I agree.:) I have about 300 of them.:) For those interested: amzn.to/2QeFMD0 Also, I was tipped of by a fellow wet shaver to keep an eye on connaughtshaving.com/treetplatinum.html. I bought the Treet blades when the dollar to pound favored the U.S. side. I got a really nice deal then.:)
I first got hooked on Derby, especially Derby Extra, quite nice balance between sharpness and affordability. These days I'm more of an Astra Green fan though, they really have that magic Goldilocks zone - sharp as can be but somehow still feel very smooth and comfortable. It's like a Feather blade but not as violently aggressive against your skin.
I like the Derby blade a lot.:) Always give me a smooth shave. Since making this video, I've learned they make another, Concord blades.:) Right up there with the Derby Premiums.:)
I used the Derby Extra blades for the first time today on my 3 day old beard (not super heavy ) and wow really liked them. Going to try a few more blades on 3 day old beards to keep everything equal and see how they match up. I did like how smooth they were for me. Really ended up with a nice shave. I was smooth after two passes but decided I had time so did a third pass and was baby smooth.
I bought the Treet Black Beauty 100 pack specifically because I read a review that rated them 0/5. Great that we have a hobby so cheap. For me it was 3/5. Great in Merkur Futur for 1st 2 shaves, not for third, but moved it to the Feather Popular razor and still had a great 3rd shave out of it. What other hobby do you buy something only because someone says it was their worst and they hated it?
I am still loving my green Derby Extras for face shaving. For my baldy head i use the American Personna blades. The Derby greens are very compatible to every razor. I had no good experience with the Astra blades. Don't know why but they don't fit to my skin. I will test the Israeli Personna Platinum.
Hey Mark! I didn't go for the Vikings blade and feather blades due to their high price, I remember you recommend me those for my medium to coarse hair and sensitive skin. Now I use derby Premiums along with my parker variant with a high medium to high number setting and I find them to do a good job. Yes sharper is better for medium to coarse hair but when you have sensitive skin it is a little challenging to get both a bbs shave while not nicking your skin at the same time. I still haven't tried my remaining sharks blades I have in my parker variant but for what I can remember shark wasn't as close as the derbys. In the past I had a Parker 99r razor and I think I used my money wisely to get a Parker variant instead of buying several other razors for someone who honestly cannot afford all of that at that moment. I plan on sticking on stuff that works for me for wetshaving without going overboard and spending a lot of money on.
Hi, Nabeel.:) I like the Derby Premium blades.:) Nice and smooth for me and will give a close shave.:) Glad they're working for you. Shark blades have more an edge, IMHO.:) I'll sometimes use a Shark blade in a milder razor to up the efficiency just a bit.:)
@@MarkSzorady yeah I still have to try the shark blades in my parker variant, they didn't work as well in my parker 99r razor. Blades act differently in different razors so who knows maybe Sharks work good for me in an adjustable parker variant razor.
Being fairly new to Traditional WetShaving {9 mo}, I still know a lot and watch tons of informational videos and here are the blades I’ve tried so far... Feather Gillette silver blue PolSilver Muhle, And Derby Professional for my Shavette.. Not bad choices eh? 💈😁✌️💈
@@MarkSzorady Derby Extra suits for me best with green Prorosa shaving soap including eucalyptus oil and green Prorosa pre shave cream. All have a green packaging. Green for go like the traffic light.
@@technischemaschinenfabrik5882 yes, saw your other comment regarding Proraso green and white. Was wondering if eucalyptus has good effect on your skin.
Great video. You listed a lot of my favorites Dorcos, Derbys. I didn't know about the more premium varieties of these. You know, people say, no blade is too sharp. Well, a Japanese company developed ceramic shaving blades -- no metal at all. They tested them and guess what? Everyone who tried them got nicks and cuts galore. Just too darn sharp.
Thank you..) One of the reasons I love the wet shave is due to the variety of baldes available.:) Of course, this also applies to razors, brushes, soaps, creams, etc. It's a great time to be doing the traditional wet shave.:) I've not heard about these ceramic blades Interesting bit of history.:) Thanks for sharing this.:) (I'm willing to bet someone is still developing them.:))
Just a couple of comments.... Great video. I really enjoyed it. First about the Derby Extra, I love them as well. But there are 2 versions. One is great. The other is terrible. If the Derby logo runs vertically it is a "new" Derby Extra. They are smooth, sharp and wonderful. If the Derby logo does not run the length of the tuck, they are the "old" Derby blades which are not good at all! Derby is now making an even better blade called Derby UMTS. They are just starting to be marketed and are even better than Derby extras. Derby also makes Bluebird which are harder to come by and not discontinued as many have said. They are being targeted more at the professional market. They are simply the second best blade ever! I believe Viking's Blade blades are made in Isreal by Personna. Great blade. Too gentle for me. But a great blade none the less. Now about Dorco....... Dorco Korea purchased new equipment which can make very thin blades. Their old machinery went to their plant in Vietnam. The Dorco St-301 out of Vietnam is exactly the same as it was before. So St-301 blades and the new St-300 Super Platinum blades are made on the old machinery in the new plant. The Primes and another new blade the Dorco Titan are much thinner and sharper than the ones that come out of Vietnam. But, the new blades are so thin that it is so easy to get cut. I find that they work best in 3-piece razors. Take a Dorco Prime and a Merkur 23C and it cannot be beat. Shaver Boy is the best Chinese blades you can get. I recommend them to almost everyone. In fact, I think I recommended them to you! They are also the thickest blade that is commercially available, that I have ever found. They are sharp. They are smooth. They are cheap. Astra SPs are generally respected, but the Astra SS (which is not coated,) are even sharper and nearly as smooth. I urge you to try one. Finally about Shark. They actually make 2 blades. The Shark SS (which you have featured in this video....) and the Shark Chrome which is even a BETTER blade than the SS. For the record an uncoated blade is usually sharper than a coated one. A good stainless, uncoated blade can also be smoother, but grinding it to the tolerences necessary is difficult. So many of this type of blade are not very good. The best would be the Rapira Super Stainless and the Astra Super Stainless which are made in the same plant and on the very same equipment! As a manufacturer I have tried so many blades. There are only 4 that we will carry. The Dorco St-301 (which is sort of the "Chevy" of razor blades. Shaverboy - which is the Datsun 510 (an economy model, but a great economy model. The Rapira Super Steel (think Saab.....) and the Zircon Platinum which are the best blades that I have ever shaved with and we now have in stock and will be selling as of Tuesday. They will be sold by the blade and will cost $0.18 each. Loved the video. Really. Sheldon
Sheldon, thanks so much for all the terrific information!:) Dorco ST-301's are rthe chevy of blades.:) Yes! Perfect description!:) And thanks for the background info on the Vietnam plant, etc.:) yes, you did recommend Shaverboy to me.:) Like 'em a lot!:) And the Zircons are wonderful and will be in the next razor blade video.:) Thanks for the kind words.:)
Hey Mark, I just got 100 Rainbow de blades and I used it in my Americano razor and I must say it was a smooth and close shave. Topped it off with Clubman after shave. Virtually no sting at all. Great blades. They cost me $8.00 off eBay.
Tim, thanks for this.:) Now on my list to try!:) for those interested: On Amazon: 100 RAINBOW SUPER CHROME DOUBLE EDGE SAFETY RAZOR BLADES by Lord: amzn.to/2P1FjCV 40 Rainbow Super Stainless Double Edge Razor Blades by Lord: amzn.to/2IqqfgS On EBAY: Rainbow Double Edge Razor Blades - 100 Count: www.ebay.com/itm/Rainbow-Double-Edge-Razor-Blades-100-Count/202595517981?hash=item2f2ba2461d:g:4tgAAOSwEwpbjcKY
In my R41 I mostly use the Treet "black beauties", my Fatip OC gets Treet Platinum, my R89 gets Treet Dura Sharp. The BIC and Feather blades go in my Mühle Companion and Rockwell 6S. Treet are pretty good. The Black Beauties are very mild, the Dura Sharps seem just a little below the BIC and Feathers for sharpness, the Platinum are good mid-range sharpness blade.
Wow, super informative Mark. Thank you for sharing your thoughts on these razors. As a new wet shaver I trust your suggestions since I too prefer a milder shaving experience. Cheers sir!
Hi, Jon Fornal. Also try Lord blades. Very inexpensive and a terrific blade. Itried them aftr I made this video. Lord Platinum Double Edge Safety Razor Blades, 100 blades (5x20): amzn.to/30RB3vZ (affiliate link)
There should always be a fine balance between a sharp blade and a smooth cut. This is why with our DE 5 Razor, we designed it for sensitive skins and for course hair. Would love to hear your thoughts on it.
Derby has been my go to blade for last 5 years. Probably because I was given 200 of them early in my wet shaving journey and have never felt the need to try another blade because they work great. Consistently get 3-4 great irritation free shaves from a blade. Recently got a pack of Astra platinum so will given them a try.
dude its crazy how nice they shave. i payed 4 times as much for a hundred pack of wilkinson sword (i recieved by accident from amazon) and they're really nice but just to sharp for my face i think. i get much more irritation and notas consistent. im relatively new to wet shaving though
I have used many brands: Gellitte 7o'clock ( the green not the yellow ), Gillette blue platinum, Gillette Nacet, Feather, Merkur, SuperMax, and Astra, I think the smoothest and best of them is Astra Platinum blades and I am getting a minimum of 7 shaves with a single blade, I am shaving every other day and changing the blade every two weeks. I believe it is the best value compared to the number of shaves per blade. I am enjoying your videos, keep it up, Mr.Mark.
Astra blades cut me up like crazy. So far the best blades ive tried are Personna Chrome platinums. They feel like they have the safety of a derby blade and slightly less sharp than a feather.
Treet Platinums, Derby Extras, and Gillette Silver Blues are my favorite so far. The Treet Platinums work great with Barbasol Sensitive Skin, where most blades struggle to cooperate with canned goo.
Nice video! My personal favorites blades are Lord Super Chrome, Shark Super Stainless, and the Dorco Primes. It seems like we have similar tastes in blades! I enjoy all these blades and keep them in rotation but my "daily shave blade" is defiantly the Lord Super Chrome. It's sharp but not too sharp where the slightest mistake cuts me up, but still gives amazing results. I do have about 60 Derby blades lying around that worked well in a razor that was previously my favorite but it doesn't match well with current daily shave razor (West Coast Shaving Midnight collection 77B). l'll slowly work thru them; but I might give the Derby Premium blades a try! Please stay active on here and stay uploading!
