Weekly Razor Review

[Pbgoose]

We could probably have a hundred reviews of modern GEM razors, and we would probably end up with a hundred different impressions. @Errol has given us a less than glowing review of the Sabre V1 L2, and now likewise for the V2 L3. For a while I had wondered if he just didn't get along with that blade format, but his impressions of the Vestige, and to an extent the WR3 belied that. (Page 88 of this thread: I can't see it in the index, which is mostly out of date now.)

The Vestige (++) BTW is still my #1 choice for GEM.

Yes, the Vestige is very good. Next on my shopping list which is dormant at the moment.

 

[Vittoria]

Kampfe KaiTian Ultra Light (China).



Your head would never stop spinning if you tried to keep up with every new razor release from China, the online retailers are brimming full of them. I was checking to see if one of the more reliable suppliers on AliExpress had any new product releases when I stumbled onto this, the Kampfe KaiTian Ultra Light razor. Borrowing a recognised manufacturers design has never bothered any Chinese company, but why stop at pirating their design, might as well steal a name from the past as well, let’s call it a Kampfe. At least this Kampfe is a double edged design, but they appear to be materialising in plague proportions so it is inevitable that a single edged razor will eventuate; ah shit, they already have.

Being titanium was only part of what drew me to the KaiTian Ultra Light, its head design looked very familiar and appeared that it might work, after all, the head design has Blutt written all over it. There was no information available on performance, but the blade gaps on offer were familiar so I selected the 1.2mm option over the alternate 0.9mm, time will tell. That long neck on the handle is reminiscent (reminiscent – bull shit, it is a dead set copy) of the one fitted to Blackland’s Vector SE razor, it will be interesting to see if a thin, long necked handle can successfully be utilized on a double edge razor, I’d not seen that done before. Being a copy of the Swiss designed Blutt, the head has all the usual Blutt features; wide flats positioned at the outer extremities of the cap for blade clamping, elongated blade posts on the cap mating to blind holes in the plate all in an ultra-thin profile. Where Kampfe have really excelled is in the polishing department, beautiful deep lustre with not a sign of a machine mark, all complimented by the underside of the cap and the top of the plate being bead blasted.

It was half way through the first pass before it dawned on me that I was using a pencil thin handle that I’d previously only used on the machine downed AC bladed single edge razors, no problem, it was working a treat. Whoever done the CAD drawings for the Kampfe could not read a vernier or mixed the measurements up during the transcription; efficiency was around Karve CB Level #C and the blade feel was only just on the positive side of neutral, but by hell it was smooth. On reflection, I’m pleased I purchased the 1.20mm gap, otherwise the KaiTian would have been way too mild for me. This is not the titanium Blutt that so many of us were calling for, but it will suit those who appreciate a beautifully made and polished titanium razor delivering a smooth shave with mid-range efficiency and only a little positive blade; if this is you, go for it, but I was left wanting.

Blades Used – Gillette Rapira and Willy’s

Material – Titanium

Weight – 52.7g

Blade Tab - Covered

Head Width – 43.35mm

Handle Length – 90.27mm

Handle Diameter – 10.99mm

Availability – AliExpress

Final Word – Everything borrowed

Firstly great review mate I enjoyed the read it brought a smile to my face and reminded me just how many design and name ripoffs there are out there.
One that springs to mind is the Chinese copy of the The Goodfellas' smile Syntesi (they even use the same name!) on aliexpress
It even says "Italy Precision-engineered " apart form the small differences in the top cap and base plate its a very close copy.
If you haven't seen it it's worth a look just to see how similar this ripoff is the the fine Italian original.
Cheers.

 

[Gargravarr]

If you haven't seen it it's worth a look just to see how similar this ripoff is the the fine Italian original.

It used to be a bit breathtaking to witness the brazenness of their outright theft of artisans' designs. But now we are inured to the comprehensive theft carried out to feed so-called artificial intelligence, we are forced to helplessly shrug our shoulders.

There are NEVER any consequences. EVER.

 

[Errol]

Reggie’s Razor Jupiter Brass (England)



An almost 100mm long handle is a bit of an oddity these days, most razors are supplied with handles in the 85/ 90mm range. There are many who prefer the longer handle so it’s pleasing to see Reggie’s Razor catering for that demand. If, however they supplied the handle at 85mm it would have easily reduced the weight of the razor to under 100g, and with a hole in the end of the handle we could have been elated at the weight of the supplied razor, but we weren’t. Two rails on the top of the plate are utilized for blade clamping. These align with the inner face of the extra wide blade clamping surfaces of the cap. One wide lather clearing groove on each side of the plate disperse the residual waste and with no relief at the back of the plate, it looks quite chunky. A quality polished finish completes the build.

