Top 10 Safety Razors (2022)

[@randelrobbins1408]

The Henson was a big game changer for me. I have terribly sensitive skin and fairly thick facial hair. The Henson had enabled me to enjoy wet shaving. So much fun!

[@Latherhog]

Glad to hear the Henson worked so well for you!

[@74norris]

I don't buy many razors, but I did pick up the Blackland Era and I am really glad that I did.

[@mmobley011889]

Wow, watching your list of favorite razors for the last year is just eye opening to how much has changed and how the hobby has grown in the past few years. I had not looked at any new soap makers and razor makers for the past 3.5 years and the new offerings look stunning and sound intriguing. Thank you for the list and insight! Matt

[@Latherhog]

Glad you found the list helpful, thanks for watching!

[@DePistolero]

I've used some 10$ YUMA razor for about 10+ years... just recently found out the whole new world of safety razors and YT channels, and I bought rockwel 6C... and my dear beard.... what a shave.... so thrilled now every time my beard grows :D

[@iainbush]

I took kind of a different route, but mostly ended up in the same place as you. I don’t have the titanium, but my Blackbird polished SS is my favorite. A full 24 hours on it doesn’t feel like my beard is growing back as fast as with any other. I can also take more passes with it than other razors without irritation. My number two and three in no particular order is the Overlander and the Yates 921 with the H plate.

[@Latherhog]

Awesome, thanks for sharing your experience and your picks!

[@greenerick]

Leaf Thorn single-blade razor plus great video

[@Latherhog]

Thank you for watching!

[@lastshadow9351]

Nice list and I have to thank you for getting the Henson Aggressive going and I really appreciate being part of it. I have quite a few razors, but the three I use the most are the Leaf Thorn, a custom Gibbs turned up to six, and a hard-to-find Gillette Aristocrat. The Aristocrat is a strange one because it doesn't look that different than a regular model, but it's far smoother and way more efficient and it kicks my Toggle to the curb. Whenever I use those two vintage razors, I always makes me question if we've made much of any advancement in modern razors. But that's just me, those work great my needs, and it might be different for someone else.

[@ivermec-tin666]

Last Shadow, which Aristocrat is it then? Made in England I presume. There are so many different aristocrats...

[@lastshadow9351]

@@ivermec-tin666 It's a made in the USA Gold Plated TTO model with two smooth bands. I'd have to ask Josh (Subie Shaves) because he knew right away what it was. Pat.OFF. I don't know Gillettes very well but maybe that helps a little. I had just used my Gibbs 15 and then my Toggle, so when I used the Aristocrat, I was pretty amazed how it compared to those two. I like it better than the Toggle.

[@ivermec-tin666]

@@lastshadow9351 Thank you for the reply. The Gibbs is regarded as a smooth shaver with lightish blade feel across the entire adjustment range, and forgiving in regards to shave angle. What level of aggression would you say this Aristocrat exhibits? The Aristocrat name was used for so many years, so many iterations, and in both the USA and the UK, so it really spans the gamut of characteristics over the years, but always to a high grade of refinement, fit and finish. I certainly have a fondness for my English made Aristocrat Jr. It is like a Gillette Super Speed or Rocket made without regard to the bean counters. It can also be viewed as an Aristocrat made for those without deep pockets as it is nickel plated, not rhodium. It is very smooth, lovely in the hand with good heft, and more efficient than a 40's style SuperSpeed. The mechanism is smooth as butter. It is just a delight to operate.

[@lastshadow9351]

@@ivermec-tin666 I agree the Gibbs is really nice razor and I use it turned all the way up. This Aristocrat has similar blade feel and efficiency. I picked it up recently with a bunch of other razors from a collection and it looked almost brand new in its original box. I was really surprised by how well it shaved compared to any of my other Gillettes( Fatboy, Toggle, Red Tip SS, Early SS, and several others.) It must have a different clamping angle for the blade that's more like the English versions.

[@jmizer88]

Curious to know if the titanium henson would be higher on this list. 🤔

[@Latherhog]

I didn’t notice much of a difference other than weight between the two Henson aggressive razors, so I would say it’s interchangeable

[@GrandmasterHobbyist]

but how do you feel abt the blackland vector vs the blackbird?