Got some Dorco (Vietnamese) blades at a discount store last week, and have 4 good shaves on the first one. I will try for five of six shaves just for fun. Thanks for the info. Lots of blades are made in Russia, so it’s good to know that good blades are still made elsewhere…
I am new to DE shaving. I bought 100 Derby Extras for £8. Using a Muhle R89 Grande. A very smooth a forgiving shave. At that price you can just ditch the blades after 1 or 2 shaves. Meaning you get ultra close sharp shaves every time for pennies. It's amazing blades of these quality are so cheap. Yet miles sharper and better than well known cartridge brands. When I'm a bit more proficient would like to try Feathers as heard great things about them. Hope they are not too viscous! Another great review, tempted by the Derby premiums now as well ...
Al, great to hear that the TWS is working for you.:) Part of the attraction and fun is trying different blades.:) For me, Feather blades are quite sharp. I tend to use them only in mild razors.
Mitch, my pleasure.:) This video does have some great info. Since making it, I've discovered so many more great razor blades. Feel free to go thorugh the other videos on the channel to see some of the others I've used. Btu, like you, I found that these served as a great introduction to the traditional wet shave.)
thanks to your analisis , this time I will buy pack of 100 blades of star , and another of street , since you mention they are very smooth , regards robert
Hi Mark- Nice overview of your favorite razor blades; thank you! That’s a great list! My current list of top five blades from #1 working down would be: Kai, Gillette Nacet, Feather, Personna Med Prep, and Pol Silver. I would like to try Shaver Boy and the Zircon blades, as well. I hope your week gets off to a great start and all the best!
Mike, Pol Silver blades are all the rage in the wet shave world.:) I had a few and need to get some more!:) Very nice blade!:) Thanks for the nice words!:) Have a great week!:)
So many blades. I've bought and tried several. So far I love feather and voskhod. Dorco's were too mild for my hair but gave zero irritation, just took forever to shave with. I liked astra blue, but hated astra green, every green blade I used gave me terrible razor burn. Waiting in line for me are derby extra and premium, shark stainless and chrome, and Bic super chrome I think there called. I have pretty coarse hair, with sensitive skin. I think that's why feathers are my favorite, they get the hair quicker and easier than anything else, which means fewer strokes. It should be known that I go for bbs every time. My last bit of opinion, voskhod has given me the smoothest shave by far, the first time It didn't even feel like it was cutting, but it did a great job.
Hi, Roger Samaniego. Very helpful info.:0 Thank you.:) Dorco are defintley a bargain blade and not in everyone's wheelhouse. I get that. Feathers are sharp. Glad to hear they work for you. I use them, but only in a mild razor like the Godfather Stonehenge. Gives me a great shave!:)
@@MarkSzorady it amazes me how different experiences can be person to person. I've never tried the godfather, but I'll look into that. I'm using a '59 Fatboy right now, and started on the vanderhagen. I love the Fatboy, but I'm definitely looking to expand my collection. It's addicting.
@@MarkSzorady their is definitely something to be said for a 60+ year old razor that is still very popular, but I've been eyeing the Vikings blade emperor Agustus. It looks very nice, has a hefty weight, almost double the Fatboys weight, and is pretty affordable. After having it for a year would you recommend it?
I just used the Derby Extra blades and they were incredibly smooth, and like everyone says not very sharp. Virtually no irritation, a minor little nick on the chin, but it was a great shave. That's the thing I like about wet shaving is trying new blades and new razors. Derby Extras will definitely be in my rotation, I'll have to try the premiums in the future.
Most say that about Derby's because of their pre 2017 blades. When they retooled for the premium line they also changed the extra blades. They are thinner, sharper, and more comfortable. If you get your hands on older Derby's you'll know why people hate them. The older ones have the writing left to right on the short side of the pack. The newer are blue (10) or green (5) and the writing is the long way in the packs. Older ones sucked to me. Just grabbed a pack of the new ones. And the premium to try too. Also got my hands on the newest "USTA" (master) blades by Derby that haven't really hit the US market yet. In the video when he shows the 5 pack Derby's, you'll see the writing goes the long way. They are the new ones.
Mark, I am a 70 yo that just got into wet shaving. I started with the Parker 92R which included 5 Parker razor blades. I also got the Van Der Hagen Scented Luxury shave pucks. My first shave was extremely close and at first very comfortable. I have somewhat sensitive skin especially to some shaving soaps. Barbasol absolutely irritates me to heck. As a result, I have come to use Noxzema as buffer between my face and most canned shaving soaps. Recently I have been using Cremo shave creams. Extremely slick, no irritation, and it eliminates the need for Noxzema. After my first DE razor shave, even thought the initial feel of the shave was close, BBS and comfortable, note I did use a post shave shave balm, I begin feeling an irritation after about an hour. I trying to decipher which one of the following might be the root cause; 1. Soap Irritation or 2. Razor Irritation. My next shave will be with the Cremo shave cream to eliminate the Van Der Hagen as the root cause. I was just wandering if you had any similar issues when you got into wet shaving. Thanks for your great videos. In my family we have Penn State and Maryland fans :)
Hi, L Phillips. For me, the game changer in the post shave arena has been the use of an alum block. When I first came back to the wet shave, I used the alum block only here and there. And I found that, on occasion when not using it, I had a bit of irritation. Now, I'm a convert. I've been using the alum block consistently after every shave. it helps give me a read as to whether or not the shave was too close. It also knocks down potential irritation. Also, it took a month to two months for my skin to really adapt to the wet shave. Coming from electric razors and a dry shave routine, my skin really needed time to acclimate. Like you, I started with Van Der Hagen. It's a good soap, but Tabac really imprived my shave. since then i started using Tabac, Proraso, and artisan soaps from Stirling and PAA. You may want to give some of these a try.:) HTH.:)
@@MarkSzorady Thanks for the reply. I just placed my first Stirling order today. Included was the alum block. Can't for the Barbershop shave soap. Loved your review. Stay safe, stay healthy.
Hello Mark, my beard is medium coarse and I shave every 3 days. The Persona Blue is amazing, but also the Bic Chrome, and the Treet (carbon coated.) I found that Derby and Astra are not for me. Also the Treet Platinum was horriblenfor the nicks. Thanks for sharing your razor blades.
now that I have so many different blades , I do understand that there are really no bad blades taking into account the price , cheap blades only last for one shave , more expensive blades for 2 or more , feather etc more then 5 shaves , also it is very important to use the blades with different rasors , I have blades who are not doing the job very well in one rasor and when I change the same blade in another one , the shave is fine, also depends on the beard of each person , greetings robert
I'm new to wet shaving and have been trying a lot of different blades. Many of these you mentioned. For my face, my beard and my skill level the Derby is my choice. Consistently close shaves. No nicks or cuts. 4 to 5 shaves per blade. Happy face!
The Derby Green’s are throwaways for me, just a one and done. However, the black Derby’s have me curious…I truly believe a platinum or Teflon coated blade does smooth it out tremendously. Just picked up 50/Nacet and 50/Kai for my new Karve stainless 3” with a SB C plate. However, my two main blades are Gillette Silver blues and Voshkod.
My favorites so far are the Astra green and the persona platinum's. Either use a Merkur 34c or a 1973 Gillette adjustable. Made the mistake of using a vintage Gillette red tip with a feather. Bad Idea!!. lol Thanks for sharing. I am glad that some of your favorite blades are some of mine.
I also started with a DE razor a million years ago and then strayed into cartridges... Been back to DE for a couple of years now (trying many of the blades that you featured) and I find that the Gillette Nacet blade provides me with the ideal level of sharpness and comfort. Give ‘em a try!
Good selection of blades mark. Blades are very subjective and the fun part is trying the different brands. Btw, I picked up a second hand chieftain and am eager to try it out. It's an older model.
Let me know how The chieftain works out for you.:) I know there were some slight design changes that went back and forth. I suggest you contact Vikings Blade and they can help you identify the model razor.:) I'd like to see you get the proper razor which reflects the current design (which is an older design). Snap a pic, send them an email.:) I have an older model which is a newer design and the newer model which is an older design. Confusing. I agree, the fun is trying blades for sure!:)
Amazon.com mostly. but I've been introuduced to other online sellers by viewers. West Coat, Shaving, Maggards, Ebay, Bullgoose Shaving. Phoenix Shaving just launched a new blade: (Affiliate link) Platinum Strangelet Super Sharps Double Edge Blades | Epic 100 Pack!: phoenixartisanaccoutrements.com/products/platinum-strangelet-super-sharps-double-edge-blades-by-phoenix-shaving-100-pack-limited-introductory-price?rfsn=4063161.c96a427&_pos=1&_sid=447bfae54&_ss=r I just got done shooting a revie of these and I liked them a lot.:) Hope to get it posted this week.:)
i only have experience with the derby extra's, i like them usually but find them very inconsistent. Often i get a great blade and if they were all like that i would never use anything else, but once in a while i get a terrible blade that pulls like crazy and i can't even finish a single shave with... Since the serby premiums are the same price for me i might get a pack of those, other available option would probably be astra. Not sure which way i'll go yet
Hello again Mr Szorady, would you be so kind to tell me what blades should I buy if I have a sensitive skin? I heard Shark is good but I'm not sure and don't want to waste money and get my skin irritated. Sorry to bother with so many questions, but you seem like a very experienced man in the shaving world and I appreciate your opinion :)
I experienced that if you use shaving cream without the use of a shaving brush, the blade slides easier and having a better and closer shave without cuts and bruises, but you have to massage your skin properly first.
Akbar Madani, Thanks so much. I'm sure it comes down to a YMMV. I use a brush. But am not averse, at times, to apply with my hands if a brush is not available.
What kind of blades would you suggest for someone who doesn’t grow much facial hair. I do shave every other day, but it isn’t much and the blades last me a while. I bought a sample pack like a year ago and I’m barely running out of blades.
Many people trash Derby Extras but I like 'em and got 200 of them for about $9.00 shipped. Although I like to try many different blades (I bought a bunch...lol) my go to is Voskhod.
So I guess in 2017ish derby redesigned their derby extra blades same time they retooled for the premium blades. They made them thinner, sharper and smoother All my Derby's are pre 2017 so I got another pack to try. I never liked them before. If you ever get your hands on the older ones (writing going left to right on the short side instead of the long side of the pack like yours) you'll know why many don't like Derby's.
My overall favorite has to be Rapira Swedish Super Steel. Other favorites include Astra Superior Stainless, Rapira Supersteel, and Derby Extra. I just got a 100 of Gillette Wilkinson Sword off ebay for under $7, and they're surprisingly very good. I didn't know what to expect with them, but I'm pleasantly surprised.
@@gibsonlespaul796 The RazoRock Mission was an early razor for me. A terrific razor for anyone starting the traditional wet shave. I can imagine how nice the shave was with that razor and blade combo.
Thanks for the video :) I really have to try some different blades, as I'm stuck with just the gillette ones. Which are good for other applications (scarping debree of cooking fields and stuff) but not so much for shaving, at least for me.
