Weekly Razor Review

[Errol]

Colonial CR7 – Plate 3



I looked at the Colonial CR7 when it was released, but when I saw it was aluminium, screwed my nose up at it hoping that it would be released in stainless steel. Later I was then sniffing around and found that they had a big discount on the sale price, that was enough to get me across the line even though it is still only available in aluminium. For a few extra dollars I could have all three plates but the only plate that looked appealing was the Plate #3, why buy the additional plates when there is little likelihood of ever using them. That left only the choice between a silver or black anodized finish; black thank you, the same colour as my heart.

Three dots in the top of the plate identify it as the plate I ordered and that is the only marking on the whole razor. A shallow hole has been machined into the back of the plate for the handle to mate into and rounded edges on the back of the plate give it a somewhat upmarket appeal. Elongated, blind holes in the top of the plate do not permit the blade posts to protrude through and there is a wide blade clamping surface that corresponds with matching flats on the outer edge of the cap. All good so far but then they stuff all their good work by having some of the sloppiest threads. There has been some attempt to knurl the front section of the handle but with dry hands, Colonial might as well have left it bare. Wet hands usually provide a better grip, so I’m not too concerned at this time, but it’s worth noting. One thing that did appeal to me was the quality of the black surface coat, it looks thick and has been evenly applied.

Results from the first shave confirm that I done the right thing by not ordering the milder plates. Efficiency of the CR7 with the Plate #3 was only about Karve CB Level #B and there was barely any positive blade; I think I would need Plate #5 or maybe even Plate #6 to get the shave where I felt comfortable, if only they made them. Sure the shave was smooth, and it was certainly safe, but? Grip on the handle was better with wet hands, but at best it could only be described as minimal. The CR7 looks like a budget razor that Colonial developed to gain themselves some working capital and to get their name back out there. Hopefully Colonial learn from this exercise and get back to delivering stainless steel and brass versions of razors as good as some of the extra special models they started out making.

Blades Used – Gillette Nacet and Royal II

Material – 6061 Aluminium

Blade Tab - Covered

Weight – 44.3g

Head Width – 43.02mm

Handle Length – 89.41mm

Handle Diameter – 12.98mm

Availability – Colonial

Final Word – Another razor

 

[SpeedyPC]

Colonial CR7 – Plate 3



I looked at the Colonial CR7 when it was released, but when I saw it was aluminium, screwed my nose up at it hoping that it would be released in stainless steel. Later I was then sniffing around and found that they had a big discount on the sale price, that was enough to get me across the line even though it is still only available in aluminium. For a few extra dollars I could have all three plates but the only plate that looked appealing was the Plate #3, why buy the additional plates when there is little likelihood of ever using them. That left only the choice between a silver or black anodized finish; black thank you, the same colour as my heart.

Three dots in the top of the plate identify it as the plate I ordered and that is the only marking on the whole razor. A shallow hole has been machined into the back of the plate for the handle to mate into and rounded edges on the back of the plate give it a somewhat upmarket appeal. Elongated, blind holes in the top of the plate do not permit the blade posts to protrude through and there is a wide blade clamping surface that corresponds with matching flats on the outer edge of the cap. All good so far but then they stuff all their good work by having some of the sloppiest threads. There has been some attempt to knurl the front section of the handle but with dry hands, Colonial might as well have left it bare. Wet hands usually provide a better grip, so I’m not too concerned at this time, but it’s worth noting. One thing that did appeal to me was the quality of the black surface coat, it looks thick and has been evenly applied.

Results from the first shave confirm that I done the right thing by not ordering the milder plates. Efficiency of the CR7 with the Plate #3 was only about Karve CB Level #B and there was barely any positive blade; I think I would need Plate #5 or maybe even Plate #6 to get the shave where I felt comfortable, if only they made them. Sure the shave was smooth, and it was certainly safe, but? Grip on the handle was better with wet hands, but at best it could only be described as minimal. The CR7 looks like a budget razor that Colonial developed to gain themselves some working capital and to get their name back out there. Hopefully Colonial learn from this exercise and get back to delivering stainless steel and brass versions of razors as good as some of the extra special models they started out making.

Blades Used – Gillette Nacet and Royal II

Material – 6061 Aluminium

Blade Tab - Covered

Weight – 44.3g

Head Width – 43.02mm

Handle Length – 89.41mm

Handle Diameter – 12.98mm

Availability – Colonial

Final Word – Another razor

It’s sad to see and known that Colonial razors have STOPPED making stainless steel razors, they only selling aluminium razors, because, it’s cheaper to make them and cheaper to sell them.

 

[Bladerunner7]

It’s sad to see and known that Colonial razors have STOPPED making stainless steel razors, they only selling aluminium razors, because, it’s cheaper to make them and cheaper to sell them.

I think that isn't right mate. Only one Brother owns and runs the business now. The Colonial CR 7 wasn't meant to be a cheap razor to make profits. It was an exploration like all their other razors were with different metals. The aim was to create an aluminum razor with different level base plates.

Go back in time and it was the Aluminum Colonial General V1 that was manufactured first, then the Brass and then the SS. Don't forget that they were first machined in China as well before the manufacturing was moved to the USA later on. The General was an exploration too before it became a successful and well loved product, done with that they moved on to DE from SE and now a DE Aluminum. So contrary to your statement mate, Colonial Razors started with Aluminum and have just come whole circle. Stainless Steel was third in line and was never intended or meant to be their main metal.

Just for the record, this is their last offering. I'm lucky to have picked the same razor that Errol reviewed as in the CR-7 with the Level 3 plate. I use mine as a travel razor and actually love it much. I always get a two pass BBS with a Feather or a Wizamet in it and that's coning from someone who favors more aggressive razors. I have to agree that the handle does screw on awkwardly but once it is tightened, its all great.