[@Latherhog]

Two totally different razors with different properties, but I love both! The Vector would be included in this list if I didn't limit it to 1 per artisan/brand.

[@GrandmasterHobbyist]

@@Latherhog yeah, I have both ordered supposedly arrived today. Both in the titanium versions

[@rauldelarosa2768]

I had asked the guys over at Henson to do the same... Henson wasn't interested in doing aggressive when I asked them to do that..they obviously have a titanium razor that is aggressive.. That's why I don't have an issue with yaqi ripping off their head into a stainless steel razor head that's similar to them.. I also disagree with with their marketing tactics but I know many like them and continue to like them . Lately I've been on a shavette kick as of late.. They're oftentimes affordable and fun to use...a good shavette can be had for around twenty dollars so and fancier ones for sixty dollars and up.

[@onepassben]

Great list! GOATlander woooohooooo, I'm surprised by #1 but then again I tried the REDlander and man, those light razors are so nimble. Perfect video to start my day! Thank you

[@MrDanijelho]

Nice list. 3 King c gillette, 2 Wilkinson buterfly, 1 Muhle r41.

[@Latherhog]

Thanks for sharing your favorites!

[@Woodyt]

don't know how the brass compares to the titanium but I'm looking at the brass right now. Nice review of top 10

[@Latherhog]

Thanks for watching, I’m working on my list for 2023, stay tuned!

[@footballgeek]

6S is in HoF! I feel the same way! I've never had a bad shave with it... Cheers!

[@dave_dhannoo]

Gold plated 34G, man I need one of those!

[@chrissimpson6978]

I have a couple Gem razors and my Ever Ready 1912 is definitely my favorite of that type. I strongly agree with putting the Rockwell 6S near the top. Its my go-to razor!

[@stevemendel275]

Nice list. I bought a Blackbird Ti lately as well after someone did a fantastic mirror polish on it! Enjoying it a lot so far.

[@Latherhog]

Ooh, a Blackbird Ti with a mirror polish?? Very nice!

[@biggusd534]

Great top 3 specially Can’t argue with those at all.

[@billjohnsonseattle]

Great picks, although I would personally place the Henson *much*higher on the list as it is one of the most nick & cut free razors I’ve ever used. I have the Overlander on order as well, as there are just too many awesome reviews on that one to pass up…. Looks like I may have to get the Blackbird someday too….Looks awesome.

[@bowtiern8292]

Thanks for the list. I have shopping to do. My list changes too often. My first best razor was the Al +++ you set up

[@Latherhog]

Thanks for watching and I’m glad to hear you enjoy the Henson +++

[@RonnieYates]

Nice list Jon. Surprised at the #1 given your criteria but that is what exceptions are for. I just picked up the SS BB and am impressed so far. It does have a unique feel which is nice. Also got the Lite plate on the way to try cause why not. 34c, 6s and Gamechanger I’d say are the work horses of shaving esp the 6s. It ain’t the prettiest but The Tank always gets it done smoothly. I like the 5/6 plate myself. Karve is always great - looks and shave. Have a good one.

[@Latherhog]

It surprises me as well, but I don't think there are a lot of razors that perform the way the TiBird does (let's say moderate blade feel with high efficiency) as most razors usually can be categorized as simply mild or aggressive.

[@magnoliamike]

At one time I had basically an open comb version of the 34c. It’s a 2 piece and looks EXACTLY LIKE the 34c but it’s called the 11c

[@pjwroblewski]

A very nice list indeed.

[@robertsolovy69]

Good video Jon. I have a Gamechanger .84, too - although I use my Ikon handle with it.

[@Callahangonefishin]

That's an excellent list Jon! Surprised / not surprised at your # 1... people love that Blackbird, I haven't tried one yet, but my Vector is just unreal. Razors I used to think were a bit aggressive for me seem to be working a lot better as of late, maybe just paying more attention, lol. Have a great weekend, Cheers

[@Latherhog]

Thank you for watching, if I didn't limit it to one razor per artisan/brand, I'd include the Vector as well!