My pleasure.:) A good way to try different blades is to simply get a sampler pack.:) Any of these on the linked page would fit the bill, depending on your needs: amzn.to/2TvFjwB
I just finished shaving with both the Derby and Treet razor blades from a sample pack that I got on Amazon. Both blades were very disappointing…lack of sharpness and rough. I could only get three shaves out of each blade before the tugging got so bad that I had to discard them. I would not recommend either blade. For the money, Voskhod and Astra SP are much better blades….and both cost less than $10 per 100 on eBay. Just my opinion.
ive come to love the astras after trying at least 10 different. I'm surprised to hear you speak so highly about Derby, for me they are a very inconsistent blade, and I don't find them that smooth or sharp.. and for me no more than 2 shaves... I am interested in trying Treet... interested your thoughts in those compared to the Astra SP's.... Also.. add a VOSKHOD to your list..got them cheap and came with some cool russian stamps on the envelope ;)
Hi, 666dynomax:) I agree with you on Astras.:) Really like the blade. I get nice consistent shaves. Derby blades have been a favorite, especially Derby Premiums. I guess they work differently for me due to my being fair-skinned? I'm not sure. YMMV, as they say.:) Treet blades are terrific.:) I've gotten some really nice smooth shaves.:) But, perhaps I'm a bit biased because I purchased 300 of them at a rock bottom price.:) Yes, I have Voskhod and have been planning to do a video review soon.:) I viewer sent me samples along with Rainbow blades (review this Satruday). Rainbow blades were VERY good.:) But, yeah, I should order the Voskhods for the Russian stamps.:) Did you buy through Ebay?
Mark Szorady yes I did they were around 18 Canadian probably less then 10 usd. So where would you put the treet blades compared to say feather derby and astra
@@666dynomax I put Feathers in their own category. I only use them in my Godfather Stonehenge razor due to its mild quality.:) But, then again, the Stonehenge razor really keeps the extra sharpness of the Feather blade in check (for me). Treet blades are a VERY close second to Astras, IMHO. But Astra has a bit smoother performance. Derby regular blades are a good bargain blade. I like them. Derby Premiums are smoother and give me a comfortable shave. I'd say they are right up there with the Treet blades.:)
FYI Personna Platinum (Israeli Red) and the Personna Stainless Steel (German Reds) are the same. I also just shaved with the Personna Platinum (German), which is the same. The Personna Platinum (German) has a slightly different print on the blade, but the performance is the same IMHO. I also enjoy the Gillette Yellows and Nacets! Happy shaving!
Do the Treet carbon blades start to rust on you after the first shave? do you apply alcohol or oil to stop this? I've seen this happen to carbon blades I've used for my SE MicroMatic razors.
If you have a Dollar General store near by you, try to get their blades under their store name. They are pretty sharp, but I don't know who makes them. They are a dollar for a pack of 5 and they surprised me how sharp they are.
Jerry, I do have a Dollar General Store Nearby and have purchased those blades. They are made by Dorco for Dollar General. I suspected a similarity when I used one and contacted Dorco who confirmed this. I mentioned them in a previous video.:) th-cam.com/video/TnQd8WsUnO0/w-d-xo.html
@@MarkSzorady Ok cool!! I just know they are worth a dollar if you need some blades when you don't have any at home. I like Voskhod blades myself, they give me the shave I need. I got some Derby blades yesterday with the Barbero #2 razon I ordered from Amazon for $8.99. I like the razor itself, but i have never tried the Derby razor blades before. Maybe I'll try them out and like them, but who knows.
@@jerryg7391 The great thing about the wet shave is with safety razor is, you're not locked into a specific blade.:) You can mix things up.:) Derby for a day or two, then Astra, then Dorco, etc.:) The variety really enlivens the morning shave and gives you something to look forward to.:) The same thing with creams and soaps. Brush, sometimes brushless, tallow, non-tallow, glycerin, hard soap, croap, cream, etc. There is so much product and variety out there.:) it's a great time to be doing the wet shave.:) I have one Voskhod blade from a sample pack.:) I plan on using it soon.:) I checked out the Barbero rzor.;) Very nice and a real bargain price.:) For those interested: amzn.to/2Gs8FYP
@@MarkSzorady That's why I'm starting wet shave again, plus them cartridge razors cost too much now. Instead of spending around $75 a year, I can just spend around $8.83 now. But that's not included the different razons I might buy later on, I'm thinking of buying a Rockwell 6s. I might stop at around 3 good razors even tho I have brought a couple from the Wish app hoping to get them soon. I got 2 in mail already and they went straight in the trash can. Because they was nothing but plastic junk and wasn't worth two cents. They said on the idem details that they was made out of stainless steel..
@@jerryg7391 Many agree with you which is why they, too, came back to the wet shave.) I also came back due to costs of Electric razors and disappointing shaves. Vikings Blade Chieftain razor is very good.:) Edwin Jagger, Merkur, Parker. All good.:) Prices vary.:) Lots of choices.:) I don't own a Rockwell, so I cannot comment. I hear good things, though.:)
I was going to ask about the difference between the Derby Extra and the Derby Premium seeing that they cost the same, but reading through the comments I found a comment about Derby USTA blades, with tax they were $9.19/hundred. That same comment also mentioned Derby Bluebird blades but said they were hard to find. But I found hundred packs from Sweden ($20.94) with free shipping. So...now I have 100 of each on their way to me. FYI, Viking Blades also come in 'Cayenne Hot' if the 'mild' is too mild. I haven't tried either because at over $28 per 50 blades that approaches Merkur blade prices which is twice the price of Feathers.
Frederick, thanks for the information on the Derby USTA blades. I've used both the DE and SE version. Very good. I was unaware of a Derby blue blade. Thanks!
@@MarkSzorady I found out about Derby Bluebird and the USTA blades by reading through the comment section for this video. The commenter refers to the USTA blades as Derby UMTS. Search doesn't recognize UMTS but will find Derby Bluebird and Derby USTA. The Bluebird and USTA are two different blades, I purchased both to try because someone had given me a pack of 5 Derby Extras that I had just thrown into a drawer and almost forgotten about until this video, I just tried one in my 6s and with no effort I got the smoothest shave ever. So - Thank You! On a different track, people talk a lot about number of shaves per blade, just out of curiosity shaving both face and head, do you count that as one shave or two?
@@frederickmartin6998 A head shave and face shave are separate shaves for me. So it would be two shaves on the same blade. I tend to use a blade two to three shaves with some exceptions.
@@stephensmoot8874 If Astra is smooth, Treet is smooth minus a half point or so.:) But it's so close.:) I mean, many others would say it's neck and neck.:) IMHO.:) YMMV.:) I like 'em both.:)
One more comment on the video. You mentioned the cutting quality of mild or aggressive on only one blade. Were all the blades you mentioned mild? I'm a mild guy and that information would be helpful in considering new blades. Thanks.
I would say, yes. I gauge "mild" along the lines of "smoothness." So, yes, the blades I tlaked about are are mild/smooth. However, Shaveboy and Shark have a bit more 'edge" to them which i chalk up to, as I understand it, not having similar coatings as the others I mentioned. But, still smooth, even though that smoothness has just a bit more efficiency. I can tune this a bit depending on the razorI use them in. A mild razor like the Merkur HD 34C, Edwin Jagger, or Chieftain Jr. (por even their new Stonehenge) is going to tame the blade just a bit.:) My skin borders on the sensitive side, so I enjoy a blade that gives me a smooth shave.:) However, as they say, YMMV.:) You mentioned liking the Derby blades. Derby blades have some really nice coatings that help to give it a really nice smooth quality.:) I happened to shave with a Derby blade the other day for both a face shave and head shave in the Globalshave Calypso razor. Nice and smooth with no nicks on my head.:) Again, an example of a mild razor smoothing out/taming the blade just a bit more.:)
hi mark, the dorco HQ red and dorco HQ blue premium are great , the dorco prime platinum are better, with the blue derby extra, a little disappointed ,they last only for 2 shaves, the blue Lord super are doing very well for 3 shaves , I have also lobo blades but suppose they are only in Mexico , greetings , very nice your analisis
I'm new to wet shaving and the only blades i tried are the astra with the green package, i would like to try rapira (рапира) blades, any opinion on those?
I like both the Rapira and Voskhod as these two seem to battle it out in my shave den. Each are great. But, I prefer to use the Rapira that are Platinum coated. Same with Voskhod. Again, I prefer the Rapira Platinum: (affiliate link) amzn.to/3Qa4rqg
I've heard folks talk about fake items such as blades. I can't say one way of the another. I'm fairly certain that the blades I've purchased from Amazon are the real deal. If any are fakes, they're darn good ones.:)
Treet I try to like the due to the price being so right but my god they’re so dull. I put them on my leaf razor to shave my head and they suck. I was shaving my head for ever. Also when I shaved my face I put them on my Rockwell n I know that razor is not slouch but still took one too many passes to get my shave right. I do not recommend. If u want something cheap but perform relatively ok with no irritation are shark 🦈 blades either chrome or stainless. I use them once then I toss them they are pennies a shave and don’t last long but price is so right about $6 and up for a 100. My fav so far are Gillette platinum and Wilkerson ⚔️ classic which can b a lil expensive but man what a shave I get 3 shaves on my faces no problem and I got very thick hair. On my head they give me a good bbs but again they can go from $14 an up for 100 blades.
Hi, DOOM211000. Appreciate all the great feedback. I agree on the Sharks. I like the coated versions. also, since making this video, I've come across other blades that are wonderful. May I suggest: Affiliate links Filoso Razor Blades: filosobarberbrand.com?p=SJk4YLXIc PAA Platinum Strangelet Super Sharps Double Edge Blades | Epic 100 Pack!: phoenixartisanaccoutrements.com/products/platinum-strangelet-super-sharps-double-edge-blades-by-phoenix-shaving-100-pack-limited-introductory-price?rfsn=4063161.c96a427 Dorco ST300 Platinum Extra Double Edge Razor Blades - 100 Ct: amzn.to/392tDxH 100 Loi Titanium Double Edge Razor Blades: amzn.to/3sk7BNX These are priced between $6.00 and $17.00. I; e reviewed all of them and perhaps one or two may for with your shave.
@@MarkSzorady Blue wrapper. Guessing I have sensitive skin or my technique is still too similar to my cartridge days in terms of applying pressure or both. On that last shave I was also using the Merkur Progressive for the first time at 3.5 setting. Previously I'd been using the 34C (which is allegedly the equivalent of a 3 setting on the progressive) and I found it too mild. Thing is, for better or (obviously in this case) for worse, I really enjoyed using the 3.5 setting on the progress and I like putting a little pressure on the blade... Also learning better technique is, like, hard and stuff :). So before I focus on that I figured I'd give smoother blades a try and see if that is a better fit for my shaving style.