What a joy to use, the solid feel of the Jupiter counteracted what is a razor that is a bit on the chubby side. I was in awe of how comfortable and steady the razor felt in my hand, it just went about its business without any fuss. Even with the long handle, maneuverability was never an issue providing a quick and pleasant shaving experience. With efficiency on the high side of Karve CB Level #C and a well thought out amount of positive blade, the shave was ever so smooth and comfortable. This is another one of those razors that I could have continued using. Such pleasing results got me thinking that a stainless steel variant would make a special addition to the collection. I know I threatened to purchase a Reggie’s Saturn (stainless steel) previously but now I’ve got to have one; I’ve ordered it and it’s in the mail.

Blades Used – Gillette Minora and Royal II

Material – CZ121 Brass

Weight – 124.6g

Blade Tab - Covered

Head Width – 43.01mm

Handle Length – 99.80mm

Handle Diameter – 11.94mm

Availability – Reggie’s Razors

Final Word – Give me more

 

[SpeedyPC]

Reggie’s Razor Jupiter Brass (England)



An almost 100mm long handle is a bit of an oddity these days, most razors are supplied with handles in the 85/ 90mm range. There are many who prefer the longer handle so it’s pleasing to see Reggie’s Razor catering for that demand. If, however they supplied the handle at 85mm it would have easily reduced the weight of the razor to under 100g, and with a hole in the end of the handle we could have been elated at the weight of the supplied razor, but we weren’t. Two rails on the top of the plate are utilized for blade clamping. These align with the inner face of the extra wide blade clamping surfaces of the cap. One wide lather clearing groove on each side of the plate disperse the residual waste and with no relief at the back of the plate, it looks quite chunky. A quality polished finish completes the build.

What a joy to use, the solid feel of the Jupiter counteracted what is a razor that is a bit on the chubby side. I was in awe of how comfortable and steady the razor felt in my hand, it just went about its business without any fuss. Even with the long handle, maneuverability was never an issue providing a quick and pleasant shaving experience. With efficiency on the high side of Karve CB Level #C and a well thought out amount of positive blade, the shave was ever so smooth and comfortable. This is another one of those razors that I could have continued using. Such pleasing results got me thinking that a stainless steel variant would make a special addition to the collection. I know I threatened to purchase a Reggie’s Saturn (stainless steel) previously but now I’ve got to have one; I’ve ordered it and it’s in the mail.

Blades Used – Gillette Minora and Royal II

Material – CZ121 Brass

Weight – 124.6g

Blade Tab - Covered

Head Width – 43.01mm

Handle Length – 99.80mm

Handle Diameter – 11.94mm

Availability – Reggie’s Razors

Final Word – Give me more

Here's a clear side view of the stainless steel version, which looks very similar to RazoRock BBS style shave, maybe?

Also, here's a clear side view of the brass version FYI

 

[Errol]

Here's a clear side view of the stainless steel version, which looks very similar to RazoRock BBS style shave, maybe?

Also, here's a clear side view of the brass version FYI

Thanks for posting the photos @SpeedyPC. I never thought there would be so much chance in the design of the plates. Will be compelled now to use the Saturn.

 

[SpeedyPC]

Thanks for posting the photos @SpeedyPC. I never thought there would be so much chance in the design of the plates. Will be compelled now to use the Saturn.

I always double checked the head design, because, not all razors have the same head for each steel metal types.

 

[Errol]

The Razor Company Vanguard – Plus (USA)



The Razor Company has good reason to be well proud of their Vanguard razor. As I unpack the razor I’m surprised at the quality of the polished finish; then I disassemble the head, and low and behold, the underside of the cap is polished. Sure, there are machine marks visible through the polish, but the light must be in the right direction for these machine marks to stand out. Instead of round blade posts TRC has machined diamond shaped blade posts that mate into corresponding cut outs in the plate. Engraved on the underside of the plate is the company name and on one end of the plate – PLUS, how simple is that? There is a definite Gillette influence in the style of the handle, longitudinal grooves and fine knurling. Then to rub salt into the big names razor company’s wounds, TRC have drilled out the handle and given us a fully stainless steel razor weighing in under 90g.

Until I used the Vanguard, I’d been thinking that manufacturers who had released new razors in 2025 existed only to line their pockets and showed very little interest in satisfying their customers requirement to get a decent shave for their dollar. Thank you TRC, your Vanguard is a great razor, it is not overly expensive and delivered a Karve CB Level #D efficient shave with a robust but usable amount of positive blade. Sure, I opened up the point of my chin that bleed on and off all day with my first stroke, but most of that was put down to the operator’s poor technique, just don’t let your guard down, this razor has the potential to bite. After developing a healthy respect for the Vanguard’s ability, I enjoyed smooth and comfortable shaves for the remainder of the review. TRC’s Vanguard is a razor that will suit many shavers’ requirement for a mid-efficiency razor, it is readily available without mortgaging the house to obtain one.