[@keithperry602]

Jon nice list 👍. I have a Blackbird SS and it's my favorite also. Have a Merry Christmas 🎄 and God Bless 🙏

[@mellymelshaves]

Jon-Jon! Enjoyed this one! All I gotta say is I absolutely LOVE my BlackLand Blackbird Ti so much! Have a great weekend my brother 👊🏽 ❤️ ONE LOVE from Beautiful Pensacola, Florida ❤️ 👊🏽

[@Latherhog]

Thanks for watching Mel, hope you have a great weekend as well!

[@billjohnsonseattle]

I think Rockwell 6S would be a much better razor if they offered it with a high polished smooth finish. I did not like the bead blast finish and that was one reason why I sold mine, in addition to my Hensons outperforming it. Definitely a great razor, just not a favorite of mine with that rough feeling top cap.

[@Latherhog]

I've definitely heard that opinion a lot in regards to the Rockwell 6s! Glad to hear you found the Henson though.

[@Ali4451_]

Awesome video - thanks. I love Blackland as well. Just awesome designs and a terrific company.

[@abrahamsolis9760]

Have you tried the satin finish titanium blackbird? I'm thinking of purchasing one soon, but I'm worried of the finish. A lot of people seem to point out imperfections with their finishes :/

[@Latherhog]

I have heard from others the same comment, that they weren't fans on the finishes on the razors. Luckily this doesn't affect the shave itself.

[@abrahamsolis9760]

@@Latherhog I actually went through with it and purchased one. It's really nice! Your videos convinced me that it shaves unlike any other razor, and I have to agree! I'm very happy with it. The blasted finish looks stellar. I feel zero regret having splurged on one

[@Latherhog]

@@abrahamsolis9760 That’s so great to hear, I hope you continue to enjoy it!

[@dave_dhannoo]

1st spot good call - the aethetic, blade feel, the way it's been machined - you also expect it to be excellent at that price point.

[@DE_Razor_Shaving]

Really like the handle of #6! 😮👍🏼🔥

[@RedBeardShaves]

Nice list man! I cannot even remember the last time I used a vintage razor. I should get em a whirl again!

[@Latherhog]

Thank you Josh! I like the variety of modern AND vintage, but definitely side towards modern.

[@viningscircle]

A good solid list. As I would expect with others, it evolves as the collection has new additions. And for me, the new razors easily top vintage ones, though I have a good number of DE and SE ones which I enjoy using. One I would definitely have in a top 10 would be the Tatara Masamune. I also like the design, with the stand that has the finest tolerances of any other stands that even the top tier moderns have. Even though we are mentioning the shaver itself here, this for me is an indication of the company's level of craftsmanship. And also Razorock's line--be it the Lupo, the SE Hawk, and their aluminum Baby Smooth just to name a few are simply the best value for your dollar.

[@Latherhog]

Those are some great razors in your list!

[@thesaskshaver]

A great list Jon! Many there I haven't tried but you know I'm primarily a straight razor guy. I have to say I'm currently loving the Vector though. It would definitely be my top SE right now.

[@Latherhog]

Thanks Lyle! The Vector makes my list as well if I’m not avoiding doubling up on a brand!

[@davidmoneyfitnessjourney320]

Good video man, I enjoyed it and I do have a few Gillette vintage razors I have never tried a Gem. Might have to give one a go now. Also, I'm not surprised about #1. I love my Blackbird Ti.

[@Latherhog]

Thanks David! Definitely give a GEM a try when you find the opportunity!

[@ajgYT09]

... and now he has made the Blackbird LITE ... Titanium version soon in production.

[@manecobeirao]

Very good !!! ( Brazil )

[@r55mannyp]

Have you tried the Goodfellas smile Styletto? If so what are your thoughts on it?

[@Latherhog]

Sorry, I haven't tried any of the razors from Goodfellas!

[@JMac.]

A mighty fine list Jon!

[@Latherhog]

Thank you JMac!

[@JMac.]

@@Latherhog you’re most welcome Jon!

[@labgeeathlete]

Henson 1

[@Shafty1609]

Nice list Jon. 5 of the razors are Canadian.

[@Carzone2021]

And still they cost more to Canadians then razors made outside Canada..what a irony 😂

[@xmattx315]

Have you ever considered a budget razor list? These all seem amazing but I can’t justify dropping $100+ on some of these non-vintage razors. (maybe going further with razors like the .84 and merkur?)

