MerkurMk34c Double Edge Razor with Heavy Duty Short Handle

After trying several options, the Merkur Mk34c has become my favorite razor. It has a sturdy design with a short, heavy handle that offers excellent control, especially for those who prefer a closer shave. The weight of the handle does most of the work, so you don't need to apply pressure, which significantly reduces skin irritation.The steel construction is solid and durable; you can tell it's a well-made product, designed to last for years. Changing blades is a breeze thanks to the two-piece design, and the closed comb provides a close yet smooth shave.I especially recommend it to those just starting out in the world of classic shaving. It's an excellent investment and, in the long run, much more economical and environmentally friendly than disposable or cartridge razors.

I was hesitant to jump into the new world of safety razors, but now looking back I am glad I did. The Merkur MK34C is a great entry handle in my opinion. While I personally haven't tried any other options out there (besides a $5 piece of junk that I threw away a day later) I can certainly say that for $45 - this was very worth it. It may not have all the bells and whistles that other options may have, but it certainly gets the job done.My girlfriend also uses the same handle (different blades) and absolutely loves the close shave, the size and cost. I honestly believe this razor setup with a variety pack of blades is a great choice for beginners.So far I have had it for 3 or 4 months and there are no signs of rust, and it still does an amazing job every single time.A couple notes. I do think the short handle is indeed short (as the description says) but I didn't think it would be THAT short. It's still very usable, but do be aware. A longer handle option may suit you better.The handle can get kind of slick when using shaving cream even though it has "grips" on it. I would expect that a slightly longer handle may help with this.All in all, if you are looking for a clean, close shave, cost effective and great quality - this is a fantastic option.1 Year Update:Considerable money saved having the Mercur Razor. It has worked excellent during the duration that I have had it.There has been several times that I have forgotten to take the blade out, and the blade will rust but the handle will not, which is great. Obviously don't push your luck, but so far it stands up strong against rust.10/10 - I love it - I'm sold - highly recommend

I want to first start off by saying that I think the folks who are writing reviews about this style of razors having a "learning curve" to learn how to use must be either crazy- or this is just the perfect razor.I am a 39 year old man- and before this razor I had never shaved with a old style double edge safety razor. From reading the reviews (on a lot of razors) I was really worried that I was going to nick up my face and bleed. Out of the box this was a true pleasure to shave with-- the shave is hands down the best shave I've ever had. Even my wife commented and I hadn't told her I had tried a new razor.From reading dozens of reviews I found this model kept coming up in reviews as a good choice so I took the plunge- and man am I happy I did. I also bought a high quality shaving soap and lather brush- and a stand to hold everything. Reminds me of a time from long ago. I almost didn't shave the first time as I was so worried that I was going to Nick myself and walk around looking like a 14 year old kid with band aids- but that didn't happen-- I followed all the good advice from other reviews and went at it.Here's a short list of what worked for me.A: Buy quality- I almost bought the $19.99 as seen on TV razor from the history Channels "Pawn Stars" reality show ( I love that show-) but after reading the reviews it was obvious that for slightly more money- just a little bit more I could do better. So go with quality- and get a HEAVY razor that is of heirloom quality.B: Really wet your face with HOT water prior to shavingC: Buy a really good shaving/lather brush with real animal hair- get it very wet and hot before shavingD: Buy a high quality shaving soap- and use hot hot water and your brush to really get a great lather. ( I just went with the #1 seller on Amazon and was very happy-- it's smoothness and scent was an instant hit and I knew all was good)E: Let the weight of the razor do all the work- don't pull the razor- just line it up, give a quick angle to have the blade make contact and let the weight of the razor do the workFor the love of god please, don't ever shave against the grain of your face-- DUH!F: Use a good after shave/conditionerOverall all I have sensitive skin and coarse facial hair (think 2pm shadow). My first shave through I had zero issues. No burn, no nicks, no redness and no blood-- just a great shave. And for those who say it now takes them longer to shave I say NAY! My first time it took no more than 90 seconds longer than normal and that included opening the boxes putting in the razor blade ( which was brainless by the way just in case you're worried about it like I was) unwrapping the soap and the brush etc.This has become the way I will shave forever-- hell maybe in 100 years a grandchild of mine will have that razor in their bathroom and use it everyday- the quality is top notch. It's an heirloom and you don't even have to be close to a rocket scientist to use it. Don't let all the reviews of nicks and rash scare you- I'm convinced those reviews are from guys out there who may be a little clueless on most matters of hygiene.End note-I did a lot of research on which razor blades to buy- this razor only comes with one. I have chosen Astra blades after reading through many reviews and they work excellent for me.I did read some reviews that say you have to shave twice with this type of razor- I have not found that to be true- it seems that I get a great shave with just one pass- although I have tried a second pass from time to time but mostly because its just fun to shave with this razor and the brush and lather is so awesome. I do not see any really noticeable difference between one shave and two pass shaving- but that could be just me.If you are thinking of going to this type of shave- buy this razor and enjoy- Since I started shaving I've always used the cheap 8 pack generic throw away brands from rite aide--- never again. This razor is truly shaving the way it should be. I only wish I had figured that out 20+ years ago.Disclaimer: I am not an expert in shaving by any stretch. Shaving is obviously inherently dangerous- be careful shaving. Just because it worked for me out of the box doesn't mean it will for you. GO SLOW let the weight of the razor do the work. Don't cut your face up. If you think you can't handle it don't do it. It worked for me but that's no guarantee it will work for you- so don't go and get all pissy if you cut yourself- everyone's face is different. Read the reviews. Get a game plan-- watch some you tube videos. Buy good equipment and enjoy the shave safely.