Blades Used – Gillette Nacet and Willy’s

Material – 316L Stainless Steel

Weight – 88.5g

Blade Tab - Covered

Head Width – 43.51mm

Handle Length – 89.25mm

Handle Diameter – 11.55mm

Availability – The Razor Company

Final Word – My kind of razor

 

[SpeedyPC]

The Razor Company Vanguard – Plus (USA)



The Razor Company has good reason to be well proud of their Vanguard razor. As I unpack the razor I’m surprised at the quality of the polished finish; then I disassemble the head, and low and behold, the underside of the cap is polished. Sure, there are machine marks visible through the polish, but the light must be in the right direction for these machine marks to stand out. Instead of round blade posts TRC has machined diamond shaped blade posts that mate into corresponding cut outs in the plate. Engraved on the underside of the plate is the company name and on one end of the plate – PLUS, how simple is that? There is a definite Gillette influence in the style of the handle, longitudinal grooves and fine knurling. Then to rub salt into the big names razor company’s wounds, TRC have drilled out the handle and given us a fully stainless steel razor weighing in under 90g.

Until I used the Vanguard, I’d been thinking that manufacturers who had released new razors in 2025 existed only to line their pockets and showed very little interest in satisfying their customers requirement to get a decent shave for their dollar. Thank you TRC, your Vanguard is a great razor, it is not overly expensive and delivered a Karve CB Level #D efficient shave with a robust but usable amount of positive blade. Sure, I opened up the point of my chin that bleed on and off all day with my first stroke, but most of that was put down to the operator’s poor technique, just don’t let your guard down, this razor has the potential to bite. After developing a healthy respect for the Vanguard’s ability, I enjoyed smooth and comfortable shaves for the remainder of the review. TRC’s Vanguard is a razor that will suit many shavers’ requirement for a mid-efficiency razor, it is readily available without mortgaging the house to obtain one.

Blades Used – Gillette Nacet and Willy’s

Material – 316L Stainless Steel

Weight – 88.5g

Blade Tab - Covered

Head Width – 43.51mm

Handle Length – 89.25mm

Handle Diameter – 11.55mm

Availability – The Razor Company

Final Word – My kind of razor

Interesting looking razor, here's side view to see the head more clearly

 

[Errol]

Alpha Guido (Hong Kong)



Alpha’s Guido was designed in conjunction with John Venturino, the wet shaving expert behind Stubble Meets Steel; time to look at what they have come up with. I don’t know whether to give Alpha Shaving, John Venturino or maybe both the big pat on the back for coming up with such a spectacular razor. And just to make the deal that little sweeter, both OC and SB plates along with a razor stand were included in the package. This week I’ll be concentrating on the SB plate. It’s a sure winner on the appearance side, I hope it shaves just as good as it looks. Love the handle, there is a definite Gillette influence along with a lot of UFO know how thrown in and the 10 x 53mm hole in its end certainly removed a lot of unnecessary weight, plus it contributed to the razor’s good balance. Round blade posts, quality thread engagement, extra wide blade clamping surfaces and good old fashioned engraving all contribute to make this one visually impressive tool. One not so positive aspect was the ‘water’ marks on the cap, both on the top and underside. They would not rub off, so out with the metal polish to remove them. Easy enough to rectify but it should not happen, Steve would surely know that I would comment on such a flaw to the finish. With the razor now sparkling, it was treated to a coating of Renaissance Wax. Because of the intricate machining of the handle, I don’t know that it got full coverage but if the quantity of Renaissance Wax means anything, it is going to be well protected. Alpha made a big deal about their generosity in providing one only, Filoso blade with their Guido. Should I use it or find something else, I’ll leave it in the packaging and grab a Gillette Minora, I know how good they are.

Before I had even received the Guido, Steve had emailed me offering a Plus plate. I didn’t take up the offer, but Steve, if you have one sitting on the desk gathering dust! I may never use it, but then again, I might, it would be great to have all options available. Efficiency of the standard plated Guido was only slightly above Karve CB level #C, but its well-proportioned positive blade ensured a smooth and comfortable shave. Its ability to easily wipe away whiskers made me feel confident in the razor’s ability. Maybe a little more efficiency would have been appreciated, and I should have purchased that Plus plate; I didn’t, but this is still a brilliant razor. If it takes a collaboration between a razor manufacturer and an expert wet shaver to deliver such a well performing razor then I’m all for it, bring them on.