[@Latherhog]

I think that's a great suggestion, are you thinking of a list that keeps the budget under $100?

[@xmattx315]

@@Latherhog yeah sub $100 would be ideal. I’ve got a few in mind

[@bluegrassman3040]

Buy you a good Merkur razor and keep that one for life. I use the Merkur 15C, which you can get new for less than $40.

[@GrandmasterHobbyist]

vintage razors cant even compete with the high end modern ones so why would you spend more on those lol..materials are worse, designs are worse, etc

[@bluegrassman3040]

@@GrandmasterHobbyist if your comparing double edge razors to “modern” cartridge razors, their is no comparison. Cartridge razors are horrible. They pull and tug more than they cut. Multiple blades in the same direction gives you more irritation and ingrown hairs. You’ll spend more money in the long run, because the cartridges for those cost much more than the DE blades do. That’s why so many people have switched back to DE razors over the last ten or so years.

[@edspamjunk3023]

I wonder what the top safety razors are by sales? Probably razors by Baili, Weishi, Qshave, etc. Even on Amazon Merkur 34c has 6K reviews. Weishi Nostalgic has 10K.

[@Latherhog]

On Amazon and some vendor sites, you can sort by popularity and you are totally correct.

[@dsanchez9703]

Im sha ing with da Razorock gamechanger .84 as we speak and prolly going for the Rockwell 6s later in da year

[@dave_dhannoo]

Definitely use the 6S more, 100%. I'm 6 plate kinda guy. :)

[@keithosmond5730]

Canada is well represented here - three designed and made in Canada (Henson; Gamechanger; Overlander) and two more designed in Canada and manufactured in the US (Drakkant; 6S).

[@freethinker5225]

No butterfly top loaders or adjustables? I'm actually astonished 😲

[@Latherhog]

I just don’t think they shave as well as the razors that made my list.

[@alexmitros3873]

Slant razors are miles better choices 😊

[@Latherhog]

Not a fan of slant razors.

[@johnblack8187]

I can’t believe non of the Viking blades made the top ten. These are some of the nicest safety razors on the market.

[@theluxuryshavinghobbyist]

I have 2 and 3 on your list. Nice selections Jon!

[@Latherhog]

Thanks Glenn, what's your current favorite?

[@theluxuryshavinghobbyist]

@@Latherhog I think I have to go with the Overlander.

[@Latherhog]

@@theluxuryshavinghobbyist Nice!

[@FJBsaidcornpop]

🪒Razors matter My favorite Gillette labs but what matters just as much as your razor is the shaving cream (my choice Kiehl's Ultimate Brushless Shave Cream) you use, and if you heat your shaving cream and how long you leave it on you face to let it soften your facial hair and how many days it's been since you shaved. For me if I can go a day or two in-between shaves I get a closer shave. I put my shaving cream in the sink in the hottest water as possible and let it set for about 10 minutes and I apply it as soon as I get out of the shower and I usually let the hot shower water hit my face for a minute right before I get out and put on the warm shaving cream, let it sit on face for about 3or 4 minutes and shave. To finish I use SANDALWOOD AFTER-SHAVE BALM👈Amazing but pricey. Smooth as a baby's butt everytime! 🧱🪒

[@Latherhog]

Thanks for watching and sharing your routine!

[@FJBsaidcornpop]

🪒Razors matter My favorite is Gillette labs but what matters just as much as your razor is the shaving cream (my choice Kiehl's Ultimate Brushless Shave Cream) you use, and if you heat your shaving cream and how long you leave it on you face to let it soften your facial hair and how many days it's been since you shaved. For me if I can go a day or two in-between shaves I get a closer shave. I put my shaving cream in the sink in the hottest water as possible and let it set for about 10 minutes and I apply it as soon as I get out of the shower and I usually let the hot shower water hit my face for a minute right before I get out and put on the warm shaving cream, let it sit on face for about 3or 4 minutes and shave. To finish I use SANDALWOOD AFTER-SHAVE BALM👈Amazing but pricey. Smooth as a baby's butt everytime! 🧱🪒.