Merkur Model 178 Classic Safety Razor, Straight

This razor has a small but important learning curve. If you're used to using something like a Mach 3 (as that was my first wet shave razor)or any of the multi-blades this will take some getting used to. Small easy strokes with absolutely no pressure except by the weight of this razor are the way to go. Do one stroke with one side, another stroke with the other then rense. One pass with the grain for most is the way to go but if you desire a closer shave then I suggest re-lather, (which is important for wetshaving) and lightly shave across, not against the grain. For those wanting a good shave, you will have to spend a little more time than using the multiblade razors. I suggest a badger hair brush with some traditional shave cream or soap like Geo F. Trumpers or Trufitt or Taylor of Old Bond Street. Plan on no less than five minutes for a good close shave from the start of lathering to toweling off. I also suggest a skin food from Trumpers or some preshave oil from The Art of...Read more

You can hardly do better than a non-adjustible safety razor made by Merkur if you're just starting out. The only one that might be a better choice is the "hefty" variant of the Classic, but it costs a bit more, too.

I've been shaving with this razor for a year now and I really love it. Remember: the blade you put in it is even more important than the razor! Your milage may vary, but the Merkur blades are not the best. Try Swedish Gillettes or Derbys, Israelis, or - my fav - the ninja-sharp Feathers from Japan.

Also remember: no pressure when you shave with these! Let the weight of the razor do the work, and make multiple passes, lathering each time.

Happy shaving!

After 15 years of shaving with Mach3 or its predecessors, I decided to give double-edged razors a try. The results are so much better! You have to be careful the first times, as there is a tendency to apply too much pressure when you're used to M3. Since I started using this Merkur, six months ago, I haven't had ingrown hairs, and when I get nicks, they're much smaller and cleaner than those produced by multi-blade cartridges.
The proof of the pudding for me is how painless it is to shave long growth with a double edge razor. If you've tried to shave a 7 day growth with a Mach3, you know what I'm talking about!
A related recommendation is that you use real shaving soap or cream, not canned foam.