@@richp.738 Those blue wrapper Personnas are made in Israel. A favorite:) Yes, you'll have to lighten up on the touch. The 34C has a pretty narrow angle of approach, IMHO.:) Takes strict technique. A great razor to hone your shaving skills. When I returned to the traditonl wet shave, not only did I need to work on my technique, but my skin needed to adapt too. So, it took a good month before my skin really responded. Pretty soon, it all fell into place. Sounds like you're om track.:) if you haven't get an alum block and give it a try for your post shave..) I really helped me with my shave.:)
@@MarkSzorady Good feedback, thanks. Skin adaptation- interesting. Hope this occurs. I will be keeping you posted, I assure you :). So at the risk of sounding silly I have put off getting an Alum block because my brain is telling me that anything with part of the word aluminum in it could be toxic and should stay on my car and off of my my body. Antiperspirants contain aluminum and those used to cause skin reactions for me many years ago and when I switched to normal deodorant the prob went away. I am scheduled to go do down the internet rabbit hole on this subject at some point this week but if you have any thoughts prior to this journey I would definitely be interested to hear them. Regards
@@richp.738 I understand regarding the alum block use. Lots of alternatives like Witch Hazel, etc.:) Careful of that rabbit hole!:) Well, what I mean to say in editing my response its, there's goin to be alot of information to sift through on this subject. I've already started a search and there's a lot of information. The goal is finding the mot reliable in order to make an informed decision. I'll keep looking and if I find something will follow up.:) Bottom line, you know your health and body best. Do what is best for you. :)
It's close. Astras are pretty darn smooth. Derby Premiums are good, but I'd say that Astras are probably a notch sharper and a tad smoother, IMHO. But, still I like the Derby Premiums. YMMV, obviously.
I bought a 100 pack of Astra SP for 7 bucks while they were on sale on Amazon. I've been using Feather but they seem to irritate my skin. I need a sharp blade but one that is smoother.
I like Astra blades a lot. I've used Feathers in the past, but found them to be so sharp I'll only use in my Godfather razor due to it's mild quality. Admittedly, I need to give them a go in some other razors.:)
@@allthingsgood7976The Astras ended up being horrible. I got two sharp blades out of 35. Nothing but pulling and tugging until I got to those unusually sharp ones. I ended up buying some Gillette 7 o'clock greens and they have been fantastic. I bought some pre-shave oil along with some other stuff from Stirling and my shaves are pretty good now. The feather blades still irritate my skin though. They aren't for me.
@@ThaRedPitbull Persona Red are very comfortable. It's good you have a nice routine. I was given Truefitt and Hill products for my birthday... preshave oil, cream, and lotion... amazing products. A strong recommendation is to have your face well wet with warm to hot water before applying the preshave and heat your bowl with your razor in it with hot water... warm/hot razor especially during the first pass is very soothing. I always use very light contact and do not keep scraping the blade against skin that has no cream on it, once or twice and that's it. Better to do 3 light passes than tear up the skin with multiple strokes with pressure.
Lots from which to choose. The PAA Strangelets are great! (Affiliate links) Platinum Strangelet Super Sharps Double Edge Blades | Epic 100 Pack!: phoenixartisanaccoutrements.com/products/platinum-strangelet-super-sharps-double-edge-blades-by-phoenix-shaving-100-pack-limited-introductory-price?rfsn=4063161.c96a427 Lord Platinum Blades are nice and smooth Lord Platinum Double Edge Safety Razor Blades, 100 blades: amzn.to/3FOd1WU I also like Loi Titanium 100 Loi Titanium Double Edge Razor Blades: amzn.to/3LmF0OC Having said this, the approach is get a razor blade sampler and try a few different brands. Here's a page with various selections: amzn.to/3MkaiHj
@@MarkSzoradynew subscriber .thanks very much for getting back to me so fast .i think ill try the lords and maybe the derby premiums ..look forward to watching your videos .thanks again
All about personal preference really. Get a sample pack off amazon or another retailer and try some different brands. Many people like Astra, derby extra, Dorco and I do not at all! Maybe I'm just picky? So far Voskhod and Wilkinson sword have worked for me. I'll say for Wilkinson sword it was the first ones I tried that didnt rip my face off so I stuck with them for ever. The Voskhod have been a very pleasant surprise and less than half the price of the Wilkinson swords. Good luck!
I do. It's part of my daily shaving routine. I simply pat the blade dry (I don't rub), dry the razor and then reassemble everything so it's ready for the next morning's shave. Or ,I'll toss the blade if I've had a number of shaves with it and install a new blade.:)
I buy most of my blades on amazon. Treet blades i bought from Connaught Shaving because, at that time, the exchange rate was lsightly in my favor.:) connaughtshaving.com/
Will the derby extra (green box) fit the new King C. Gillette razor? Also, which blade is best or most preferred the derby extra (green box) or the derby premium (black box)???
@@MarkSzorady Hi Mark, thank you for your answer, helpful and much appreciated! Which one would you say is better the extra blades or the premium ones? I’ve only used the extra ones (green box) in the past.
@@MeasureTwice-CutOnce21 Give the premiums a try. Also, Astra Green, Persoanna REd, PAA Platinum Strangelet, Loi, lots of great blades at many different price points:)
Nice collection man. I am watching this video while heading to work. Will watch it again later. To write down some blades too where talking about to try them out. Just one thing. Need you to talk a little loud. But besides that. Great video. 👍🏻👍🏻
Thanks very much.:) Glad you found it helpful.:) Apologies for the sound. I'm aware of the audio. Videos after this one (and some others) have had the volume turned up. Other viewers noticed the same. So, I do some things with volume when editing.:)
I've used Feather blades for years but wanted to save a few bucks so I tried Treet. What a great blade for the price. Love them.
I agree.:) I have about 300 of them.:)
For those interested: amzn.to/2QeFMD0
Also, I was tipped of by a fellow wet shaver to keep an eye on connaughtshaving.com/treetplatinum.html. I bought the Treet blades when the dollar to pound favored the U.S. side. I got a really nice deal then.:)
ever try Astra? .68c each, and not far off from sharpness from feathers. just half a step down and they last twice as long
I hope you have an inheritance plan for your shaving gear, there is probably more than enough there to out live you
I first got hooked on Derby, especially Derby Extra, quite nice balance between sharpness and affordability. These days I'm more of an Astra Green fan though, they really have that magic Goldilocks zone - sharp as can be but somehow still feel very smooth and comfortable. It's like a Feather blade but not as violently aggressive against your skin.
I like Astra. Derby’s are good too. Prefer Astra though between the two.
Those Derby's are deceptively smooth. I got reckless and overconfident ended up cutting myself had to bust out the septic stick.
I like the Derby blade a lot.:) Always give me a smooth shave. Since making this video, I've learned they make another, Concord blades.:) Right up there with the Derby Premiums.:)
I used the Derby Extra blades for the first time today on my 3 day old beard (not super heavy ) and wow really liked them. Going to try a few more blades on 3 day old beards to keep everything equal and see how they match up. I did like how smooth they were for me. Really ended up with a nice shave. I was smooth after two passes but decided I had time so did a third pass and was baby smooth.
Love the Treet Platinum blade in my Edwin Jagger DE89. Smooth and sharp.
I bought the Treet Black Beauty 100 pack specifically because I read a review that rated them 0/5. Great that we have a hobby so cheap. For me it was 3/5. Great in Merkur Futur for 1st 2 shaves, not for third, but moved it to the Feather Popular razor and still had a great 3rd shave out of it. What other hobby do you buy something only because someone says it was their worst and they hated it?
I bought me a sample pack and I will try the Astra when I shave. People talk about this a lot on TH-cam
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Ookok ok ooo.
I am still loving my green Derby Extras for face shaving. For my baldy head i use the American Personna blades.
The Derby greens are very compatible to every razor. I had no good experience with the Astra blades. Don't know why but they don't fit to my skin. I will test the Israeli Personna Platinum.
Do derby extras give at least a smoother shave than a gillette fusion cartridge razor?
Hey Mark! I didn't go for the Vikings blade and feather blades due to their high price, I remember you recommend me those for my medium to coarse hair and sensitive skin. Now I use derby Premiums along with my parker variant with a high medium to high number setting and I find them to do a good job. Yes sharper is better for medium to coarse hair but when you have sensitive skin it is a little challenging to get both a bbs shave while not nicking your skin at the same time. I still haven't tried my remaining sharks blades I have in my parker variant but for what I can remember shark wasn't as close as the derbys. In the past I had a Parker 99r razor and I think I used my money wisely to get a Parker variant instead of buying several other razors for someone who honestly cannot afford all of that at that moment. I plan on sticking on stuff that works for me for wetshaving without going overboard and spending a lot of money on.
Hi, Nabeel.:) I like the Derby Premium blades.:) Nice and smooth for me and will give a close shave.:) Glad they're working for you. Shark blades have more an edge, IMHO.:) I'll sometimes use a Shark blade in a milder razor to up the efficiency just a bit.:)
@@MarkSzorady yeah I still have to try the shark blades in my parker variant, they didn't work as well in my parker 99r razor. Blades act differently in different razors so who knows maybe Sharks work good for me in an adjustable parker variant razor.
I just got 100 Derby Extra blades and they're great.
Being fairly new to Traditional WetShaving {9 mo}, I still know a lot and watch tons of informational videos and here are the blades I’ve tried so far... Feather Gillette silver blue PolSilver Muhle, And Derby Professional for my Shavette.. Not bad choices eh? 💈😁✌️💈
Good all around choices, IMO.:) Pus, using a shavette.:) Nice!:)
Derby serves me well... I'm pretty loyal to those blades...
Agree, dub033.:) I like them, to.:0 Both the Derby Extras and Premiums.:)
@@MarkSzorady Derby Extra suits for me best with green Prorosa shaving soap including eucalyptus oil and green Prorosa pre shave cream. All have a green packaging. Green for go like the traffic light.
@@technischemaschinenfabrik5882 yes, saw your other comment regarding Proraso green and white. Was wondering if eucalyptus has good effect on your skin.
Great video. You listed a lot of my favorites Dorcos, Derbys. I didn't know about the more premium varieties of these. You know, people say, no blade is too sharp. Well, a Japanese company developed ceramic shaving blades -- no metal at all. They tested them and guess what? Everyone who tried them got nicks and cuts galore. Just too darn sharp.
Thank you..) One of the reasons I love the wet shave is due to the variety of baldes available.:) Of course, this also applies to razors, brushes, soaps, creams, etc. It's a great time to be doing the traditional wet shave.:)
I've not heard about these ceramic blades Interesting bit of history.:) Thanks for sharing this.:) (I'm willing to bet someone is still developing them.:))
Holy smokes. I'd probably get razor burn just by looking at one of those blades :)
Just a couple of comments.... Great video. I really enjoyed it.
