Bests & Worsts Reviews from Amazon

I've spent the last six months learning how to make shaving less of a chore. My first step was using a high quality shaving cream, a shaving brush, and a good moisturizer. While researching these items, I read more and more about the advantages of DE (Double Edge) safety razors. I decided to buy one and I couldn't be happier with my choice. I almost went with the German made Merkur Heavy Duty (34c) razor, which seems to be the most commonly recommended DE for a new safety-razor-shaver. I'm glad I continued to investigate razors (the Badger and Blade internet forum is a fantastic resource) because the English made Edwin Jagger De89 is considered, by many, to be superior to the Merkur. First of all, its appearance; it may be the brightest, shiniest thing I own. It's chroming is deep, flawless, and bright. The chroming method used is the same used by Rolls Royce for its chrome accents. The Edwin Jagger De89 comes with either a vertically lined handle, or a smooth handle. I went with the lined as I thought it might provide a little extra traction with wet hands. The razor arrived in a nice, blue, textured presentation box (however, the box did get a little crushed during shipping.) The razor itself is an absolute joy to use. As stated in many reviews, the balance and weight is absolutely perfect. The handle is a little longer than the Merkur HD, which is good for me (I have large hands). After watching a few instructional youtube videos regarding proper angle and razor use, I gave it a try. It was unlike any shave I've ever had before (it's been all cartridge or disposable razors in my past). The solid weight of the razor against my face just felt... better. It also heats up as you rinse it and retains that heat, which felt great against my skin. After just a few, careful shaves, I already felt very confident with the use of the razor. The shaves are wonderfully close (as good as any I've ever had), and the little red bumps on my lower neck that I always assumed I'd have forever have begun to fade (believe it or not, a DE razor is much kinder to your face). As for blades, I recommend ordering a sample pack, as different blades act and react differently with every face. It's just another customizable aspect of DE Shaving. Even if you decide to change your blade after three or four shaves (as many do) you will still find it cheaper than cartridge razors. Update: It's been a few months, and now that I have a good deal more experience I thought I'd post an update. I now have seven or eight razors, including Merkurs, vintage-Gillettes, and some vintage single-edge Gems - and the Edwin Jagger is STILL my favorite razor. The shaves are amazingly smooth, and while not as "aggressive" as some of my other razors, it gives just as close a shave. When I finally got a Merkur I was very disappointed in its finish. Merkurs are the most popular new DE razors sold, and I guess I was expecting more. Don't get me wrong, they're fine razors, but they come with little scratches and tool marks that slightly mar the finish. The Edwin Jagger, with its perfect plating and great shaving-characteristics just makes me happy every time I pick it up.