.

[@geofatboy]

Thanks for sharing Rick!

[@viarnay]

I was so upset of wasting a ton of money buying multiblade cartdrige razors but a couple of years ago I found the wilkinson plastic razor. I wasn't expecting too much of it but it worked so well that I jumped to a razor rock german 37 slant with Astra platinum blades a couple of months ago and never looked back. Classic shaving is not only cheap as dirt but works very well even better when you get used to your face.

[@geofatboy]

Thanks for sharing!

[@shawngregory1429]

Fatip Testina Gentile was my first. I enjoyed it, but preferred the DE89 that I eventually bought. The DE89 has lots of cool handle options and is generally blade-friendly. You can’t beat it for an entry-level razor.

[@geofatboy]

Good stuff Shawn!

[@brianreigle7905]

I first started with the Mekur 34C and while I have a few Parkers that I like I always go back the Merkur 34C as it just gives me a smooth shave but not too aggressive to nick my face up. Do want to get an Edwin Jager DE89 in the near future and also would like to get the Parker 22r.

[@DaveShaves44]

Parker 22R is one of my fav razors I’d highly recommend. Love Parker razor blades too! I use my Parker 22R every Monday and it mows through my weekend growth effortlessly. Fantastic razor

[@geofatboy]

You can't go wrong with any of those razors.

[@beyproctor7673]

Great list and video as usual Geo. I still use the still use the Merkur 34 G HD. It is so nice and smooth! I got the chrome version from you when I first started de shaving. Letter I gave that one to my nephew and got the gold plated version. Same great shave but prettier. I use it when I have already been shaving daily.

[@matta8034]

Hi Geo. Got to love those sweet quality razors, from top brands. Take care Geo.

[@geofatboy]

Thanks 👍

[@666dynomax]

Id like to try that Henson getting lots of ads for to it. Why do you think the handle is so long?

[@normchristopherson5799]

I learned to avoid any razor with a smooth handle. I need knurling of some kind to provide a more secure grip. As a first razor I also suggest not getting a slant razor unless you want to draw blood. There are many fine inexpensive first razors. Once the razor bug hits you, you may find yourself in this as a hobby. Lots to explore in the world of wet shaving with a DE razor and blade not to mention all the wonderful shaving creams and soaps.

[@geofatboy]

bit.ly/AlphaRazorHandlesSN You can always add a "grippy" razor to your 3 piece razor...

[@johnbehneman1546]

THANK YOU SO MUCH!!!! ALL ARE GREAT CHOICES!!!! GREAT VIDEO AND EDUCATION. SOMETHING TO CONSIDER. THANKS FOR SHARING!!!!

[@geofatboy]

Thanks John!

[@michaelweigel4822]

Well my humble razor collection has grown over the years and I have quite the variety going back to the very earliest of the 20th century to modern and my go-to razor every day of the week whether I have several days growth or doing the daily drive routine is the Merkur 34C HD. It's simply a phenomenal razor and gets the job done perfectly in two passes regardless of how long I've gone without a shave. Some will try to say it's a mild razor and it is in the sense that I have never received a Nick from it unlike the rest in my collection but don't let that dissuade you from picking this wonderful little razor up. It's affordable and gets the job done. So that's my honest opinion and I bid you all.. Save on my brothers!

[@geofatboy]

Save on or SHAVE on??? Thank you for sharing your experiences!

[@michaelweigel4822]

@@geofatboy oops! I stand corrected Shave on my brothers... And a plug for brother Geo.. Save on your shaving supplies at Shave Nation! Have a wonderful Sunday my dear brothers!

[@aaroncheatwood1]

Parker 22R Best I've ever had, been going strong since 2013

[@geofatboy]

Nice! Thanks for sharing.

[@pontusn]

Just started with my Henson (from Shave Nation)! Loving it so far, but I could see developing RAD...

[@geofatboy]

It's catchy!

[@Shaverboy516]

Excellent guide for anyone wanting to start out:)

[@geofatboy]

Thanks RK!

[@peacetoallx]

hi from australia thank you

[@geofatboy]

Love it! Thanks

[@terrym1065]

Geo👍👍 Excellent choices for a beginner wet shaver, almost like you know what you're talking about..😉 Each one has many pros and little to no cons, great job brother. Thanks, enjoy!

[@geofatboy]

Almost... Thanks Terry.

[@alirezaazimipour3637]

Thanks Geo! Was wondering if you could kindly show up include a few of your favorite/popular adjustable razors.

[@geofatboy]

Great suggestion! Thanks!

[@mrkitewine7700]

Is the Leaf Twig also worth considering to start with?

[@geofatboy]

bit.ly/LeafShavingSN Yes.

[@B-rad1382]

Great videos! But over all what would be a less expensive safety razor for myself as a beginner.

[@B-rad1382]

I also only shave about twice a week, I'm looking for something that's I guess on the more mild side

[@geofatboy]

Any of the razors in this video...