First about the Derby Extra, I love them as well. But there are 2 versions. One is great. The other is terrible. If the Derby logo runs vertically it is a "new" Derby Extra. They are smooth, sharp and wonderful. If the Derby logo does not run the length of the tuck, they are the "old" Derby blades which are not good at all! Derby is now making an even better blade called Derby UMTS. They are just starting to be marketed and are even better than Derby extras. Derby also makes Bluebird which are harder to come by and not discontinued as many have said. They are being targeted more at the professional market. They are simply the second best blade ever!
I believe Viking's Blade blades are made in Isreal by Personna. Great blade. Too gentle for me. But a great blade none the less.
Now about Dorco.......
Dorco Korea purchased new equipment which can make very thin blades. Their old machinery went to their plant in Vietnam. The Dorco St-301 out of Vietnam is exactly the same as it was before. So St-301 blades and the new St-300 Super Platinum blades are made on the old machinery in the new plant. The Primes and another new blade the Dorco Titan are much thinner and sharper than the ones that come out of Vietnam. But, the new blades are so thin that it is so easy to get cut. I find that they work best in 3-piece razors. Take a Dorco Prime and a Merkur 23C and it cannot be beat.
Shaver Boy is the best Chinese blades you can get. I recommend them to almost everyone. In fact, I think I recommended them to you! They are also the thickest blade that is commercially available, that I have ever found. They are sharp. They are smooth. They are cheap.
Astra SPs are generally respected, but the Astra SS (which is not coated,) are even sharper and nearly as smooth. I urge you to try one.
Finally about Shark. They actually make 2 blades. The Shark SS (which you have featured in this video....) and the Shark Chrome which is even a BETTER blade than the SS.
For the record an uncoated blade is usually sharper than a coated one. A good stainless, uncoated blade can also be smoother, but grinding it to the tolerences necessary is difficult. So many of this type of blade are not very good. The best would be the Rapira Super Stainless and the Astra Super Stainless which are made in the same plant and on the very same equipment!
As a manufacturer I have tried so many blades. There are only 4 that we will carry. The Dorco St-301 (which is sort of the "Chevy" of razor blades. Shaverboy - which is the Datsun 510 (an economy model, but a great economy model. The Rapira Super Steel (think Saab.....) and the Zircon Platinum which are the best blades that I have ever shaved with and we now have in stock and will be selling as of Tuesday. They will be sold by the blade and will cost $0.18 each.
Loved the video. Really.
Sheldon
Where can I purchase zircon platinum blade?
Sheldon, thanks so much for all the terrific information!:) Dorco ST-301's are rthe chevy of blades.:) Yes! Perfect description!:) And thanks for the background info on the Vietnam plant, etc.:)
yes, you did recommend Shaverboy to me.:) Like 'em a lot!:) And the Zircons are wonderful and will be in the next razor blade video.:)
Thanks for the kind words.:)
Sheldon, i agree. Those shark chromes are a very good blade.
I have the ones that say Derby Platinum are they the bad ones?! I have the half blade 100 pack for my shavette
@@mikerose51 those are great blades! I like them a lot. Only difference between it and the Derby Premium is the Premium are made from stainless steel.
Derby Extra are my everyday, that being said, Euromax has been a great try.
Thanks, Daniel musial.:) I'll give those a look.:)
Hey Mark, I just got 100 Rainbow de blades and I used it in my Americano razor and I must say it was a smooth and close shave. Topped it off with Clubman after shave. Virtually no sting at all. Great blades. They cost me $8.00 off eBay.
Tim, thanks for this.:) Now on my list to try!:) for those interested:
On Amazon:
100 RAINBOW SUPER CHROME DOUBLE EDGE SAFETY RAZOR BLADES
by Lord: amzn.to/2P1FjCV
40 Rainbow Super Stainless Double Edge Razor Blades
by Lord: amzn.to/2IqqfgS
On EBAY:
Rainbow Double Edge Razor Blades - 100 Count: www.ebay.com/itm/Rainbow-Double-Edge-Razor-Blades-100-Count/202595517981?hash=item2f2ba2461d:g:4tgAAOSwEwpbjcKY
In my R41 I mostly use the Treet "black beauties", my Fatip OC gets Treet Platinum, my R89 gets Treet Dura Sharp. The BIC and Feather blades go in my Mühle Companion and Rockwell 6S.
Treet are pretty good. The Black Beauties are very mild, the Dura Sharps seem just a little below the BIC and Feathers for sharpness, the Platinum are good mid-range sharpness blade.
Wow, super informative Mark. Thank you for sharing your thoughts on these razors. As a new wet shaver I trust your suggestions since I too prefer a milder shaving experience. Cheers sir!
Hi, Jon Fornal. Also try Lord blades. Very inexpensive and a terrific blade. Itried them aftr I made this video.
Lord Platinum Double Edge Safety Razor Blades, 100 blades (5x20): amzn.to/30RB3vZ (affiliate link)
There should always be a fine balance between a sharp blade and a smooth cut. This is why with our DE 5 Razor, we designed it for sensitive skins and for course hair. Would love to hear your thoughts on it.
Are the derby premiums good for a new baber for shaving and line ups?
Another blade worth trying are the Bic razor blades. I get a great shave from these in my EJ Diamond razor.
Derby has been my go to blade for last 5 years. Probably because I was given 200 of them early in my wet shaving journey and have never felt the need to try another blade because they work great. Consistently get 3-4 great irritation free shaves from a blade. Recently got a pack of Astra platinum so will given them a try.
Love the Derby blades. I usually go two to three shaves then toss for a new blade.:)
dude its crazy how nice they shave. i payed 4 times as much for a hundred pack of wilkinson sword (i recieved by accident from amazon) and they're really nice but just to sharp for my face i think. i get much more irritation and notas consistent. im relatively new to wet shaving though
I have used many brands: Gellitte 7o'clock ( the green not the yellow ), Gillette blue platinum, Gillette Nacet, Feather, Merkur, SuperMax, and Astra, I think the smoothest and best of them is Astra Platinum blades and I am getting a minimum of 7 shaves with a single blade, I am shaving every other day and changing the blade every two weeks. I believe it is the best value compared to the number of shaves per blade.
I am enjoying your videos, keep it up, Mr.Mark.
Mohammad, that's great to hear! I like Astras too. After reading your comments, I need to get some more.
@@MarkSzorady 👍👍👍
Astra blades cut me up like crazy. So far the best blades ive tried are Personna Chrome platinums. They feel like they have the safety of a derby blade and slightly less sharp than a feather.
Treet Platinums, Derby Extras, and Gillette Silver Blues are my favorite so far. The Treet Platinums work great with Barbasol Sensitive Skin, where most blades struggle to cooperate with canned goo.
Nice video! My personal favorites blades are Lord Super Chrome, Shark Super Stainless, and the Dorco Primes. It seems like we have similar tastes in blades! I enjoy all these blades and keep them in rotation but my "daily shave blade" is defiantly the Lord Super Chrome. It's sharp but not too sharp where the slightest mistake cuts me up, but still gives amazing results. I do have about 60 Derby blades lying around that worked well in a razor that was previously my favorite but it doesn't match well with current daily shave razor (West Coast Shaving Midnight collection 77B). l'll slowly work thru them; but I might give the Derby Premium blades a try! Please stay active on here and stay uploading!
Got some Dorco (Vietnamese) blades at a discount store last week, and have 4 good shaves on the first one. I will try for five of six shaves just for fun. Thanks for the info. Lots of blades are made in Russia, so it’s good to know that good blades are still made elsewhere…
I am new to DE shaving. I bought 100 Derby Extras for £8. Using a Muhle R89 Grande. A very smooth a forgiving shave. At that price you can just ditch the blades after 1 or 2 shaves. Meaning you get ultra close sharp shaves every time for pennies. It's amazing blades of these quality are so cheap. Yet miles sharper and better than well known cartridge brands. When I'm a bit more proficient would like to try Feathers as heard great things about them. Hope they are not too viscous! Another great review, tempted by the Derby premiums now as well ...
Al, great to hear that the TWS is working for you.:) Part of the attraction and fun is trying different blades.:) For me, Feather blades are quite sharp. I tend to use them only in mild razors.
Great video as always I really enjoyed it. Thank you again for your time and videos.
My pleasure
Thank you for your info for blade.I'm just started wet shaving so helpful your video.
Stay safe.
Mitch
Mitch, my pleasure.:) This video does have some great info. Since making it, I've discovered so many more great razor blades. Feel free to go thorugh the other videos on the channel to see some of the others I've used. Btu, like you, I found that these served as a great introduction to the traditional wet shave.)
thanks to your analisis , this time I will buy pack of 100 blades of star , and another of street , since you mention they are very smooth , regards robert
Hi Mark- Nice overview of your favorite razor blades; thank you! That’s a great list! My current list of top five blades from #1 working down would be: Kai, Gillette Nacet, Feather, Personna Med Prep, and Pol Silver. I would like to try Shaver Boy and the Zircon blades, as well. I hope your week gets off to a great start and all the best!
Mike, Pol Silver blades are all the rage in the wet shave world.:) I had a few and need to get some more!:) Very nice blade!:) Thanks for the nice words!:) Have a great week!:)
So many blades. I've bought and tried several. So far I love feather and voskhod. Dorco's were too mild for my hair but gave zero irritation, just took forever to shave with. I liked astra blue, but hated astra green, every green blade I used gave me terrible razor burn. Waiting in line for me are derby extra and premium, shark stainless and chrome, and Bic super chrome I think there called. I have pretty coarse hair, with sensitive skin. I think that's why feathers are my favorite, they get the hair quicker and easier than anything else, which means fewer strokes. It should be known that I go for bbs every time. My last bit of opinion, voskhod has given me the smoothest shave by far, the first time It didn't even feel like it was cutting, but it did a great job.
Hi, Roger Samaniego. Very helpful info.:0 Thank you.:) Dorco are defintley a bargain blade and not in everyone's wheelhouse. I get that. Feathers are sharp. Glad to hear they work for you. I use them, but only in a mild razor like the Godfather Stonehenge. Gives me a great shave!:)
@@MarkSzorady it amazes me how different experiences can be person to person. I've never tried the godfather, but I'll look into that. I'm using a '59 Fatboy right now, and started on the vanderhagen. I love the Fatboy, but I'm definitely looking to expand my collection. It's addicting.
@@isthisit781 it is. However, if you have a Fatboy, you've got one of the best razors around.:)
@@MarkSzorady their is definitely something to be said for a 60+ year old razor that is still very popular, but I've been eyeing the Vikings blade emperor Agustus. It looks very nice, has a hefty weight, almost double the Fatboys weight, and is pretty affordable. After having it for a year would you recommend it?
