Classic shaving is a culture that has been around for over a century.
Along the line, many brands of safety razors have graced many homes; some are extinct now, some are still around, and new brands and models are still coming up.
A few words to commend the men and women that have held the culture for decades, ensuring it didn’t fizzle out, thank you.
The art of classic shaving is not just a chore we wake up to do; it’s a culture, a daily ritual that has kept many great men and women in great shape for over a century.
The culture has been passed from generation to generation and sustained as a practice of nobility.
The safety razor was first used in the 1880s as a safe alternative to the rather imposing straight razor.
It, however, became more popular in the 1900s after the invention of the double-edged safety razor, which has been the preferred choice of razor type since then.
The safety razor was so named because it is safer than the straight razor, inclined at an angle where the blade interacts with the skin gently while cutting the hairs deeply, such was the perfection of the safety razor, no surprises it has been around for this long.
Enough with the history.
Let’s talk about qualities the best safety razor should have.
A good grip
A good grip is one of the most fundamental functionalities of every razor because shaving involves extremely sharp edges pressed against the skin.
A poor grip could cause a cut when mistakes occur. A razor with a good grip makes the shaver more confident in handling the razor.
Balance and weight distribution along the razor’s body: although most people prefer a heavier head such that the weight the head exerts on the body does some of the work.
It is also essential that in cases where the head isn’t heavier than the handle, it shouldn’t be less than 50% of the entire body weight.
Flexible blade
A flexible blade adjusts to the condition of the skin Vis a Vis the shaving, this helps to prevent uneven shaving and cuts.
Top-quality metal
This is as important as every other quality stated above combined.
Good quality metal and the subsequent coating ensure durability and efficiency; cheap, poor quality metal razors that are either lightweight or rusts in storage and will do more harm to the skin.
What is the best quality razor for overall use?
Merkur 23c Long Handle Safety Razor
Here’s why; The Merkur 23C long handle safety razor is a longer handle version of the Merkur – 15C classic shaving razor.
The longer handle provides more comfortability in handling the razor and the ease of control that comes with it.
Along with the excellence associated with the craftsmanship and manufacturing of German engineering, Merkur razors are made with top quality stainless steel and come in chrome finishing.
Before I proceed, there are a few things the Merkur brand is known for;
Consistency: the Merkur brand has been in existence for over 120 years and has consistently delivered quality over the last twelve decades. The consistency in quality has kept a lot of classic shavers loyal to the brand and won many more loyalists along the line.
Innovation: Here is a brand that doesn’t shy away from innovation and has consistently taken charge of many innovative designs to meet with changing realities. One of such innovations birthed the Merkur 23C long handle safety razor.
Design: The design of Merkur razors have consistently centred on user experience and ways to make them better. While many people have peculiar needs, certain razors come in handy in overall use, and the Merkur 23C long handle safety razor is one of such.
What makes the Merkur 23C long handle safety razor special
Although it might not command the price of other valued safety razors, there are many qualities of the Merkur – 23C that have made it endearing to the many users who have placed it in their hands for shaving.
Beginner-friendly: The Merkur 23C is ideally suited to those making the first switch from either disposable razors or cartridge razors as it is pretty easy to use for the beginner. It is uncomplicated and does its job without much stress. The inclusive guard option makes it easier for new wet shaving enthusiasts.
Balanced weight distribution: For those that prefer heavier razors, the Merkur 23C is not the ideal razor, but for those who prefer the balance, this is undoubtedly the easier choice of razor. The balanced weight gives the shaver complete control over the shaving.
Pricing: For so many first-timers in classic shaving, finding the suitable razor of choice is quite an ardent task. If it isn’t the price, it would be the design or something else. Still, for the Merkur 23C, there is a difference. Stainless steel finished razors are pretty pricey, and the 23C instead has a chrome finished body that produces a manly metal appearance and protects the core metal used in the construction. This has made it an affordable option while keeping the efficiency associated with it in place.
Easy to clean: The removable head makes it easier when it comes to cleaning the razor.
Efficiency: Sometimes, people might wonder why the Merkur 23C is so popular among classic shavers. It’s simple and efficient; it does the simple job it is designed to do with excellent efficiency.
Easy handling: The 4″ long handle makes it easier to handle the razor.
Longevity: The model has been in existence since the 1920s, making it one of the earlier models of the Merkur brand. It has continued to enjoy widespread use since then.
Last words
The Merkur 23C is one of those things that doesn’t have to command a ridiculous price before it does an efficient job.
It is one of the most functional double-edge safety razors in production and certainly, the best when it comes to overall performance.
It’s the perfect choice for new wet shaving enthusiasts and, at the same time, a classic tool for veterans in wet shaving.