[@pkj77]

Also Henson has tried making the angle at the perfect spot

[@geofatboy]

In search of perfection!

[@leeedwards6133]

What blades are best for beginners wanting a mild shave?

[@geofatboy]

Try a shavenation.com/collections/de-sampler-packs to see what works best for you.

[@alazeri6208]

merkur 23c is missing

[@geofatboy]

Also a good one!

[@r1master]

I swear you were saying "tap to battom" hehehe... accents are awesome!

[@juanmanueldiazvillegas9739]

He visto varios de tus videos porque quiero iniciarme en este mundo. Tengo la siguiente duda. Es posible iniciar con la muhle rocca o con la edwing jagger 3one6 o son muy complicadas y es preferible iniciar con alguna de las de este video?

[@dsanchez9703]

Muchos recomiendan el Rockwell 6c, yo uso el razorock .84 es muy bueno y agressivo pero no muy tanto. Te recomiendo que uses las navajas fillette platinum son muy buenas pero prueba otras

[@juanmanueldiazvillegas9739]

Gracias 👍🏻

[@geofatboy]

Definitivamente podrías empezar con una de esas navajas. Son solo un afeitado un poco más agresivo que los que se muestran en el video.

[@danielrivera3603]

Henson was my first

[@geofatboy]

Virgin maiden voyage!

[@danielrivera3603]

@@geofatboy but i upgraded to a rockwell 6c

[@jamesruska5721]

xpersis safety razor is also decent option for newcomers, it comes with 100 dorco blades for less than 30 bucks. Short and heavy.

[@darrenwilliams6626]

Hi Geo Have you shaved with a blackhawk v3 razor & feather professional blades yet as I've just bought both but yet to put it in to use

[@geofatboy]

We don't carry that razor.

[@d.rose_779]

Rockwell 6c adjustable safety razor????

[@geofatboy]

More plates than the 2C...

[@d.rose_779]

@@geofatboy Just purchased the 6c myself. I started with a 34c. Wish i would have gotten the rockwell to begin with

[@juleswinnfield6930]

Geo out of these which would be the mildest....or even rate them 1-6.

[@geofatboy]

This would be the mildest: bit.ly/HensonAL13RazorSN Go with the Mild version.

[@RSS_754]

Nice video Geo!!

[@geofatboy]

Thanks!

[@RetroRogersLab]

I have a small bump, blemish, beauty mark, on my chin that I nick almost every time I shave. I have the Henson AL-13 Mild. Any tips or videos for shaving areas with blemishes?

[@10floz30minutes]

I can't remember any, but my suggestion is either try a disposable safety razor/cartridge razor to see if that helps, or use an electric razor JUST on the troubling bump or mark.

[@DaveShaves44]

I have a mole on my cheek I just use a cartridge razor for that one tiny spot. Doesn’t nick it

[@geofatboy]

Glide lightly over the top of it. Simple...

[@Lucky-dk9lu]

My everyday, go to, even when I'm traveling razor. The first DE razor I got from geofatboy and continues to do a wonderful job ! ! !

[@hardinmichael1981]

What razor is that?

[@garryclarke7695]

Very helpful. Do you happen to know which razor company, by sales, is the world's biggest?

[@geofatboy]

Not sure exactly but I'm guessing it starts with a G.

[@elie6769]

Henson or parker

[@bobstover2239]

Cool video!

[@666dynomax]

What about teens just learning. Should start them right in to de? Why not I guess....

[@9SecondStreetMustang]

I gotta say, 34C’s are very nice. 😇

[@SuperSikanaama]

Nice video.

[@geofatboy]

Thanks!

[@cashau2965]

...to me the 34c is the winner....👍

[@geofatboy]

Thanks for sharing Cas.

[@Phatdaddy1986]

I want that shirt

[@troygarrigues7082]

Umm!!deja vu. Maybe. He could be testing us😂😂

[@geofatboy]

Deff not a re-upload. I might make a newer version of a video, but I don't believe I've ever uploaded the same video twice. But, there's always a first time :)

[@N00b344]

nice

[@АлександрЛогвинов-ь4ы]

Hello from Ukraine, for me for a beginners it's very expensive razor, show you tops with price 15-100 dollars

[@geofatboy]

Hope you're doing Ok over there. Stay Safe!

[@enriquepena5206]

3.4 oz who said that? 😅

[@geofatboy]

👻👻👻

[@rehanrassi9410]

Lololll

[@mellymelshaves]

First ❤️ 👊🏽

[@themadcoachman]

Congratulations, collect aGold star 🌟

[@Shaverboy516]

Melly Mel!🌞

[@dsanchez9703]

Sup Mell!

[@mellymelshaves]

@@dsanchez9703 ❤️❤️❤️😍😍😍😍🤙🏽🤙🏽🤙🏽🤙🏽

[@geofatboy]

Legend!

[@tanthaman]

U went back to the original intro cos no one liked the new one.

[@geofatboy]

I'm mixing up the old and new intros and outros, you'll be seeing them all again.