I just used the Derby Extra blades and they were incredibly smooth, and like everyone says not very sharp. Virtually no irritation, a minor little nick on the chin, but it was a great shave. That's the thing I like about wet shaving is trying new blades and new razors. Derby Extras will definitely be in my rotation, I'll have to try the premiums in the future.
Hi, Azareas. Nice to hear. I think you'll like the Premiums.:) A nice step up from the Extras, IMHO.:) But I love using both.:)
@Sal 040 With any Blades/Razors Your Milage May Vary. I think you'll definitely notice the smoothness on these.
@Sal T I think you'll come to really enjoy the traditional wet shave, as well as, the entire process.:)
Most say that about Derby's because of their pre 2017 blades.
When they retooled for the premium line they also changed the extra blades. They are thinner, sharper, and more comfortable.
If you get your hands on older Derby's you'll know why people hate them. The older ones have the writing left to right on the short side of the pack. The newer are blue (10) or green (5) and the writing is the long way in the packs.
Older ones sucked to me. Just grabbed a pack of the new ones. And the premium to try too. Also got my hands on the newest "USTA" (master) blades by Derby that haven't really hit the US market yet.
In the video when he shows the 5 pack Derby's, you'll see the writing goes the long way. They are the new ones.
@@2010stoof Thanks for the heads up on the new Debry blades. I'll keep a lookout.)
Astra green my beloved. They're expensive now so I had to leave them and now I'm searching for options
Personna blues are my faves. :) Thanks for the links, think I'll try something new.
One of my favorites, as well.
I recently tried persona Israel Reds liked them alot
@@mikerose51 I've heard great things about those blades.:) On my list.:)
Mark, I am a 70 yo that just got into wet shaving. I started with the Parker 92R which included 5 Parker razor blades. I also got the Van Der Hagen Scented Luxury shave pucks. My first shave was extremely close and at first very comfortable. I have somewhat sensitive skin especially to some shaving soaps. Barbasol absolutely irritates me to heck. As a result, I have come to use Noxzema as buffer between my face and most canned shaving soaps. Recently I have been using Cremo shave creams. Extremely slick, no irritation, and it eliminates the need for Noxzema. After my first DE razor shave, even thought the initial feel of the shave was close, BBS and comfortable, note I did use a post shave shave balm, I begin feeling an irritation after about an hour. I trying to decipher which one of the following might be the root cause; 1. Soap Irritation or 2. Razor Irritation. My next shave will be with the Cremo shave cream to eliminate the Van Der Hagen as the root cause. I was just wandering if you had any similar issues when you got into wet shaving. Thanks for your great videos. In my family we have Penn State and Maryland fans :)
Hi, L Phillips. For me, the game changer in the post shave arena has been the use of an alum block. When I first came back to the wet shave, I used the alum block only here and there. And I found that, on occasion when not using it, I had a bit of irritation. Now, I'm a convert. I've been using the alum block consistently after every shave. it helps give me a read as to whether or not the shave was too close. It also knocks down potential irritation. Also, it took a month to two months for my skin to really adapt to the wet shave. Coming from electric razors and a dry shave routine, my skin really needed time to acclimate. Like you, I started with Van Der Hagen. It's a good soap, but Tabac really imprived my shave. since then i started using Tabac, Proraso, and artisan soaps from Stirling and PAA. You may want to give some of these a try.:) HTH.:)
@@MarkSzorady Thanks for the reply. I just placed my first Stirling order today. Included was the alum block. Can't for the Barbershop shave soap. Loved your review. Stay safe, stay healthy.
@@BlueJay7850 My pleasure.:) Thanks for the kind words.:)
I agree on Derby. I use feather primarily but tried them and turned out to be a great blade. I'll definitely try the others you've mentioned.
Many other blades since I made this video.:)
Hello Mark, my beard is medium coarse and I shave every 3 days. The Persona Blue is amazing, but also the Bic Chrome, and the Treet (carbon coated.)
I found that Derby and Astra are not for me. Also the Treet Platinum was horriblenfor the nicks.
Thanks for sharing your razor blades.
My blades are gillette platinum, feather, astra, derby and lord
Derby and Dorco are good blades. Honestly, modern blades are all quite good, just different.
now that I have so many different blades , I do understand that there are really no bad blades taking into account the price , cheap blades only last for one shave , more expensive blades for 2 or more , feather etc more then 5 shaves , also it is very important to use the blades with different rasors , I have blades who are not doing the job very well in one rasor and when I change the same blade in another one , the shave is fine, also depends on the beard of each person , greetings robert
Yes. Agree
Great video Mark! I tried many blades since I started and I only use Derby Premium currently! Love ‘em!
Derby premium really surprised me!:) I like 'em a lot!:)
I'm new to wet shaving and have been trying a lot of different blades. Many of these you mentioned. For my face, my beard and my skill level the Derby is my choice. Consistently close shaves. No nicks or cuts. 4 to 5 shaves per blade. Happy face!
Wonderful, CJ!:) I'm so happy to hear the video was helpful and you found a blade that's agreeable.:) Enjoy!:)
Crash, which Derby to you like? There were two different blades mentioned.
@@jerardgeorge7415 Derby Extra. Comes in a green box on Amazon. Cheers!
I went with Derby Extra. Maybe I can use my 87r without cuts and irritation. Great video.
Thanks!:0 Derby Extra are really nice.) A favorite.:) Also try SuperMax Blue Diamond. I discovered these after i made this video. I need to update.:)
Great video as usual! My top 3 are Derby (green), TREET and Astra!
The Derby Green’s are throwaways for me, just a one and done. However, the black Derby’s have me curious…I truly believe a platinum or Teflon coated blade does smooth it out tremendously. Just picked up 50/Nacet and 50/Kai for my new Karve stainless 3” with a SB C plate. However, my two main blades are Gillette Silver blues and Voshkod.
@@greg6162 oh I think you are going to love the Nacets! :-)
My favorites so far are the Astra green and the persona platinum's. Either use a Merkur 34c or a 1973 Gillette adjustable. Made the mistake of using a vintage Gillette red tip with a feather. Bad Idea!!. lol Thanks for sharing. I am glad that some of your favorite blades are some of mine.
Mason, I definitely use a Feather only in a mild razor. Usually my Godfather Stonehenge.)
I been using Rapira for 2 months
lots of good nicely priced blades!
I also started with a DE razor a million years ago and then strayed into cartridges... Been back to DE for a couple of years now (trying many of the blades that you featured) and I find that the Gillette Nacet blade provides me with the ideal level of sharpness and comfort. Give ‘em a try!
Thanks for the recommendation.:) I've many other blades not seen on this video, so I'll look into it for sure for the next go round!:)
Good selection of blades mark. Blades are very subjective and the fun part is trying the different brands. Btw, I picked up a second hand chieftain and am eager to try it out. It's an older model.
Let me know how The chieftain works out for you.:) I know there were some slight design changes that went back and forth. I suggest you contact Vikings Blade and they can help you identify the model razor.:) I'd like to see you get the proper razor which reflects the current design (which is an older design). Snap a pic, send them an email.:) I have an older model which is a newer design and the newer model which is an older design. Confusing.
I agree, the fun is trying blades for sure!:)
so far best blades for me nis muhle, i want to to try sputnik after pootin falls
When you say Mild it’s not aggressive?
Where do u buy your blades?
Amazon.com mostly. but I've been introuduced to other online sellers by viewers. West Coat, Shaving, Maggards, Ebay, Bullgoose Shaving. Phoenix Shaving just launched a new blade:
(Affiliate link)
Platinum Strangelet Super Sharps Double Edge Blades | Epic 100 Pack!: phoenixartisanaccoutrements.com/products/platinum-strangelet-super-sharps-double-edge-blades-by-phoenix-shaving-100-pack-limited-introductory-price?rfsn=4063161.c96a427&_pos=1&_sid=447bfae54&_ss=r
I just got done shooting a revie of these and I liked them a lot.:) Hope to get it posted this week.:)
Thanks.
i only have experience with the derby extra's, i like them usually but find them very inconsistent. Often i get a great blade and if they were all like that i would never use anything else, but once in a while i get a terrible blade that pulls like crazy and i can't even finish a single shave with...
Since the serby premiums are the same price for me i might get a pack of those, other available option would probably be astra. Not sure which way i'll go yet
Hello again Mr Szorady, would you be so kind to tell me what blades should I buy if I have a sensitive skin? I heard Shark is good but I'm not sure and don't want to waste money and get my skin irritated. Sorry to bother with so many questions, but you seem like a very experienced man in the shaving world and I appreciate your opinion :)
I experienced that if you use shaving cream without the use of a shaving brush, the blade slides easier and having a better and closer shave without cuts and bruises, but you have to massage your skin properly first.
Akbar Madani, Thanks so much. I'm sure it comes down to a YMMV. I use a brush. But am not averse, at times, to apply with my hands if a brush is not available.
What kind of blades would you suggest for someone who doesn’t grow much facial hair. I do shave every other day, but it isn’t much and the blades last me a while. I bought a sample pack like a year ago and I’m barely running out of blades.
Many people trash Derby Extras but I like 'em and got 200 of them for about $9.00 shipped. Although I like to try many different blades (I bought a bunch...lol) my go to is Voskhod.
ML, you may want to give Derby USTA blades a try then.:)
So I guess in 2017ish derby redesigned their derby extra blades same time they retooled for the premium blades. They made them thinner, sharper and smoother
All my Derby's are pre 2017 so I got another pack to try. I never liked them before.
If you ever get your hands on the older ones (writing going left to right on the short side instead of the long side of the pack like yours) you'll know why many don't like Derby's.
Hi, 2010stoof. Interesting. Thanks for his info.:)
@@MarkSzorady if you're interested I have many of the old ones I can send you some taped to a piece of paper if you want to try and see the difference
@@2010stoof Thank you for the offer. I'm intrigued. If anything, it would be a nice subject for a MMMB:) Drop me a line at mondaymailbag@gmail.com.
Treet are best and cheaper too.... love them
Treet are a favorite.:) Terrific blade.:)
@@MarkSzorady yes u r right sir...
And they r affirdable in price too...as compare to gillette...
My overall favorite has to be Rapira Swedish Super Steel. Other favorites include Astra Superior Stainless, Rapira Supersteel, and Derby Extra. I just got a 100 of Gillette Wilkinson Sword off ebay for under $7, and they're surprisingly very good. I didn't know what to expect with them, but I'm pleasantly surprised.
Hi, Gibson Les Paul. I enjoy the Gillette Wilkinson Sword too. Those are out of India I believe.
@@MarkSzorady just used a fresh Wilkinson Sword in my Razorock Mission with the good old Arko soap. Very efficient shave.
@@gibsonlespaul796 The RazoRock Mission was an early razor for me. A terrific razor for anyone starting the traditional wet shave. I can imagine how nice the shave was with that razor and blade combo.
Shark blades are my go to currently, only 7 bucks for $100
Dorco prime's are my go to !! I've also been testing out SHAPU blades.
Dorco Prime blades are very nice.) Nice and thin, sharp and smooth.:) I'll have to check out SHAPU.:) Thanks.:)
Thanks for the video :)
I really have to try some different blades, as I'm stuck with just the gillette ones. Which are good for other applications (scarping debree of cooking fields and stuff) but not so much for shaving, at least for me.
My pleasure.:) A good way to try different blades is to simply get a sampler pack.:) Any of these on the linked page would fit the bill, depending on your needs: amzn.to/2TvFjwB
I just finished shaving with both the Derby and Treet razor blades from a sample pack that I got on Amazon. Both blades were very disappointing…lack of sharpness and rough. I could only get three shaves out of each blade before the tugging got so bad that I had to discard them. I would not recommend either blade. For the money, Voskhod and Astra SP are much better blades….and both cost less than $10 per 100 on eBay. Just my opinion.
ive come to love the astras after trying at least 10 different. I'm surprised to hear you speak so highly about Derby, for me they are a very inconsistent blade, and I don't find them that smooth or sharp.. and for me no more than 2 shaves... I am interested in trying Treet... interested your thoughts in those compared to the Astra SP's.... Also.. add a VOSKHOD to your list..got them cheap and came with some cool russian stamps on the envelope ;)
Hi, 666dynomax:) I agree with you on Astras.:) Really like the blade. I get nice consistent shaves. Derby blades have been a favorite, especially Derby Premiums. I guess they work differently for me due to my being fair-skinned? I'm not sure. YMMV, as they say.:) Treet blades are terrific.:) I've gotten some really nice smooth shaves.:) But, perhaps I'm a bit biased because I purchased 300 of them at a rock bottom price.:)
Yes, I have Voskhod and have been planning to do a video review soon.:) I viewer sent me samples along with Rainbow blades (review this Satruday). Rainbow blades were VERY good.:) But, yeah, I should order the Voskhods for the Russian stamps.:) Did you buy through Ebay?
Mark Szorady yes I did they were around 18 Canadian probably less then 10 usd. So where would you put the treet blades compared to say feather derby and astra
@@666dynomax I put Feathers in their own category. I only use them in my Godfather Stonehenge razor due to its mild quality.:) But, then again, the Stonehenge razor really keeps the extra sharpness of the Feather blade in check (for me). Treet blades are a VERY close second to Astras, IMHO. But Astra has a bit smoother performance. Derby regular blades are a good bargain blade. I like them. Derby Premiums are smoother and give me a comfortable shave. I'd say they are right up there with the Treet blades.:)
The Israeli Reds are top shelf. I LOVE THESE BLADES.
FYI Personna Platinum (Israeli Red) and the Personna Stainless Steel (German Reds) are the same. I also just shaved with the Personna Platinum (German), which is the same. The Personna Platinum (German) has a slightly different print on the blade, but the performance is the same IMHO. I also enjoy the Gillette Yellows and Nacets! Happy shaving!
I use treet blades too they are just awesome thanks for the infos mate keep it up
My pleasure
Hi Mark do the Dorco Prime blades have glue on the blades?
It's been a couple of weeks since i used one, but as far as I recall, they do not.
I use ASTRA Razors every time I shave
shark is surprizingly nice blade for me. very cheap but quite sharp and smooth :)
In my opinion, green astra, personna, treet platinum can't be' missing absolutely. I suggest also the treet carbon as well.
Do the Treet carbon blades start to rust on you after the first shave? do you apply alcohol or oil to stop this? I've seen this happen to carbon blades I've used for my SE MicroMatic razors.
@@MarkSzorady no, i always use the treet carbon for 2 shaves and it is perfect.
@@Daviddavid-qe7vv Thanks.:0 I may give these a try then.)
If you have a Dollar General store near by you, try to get their blades under their store name. They are pretty sharp, but I don't know who makes them.
They are a dollar for a pack of 5 and they surprised me how sharp they are.
Jerry, I do have a Dollar General Store Nearby and have purchased those blades. They are made by Dorco for Dollar General. I suspected a similarity when I used one and contacted Dorco who confirmed this. I mentioned them in a previous video.:) th-cam.com/video/TnQd8WsUnO0/w-d-xo.html
@@MarkSzorady Ok cool!! I just know they are worth a dollar if you need some blades when you don't have any at home. I like Voskhod blades myself, they give me the shave I need.
I got some Derby blades yesterday with the Barbero #2 razon I ordered from Amazon for $8.99.
I like the razor itself, but i have never tried the Derby razor blades before. Maybe I'll try them out and like them, but who knows.
@@jerryg7391 The great thing about the wet shave is with safety razor is, you're not locked into a specific blade.:) You can mix things up.:) Derby for a day or two, then Astra, then Dorco, etc.:) The variety really enlivens the morning shave and gives you something to look forward to.:)
The same thing with creams and soaps. Brush, sometimes brushless, tallow, non-tallow, glycerin, hard soap, croap, cream, etc.
There is so much product and variety out there.:) it's a great time to be doing the wet shave.:)
I have one Voskhod blade from a sample pack.:) I plan on using it soon.:)
I checked out the Barbero rzor.;) Very nice and a real bargain price.:) For those interested: amzn.to/2Gs8FYP
@@MarkSzorady That's why I'm starting wet shave again, plus them cartridge razors cost too much now. Instead of spending around $75 a year, I can just spend around $8.83 now.
But that's not included the different razons I might buy later on, I'm thinking of buying a Rockwell 6s.
I might stop at around 3 good razors even tho I have brought a couple from the Wish app hoping to get them soon.
I got 2 in mail already and they went straight in the trash can. Because they was nothing but plastic junk and wasn't worth two cents. They said on the idem details that they was made out of stainless steel..
@@jerryg7391 Many agree with you which is why they, too, came back to the wet shave.) I also came back due to costs of Electric razors and disappointing shaves.
Vikings Blade Chieftain razor is very good.:) Edwin Jagger, Merkur, Parker. All good.:) Prices vary.:) Lots of choices.:)
I don't own a Rockwell, so I cannot comment. I hear good things, though.:)
Gillette platinum o silver blue?
Derby black it's the same price as the green Blades? wheelchair larry
The astra greens are now being made in India.
I was going to ask about the difference between the Derby Extra and the Derby Premium seeing that they cost the same, but reading through the comments I found a comment about Derby USTA blades, with tax they were $9.19/hundred. That same comment also mentioned Derby Bluebird blades but said they were hard to find. But I found hundred packs from Sweden ($20.94) with free shipping. So...now I have 100 of each on their way to me.
FYI, Viking Blades also come in 'Cayenne Hot' if the 'mild' is too mild. I haven't tried either because at over $28 per 50 blades that approaches Merkur blade prices which is twice the price of Feathers.
Frederick, thanks for the information on the Derby USTA blades. I've used both the DE and SE version. Very good. I was unaware of a Derby blue blade. Thanks!
@@MarkSzorady I found out about Derby Bluebird and the USTA blades by reading through the comment section for this video. The commenter refers to the USTA blades as Derby UMTS. Search doesn't recognize UMTS but will find Derby Bluebird and Derby USTA. The Bluebird and USTA are two different blades, I purchased both to try because someone had given me a pack of 5 Derby Extras that I had just thrown into a drawer and almost forgotten about until this video, I just tried one in my 6s and with no effort I got the smoothest shave ever. So - Thank You!
On a different track, people talk a lot about number of shaves per blade, just out of curiosity shaving both face and head, do you count that as one shave or two?
@@frederickmartin6998 A head shave and face shave are separate shaves for me. So it would be two shaves on the same blade. I tend to use a blade two to three shaves with some exceptions.
Great information for me I usually use Gillette silver blue or Wilkerson sword astra works pretty good for me also 👍
You might wanna give Treet a try. I've always liked Derby.:)
How does treet compare to astra
@@stephensmoot8874 If Astra is smooth, Treet is smooth minus a half point or so.:) But it's so close.:) I mean, many others would say it's neck and neck.:) IMHO.:) YMMV.:)
I like 'em both.:)
GSB is my all time fav behind that is feather and PolSilver
My favourite blades are certainly the shark super chrome blades
I've only tried the Shark Stainless. So, gotta get those Super Chrome.:)
@@MarkSzorady oh definitely! They rarely disappoint. I’d be interested in seeing you do a shave with them on your channel!
@@tylerclarke5591 I'll put it on the list for sure.:)
Shark super chrome are sharper than the shark stainless you can tell the difference very nice smooth sharp blade
@@Carlosgarcia-og7hf Thanks or the reminder. Just ordered.:)
One more comment on the video. You mentioned the cutting quality of mild or aggressive on only one blade. Were all the blades you mentioned mild? I'm a mild guy and that information would be helpful in considering new blades. Thanks.
I would say, yes. I gauge "mild" along the lines of "smoothness." So, yes, the blades I tlaked about are are mild/smooth. However, Shaveboy and Shark have a bit more 'edge" to them which i chalk up to, as I understand it, not having similar coatings as the others I mentioned. But, still smooth, even though that smoothness has just a bit more efficiency. I can tune this a bit depending on the razorI use them in. A mild razor like the Merkur HD 34C, Edwin Jagger, or Chieftain Jr. (por even their new Stonehenge) is going to tame the blade just a bit.:) My skin borders on the sensitive side, so I enjoy a blade that gives me a smooth shave.:) However, as they say, YMMV.:) You mentioned liking the Derby blades. Derby blades have some really nice coatings that help to give it a really nice smooth quality.:) I happened to shave with a Derby blade the other day for both a face shave and head shave in the Globalshave Calypso razor. Nice and smooth with no nicks on my head.:) Again, an example of a mild razor smoothing out/taming the blade just a bit more.:)
I love personna blades my favorite
Just ordered 200 shark blades for 11.99 on eBay I like them there in my rotation
Hi, American Street.:) Nice price!:) Yes, always great to pull on of these out and pop it in a razor.:)
hi mark, the dorco HQ red and dorco HQ blue premium are great , the dorco prime platinum are better, with the blue derby extra, a little disappointed ,they last only for 2 shaves, the blue Lord super are doing very well for 3 shaves , I have also lobo blades but suppose they are only in Mexico , greetings , very nice your analisis
Thanks very much, robert broes!:) I'm going to have to give the Dorco HQ blue premium a try.:)
I'm new to wet shaving and the only blades i tried are the astra with the green package, i would like to try rapira (рапира) blades, any opinion on those?
I like both the Rapira and Voskhod as these two seem to battle it out in my shave den. Each are great. But, I prefer to use the Rapira that are Platinum coated. Same with Voskhod.
Again, I prefer the Rapira Platinum: (affiliate link) amzn.to/3Qa4rqg
@@MarkSzorady as soon as i end the last pack of astras i'm going to order the rapiras, thanks for the feedback
Prime Platinum is one of my go to’s
I'm gonna us that one for the next shave.:)
Wow Mark, loved this video on the various blades, I like the Astra blades, but based on your review I bought Personna blades to try out too:)
Thanks!:) glad ot hear it helped.:) I hope you enjoy using Personna blades.:)
Mark Szorady Mark what would be your personal pick between Astra and Personna?
@@Shaverboy516 it's close. I'd lean a just a bit toward the Personna. But, boy, those Astras are nice! I guess that's why I have both.:)
Mark Szorady yes Astra blades are great, very smooth, I bought the Personna and will give those a try too, thanks Mark:)
@@Shaverboy516 NP.:) My pleasure.:)
Would you recommend to buy on amazon? Because sometimes i can read in ratings that there are fakes.
I've heard folks talk about fake items such as blades. I can't say one way of the another. I'm fairly certain that the blades I've purchased from Amazon are the real deal. If any are fakes, they're darn good ones.:)
Treet I try to like the due to the price being so right but my god they’re so dull. I put them on my leaf razor to shave my head and they suck. I was shaving my head for ever. Also when I shaved my face I put them on my Rockwell n I know that razor is not slouch but still took one too many passes to get my shave right. I do not recommend. If u want something cheap but perform relatively ok with no irritation are shark 🦈 blades either chrome or stainless. I use them once then I toss them they are pennies a shave and don’t last long but price is so right about $6 and up for a 100. My fav so far are Gillette platinum and Wilkerson ⚔️ classic which can b a lil expensive but man what a shave I get 3 shaves on my faces no problem and I got very thick hair. On my head they give me a good bbs but again they can go from $14 an up for 100 blades.
Hi, DOOM211000. Appreciate all the great feedback. I agree on the Sharks. I like the coated versions. also, since making this video, I've come across other blades that are wonderful. May I suggest:
Affiliate links
Filoso Razor Blades: filosobarberbrand.com?p=SJk4YLXIc
PAA Platinum Strangelet Super Sharps Double Edge Blades | Epic 100 Pack!: phoenixartisanaccoutrements.com/products/platinum-strangelet-super-sharps-double-edge-blades-by-phoenix-shaving-100-pack-limited-introductory-price?rfsn=4063161.c96a427
Dorco ST300 Platinum Extra Double Edge Razor Blades - 100 Ct: amzn.to/392tDxH
100 Loi Titanium Double Edge Razor Blades: amzn.to/3sk7BNX
These are priced between $6.00 and $17.00. I; e reviewed all of them and perhaps one or two may for with your shave.
Started with Personna but I've had some skin irritation. Gonna try Rockwell next and possibly Derby after that.
Personna in the blue wrapper or white wrapper?
@@MarkSzorady Blue wrapper. Guessing I have sensitive skin or my technique is still too similar to my cartridge days in terms of applying pressure or both. On that last shave I was also using the Merkur Progressive for the first time at 3.5 setting. Previously I'd been using the 34C (which is allegedly the equivalent of a 3 setting on the progressive) and I found it too mild. Thing is, for better or (obviously in this case) for worse, I really enjoyed using the 3.5 setting on the progress and I like putting a little pressure on the blade... Also learning better technique is, like, hard and stuff :). So before I focus on that I figured I'd give smoother blades a try and see if that is a better fit for my shaving style.
@@richp.738 Those blue wrapper Personnas are made in Israel. A favorite:) Yes, you'll have to lighten up on the touch. The 34C has a pretty narrow angle of approach, IMHO.:) Takes strict technique. A great razor to hone your shaving skills. When I returned to the traditonl wet shave, not only did I need to work on my technique, but my skin needed to adapt too. So, it took a good month before my skin really responded. Pretty soon, it all fell into place. Sounds like you're om track.:) if you haven't get an alum block and give it a try for your post shave..) I really helped me with my shave.:)
@@MarkSzorady Good feedback, thanks. Skin adaptation- interesting. Hope this occurs. I will be keeping you posted, I assure you :). So at the risk of sounding silly I have put off getting an Alum block because my brain is telling me that anything with part of the word aluminum in it could be toxic and should stay on my car and off of my my body. Antiperspirants contain aluminum and those used to cause skin reactions for me many years ago and when I switched to normal deodorant the prob went away. I am scheduled to go do down the internet rabbit hole on this subject at some point this week but if you have any thoughts prior to this journey I would definitely be interested to hear them. Regards
@@richp.738 I understand regarding the alum block use. Lots of alternatives like Witch Hazel, etc.:) Careful of that rabbit hole!:) Well, what I mean to say in editing my response its, there's goin to be alot of information to sift through on this subject. I've already started a search and there's a lot of information. The goal is finding the mot reliable in order to make an informed decision. I'll keep looking and if I find something will follow up.:) Bottom line, you know your health and body best. Do what is best for you. :)
Have you tried the Lord Platinum Double Edge Razor Blades?
I have not. Those are made in Egypt, I believe?
I think there the company that makes shark blades I have some of the Lord blades and they say made by the Lord company
Update do not get them if you have sensitive skin they'll eat you alive
@@m40mclean9 Thanks.
Are the derby premium blades smoother than the astras?
It's close. Astras are pretty darn smooth. Derby Premiums are good, but I'd say that Astras are probably a notch sharper and a tad smoother, IMHO. But, still I like the Derby Premiums. YMMV, obviously.
Mark Szorady thank you for that information I had astras before I’m going to give the derby’s a try I also like the shark super crome a lot
@@Carlosgarcia-og7hf I just ordered the Shark super Chrome blades .:) I look forward to using them.:)
I bought a 100 pack of Astra SP for 7 bucks while they were on sale on Amazon. I've been using Feather but they seem to irritate my skin. I need a sharp blade but one that is smoother.
I like Astra blades a lot. I've used Feathers in the past, but found them to be so sharp I'll only use in my Godfather razor due to it's mild quality. Admittedly, I need to give them a go in some other razors.:)
use Astra or Derby extra,,and if you so sensitive derby premium.
If you are getting cut up or irritate then perhaps if not already add a pre-shave oil
@@allthingsgood7976The Astras ended up being horrible. I got two sharp blades out of 35. Nothing but pulling and tugging until I got to those unusually sharp ones. I ended up buying some Gillette 7 o'clock greens and they have been fantastic. I bought some pre-shave oil along with some other stuff from Stirling and my shaves are pretty good now. The feather blades still irritate my skin though. They aren't for me.
@@ThaRedPitbull Persona Red are very comfortable. It's good you have a nice routine. I was given Truefitt and Hill products for my birthday... preshave oil, cream, and lotion... amazing products.
A strong recommendation is to have your face well wet with warm to hot water before applying the preshave and heat your bowl with your razor in it with hot water... warm/hot razor especially during the first pass is very soothing. I always use very light contact and do not keep scraping the blade against skin that has no cream on it, once or twice and that's it. Better to do 3 light passes than tear up the skin with multiple strokes with pressure.
hi looking for a nice smooth mild blade what would u suggest .i dont like astra greens lol ..thank u
Lots from which to choose. The PAA Strangelets are great!
(Affiliate links)
Platinum Strangelet Super Sharps Double Edge Blades | Epic 100 Pack!: phoenixartisanaccoutrements.com/products/platinum-strangelet-super-sharps-double-edge-blades-by-phoenix-shaving-100-pack-limited-introductory-price?rfsn=4063161.c96a427
Lord Platinum Blades are nice and smooth
Lord Platinum Double Edge Safety Razor Blades, 100 blades: amzn.to/3FOd1WU
I also like Loi Titanium
100 Loi Titanium Double Edge Razor Blades: amzn.to/3LmF0OC
Having said this, the approach is get a razor blade sampler and try a few different brands.
Here's a page with various selections: amzn.to/3MkaiHj
@@MarkSzoradynew subscriber .thanks very much for getting back to me so fast .i think ill try the lords and maybe the derby premiums ..look forward to watching your videos .thanks again
@Tomas - Aerials My pleasure.
And can you tell me which better blade with open com razor and close com razor
All about personal preference really. Get a sample pack off amazon or another retailer and try some different brands. Many people like Astra, derby extra, Dorco and I do not at all! Maybe I'm just picky? So far Voskhod and Wilkinson sword have worked for me. I'll say for Wilkinson sword it was the first ones I tried that didnt rip my face off so I stuck with them for ever. The Voskhod have been a very pleasant surprise and less than half the price of the Wilkinson swords. Good luck!
So do you have to clean and dry the razer blade after every time use it
I do. It's part of my daily shaving routine. I simply pat the blade dry (I don't rub), dry the razor and then reassemble everything so it's ready for the next morning's shave. Or ,I'll toss the blade if I've had a number of shaves with it and install a new blade.:)
@@MarkSzorady thank you for letting me know
@@jamiejack764 My pleasure.:)
where do you buy them in olean ,ny
I buy most of my blades on amazon. Treet blades i bought from Connaught Shaving because, at that time, the exchange rate was lsightly in my favor.:) connaughtshaving.com/
Will the derby extra (green box) fit the new King C. Gillette razor? Also, which blade is best or most preferred the derby extra (green box) or the derby premium (black box)???
Derby blades will get any DE razor including the Gillette Heritage and Gillette King C. Gillette
@@MarkSzorady Hi Mark, thank you for your answer, helpful and much appreciated!
Which one would you say is better the extra blades or the premium ones? I’ve only used the extra ones (green box) in the past.
@@MeasureTwice-CutOnce21 Give the premiums a try. Also, Astra Green, Persoanna REd, PAA Platinum Strangelet, Loi, lots of great blades at many different price points:)
What is the difference between the extra and premium ones?
@@MeasureTwice-CutOnce21 Premiums seem to be a bit thinner and a bit sharper. There's also an extra smoothness
Nice collection man. I am watching this video while heading to work. Will watch it again later. To write down some blades too where talking about to try them out. Just one thing. Need you to talk a little loud. But besides that. Great video. 👍🏻👍🏻
Thanks very much.:) Glad you found it helpful.:) Apologies for the sound. I'm aware of the audio. Videos after this one (and some others) have had the volume turned up. Other viewers noticed the same. So, I do some things with volume when editing.:)
Your video was great sir. Can’t wait to see more like this was also. I enjoy your information you have out. And I will subscribe to your channel
@@albertcastro409 Thank you very much.:)