Blades Used – Gillette Minora and Feather

Material – C20 Brass

Weight – 101.9g

Blade Tab - Covered

Head Width – 43.34mm

Handle Length – 85.98mm

Diameter – 12.99mm

Availability – Alpha Shaving

Final Word – More please

 

[LesC]

Alpha Guido (Hong Kong)



Alpha’s Guido was designed in conjunction with John Venturino, the wet shaving expert behind Stubble Meets Steel; time to look at what they have come up with. I don’t know whether to give Alpha Shaving, John Venturino or maybe both the big pat on the back for coming up with such a spectacular razor. And just to make the deal that little sweeter, both OC and SB plates along with a razor stand were included in the package. This week I’ll be concentrating on the SB plate. It’s a sure winner on the appearance side, I hope it shaves just as good as it looks. Love the handle, there is a definite Gillette influence along with a lot of UFO know how thrown in and the 10 x 53mm hole in its end certainly removed a lot of unnecessary weight, plus it contributed to the razor’s good balance. Round blade posts, quality thread engagement, extra wide blade clamping surfaces and good old fashioned engraving all contribute to make this one visually impressive tool. One not so positive aspect was the ‘water’ marks on the cap, both on the top and underside. They would not rub off, so out with the metal polish to remove them. Easy enough to rectify but it should not happen, Steve would surely know that I would comment on such a flaw to the finish. With the razor now sparkling, it was treated to a coating of Renaissance Wax. Because of the intricate machining of the handle, I don’t know that it got full coverage but if the quantity of Renaissance Wax means anything, it is going to be well protected. Alpha made a big deal about their generosity in providing one only, Filoso blade with their Guido. Should I use it or find something else, I’ll leave it in the packaging and grab a Gillette Minora, I know how good they are.

Before I had even received the Guido, Steve had emailed me offering a Plus plate. I didn’t take up the offer, but Steve, if you have one sitting on the desk gathering dust! I may never use it, but then again, I might, it would be great to have all options available. Efficiency of the standard plated Guido was only slightly above Karve CB level #C, but its well-proportioned positive blade ensured a smooth and comfortable shave. Its ability to easily wipe away whiskers made me feel confident in the razor’s ability. Maybe a little more efficiency would have been appreciated, and I should have purchased that Plus plate; I didn’t, but this is still a brilliant razor. If it takes a collaboration between a razor manufacturer and an expert wet shaver to deliver such a well performing razor then I’m all for it, bring them on.

Blades Used – Gillette Minora and Feather

Material – C20 Brass

Weight – 101.9g

Blade Tab - Covered

Head Width – 43.34mm

Handle Length – 85.98mm

Diameter – 12.99mm

Availability – Alpha Shaving

Final Word – More please

Errol, great review, yes a “beauty” to look at apparently a .95 plate will be in the offering. My name is down for a S/S one, then maybe one in Titanium (hint). The handle is so so close to the Gen 1 & 2 British Aristocrats, it’s worth buying for the handle only let alone 2 plates and a stand!!

 

[Bladerunner7]

(Wolfman) Guerrilla Ti 0.69mm OC (Canada)



There have been many less than flattering comments about the handle of the original Guerrilla over the last eight years of manufacture regarding its lack of grip and the aesthetics of having a straight shaft with no machining other than three narrow grooves at each end. Personally, I thought the handle suited the intended purpose, I have never had a grip issue and quite liked its presentation but that did not stop me from ordering this razor with the alternate Rebel handle. With a titanium Guerrilla on offer, its selection was never in doubt, in fact this razor would never have materialized had it not been titanium. Having previously been blown away by the performance of the 0.69mm plate, selection for the blade gap was simple; might as well try an open comb though. Also offered was a second plate so I grabbed a 0.84mm SB plate and that will be the review for next week. All the usual Guerrilla features are present including no excess material in the cap or the plate, blade clamping at the very edge, round blade posts on the cap that mate into blind holes in the plate, Guerrilla’s ever commendable thread engagement and the standard satin finish. Another feature I’d like to commend Guerrilla on is that each plate now has the blade gap engraved at the rear.

First shave completed and I’m caught off guard, so I scuttle out for my glasses to check that the plate really does have 0.69 engraved on it and my records of the SB 0.69; the Ti’s aggression was far more than I was expecting. Efficiency for the 0.69 plated OC Guerrilla was in excess of Karve CB Level #D and it had blade feel by the truck load; back to the old days of the OC version of a razor being more aggressive that the SB plated version. My approach to subsequent shaves was a lot more cautious. A close shave was never in doubt and some weepers on can testify to that; nothing major, just those small patches that close almost immediately. The teeth on the comb can be felt but they are rounded and smooth, so they just glide over the face and become a non-event after the first couple of shaves. Lately I’ve become critical of razor balance, especially on titanium razors, so it is pleasing to report that the Guerrilla’s balance is very good. It displays all the qualities of a top shelf razor, I have been a fan of the Guerrilla since its first inception and now with the blade posts relocated to the cap, a choice of efficiency levels and four different metals to choose from, I can’t speak highly enough of the Guerrilla. I appreciated my time with the 0.69mm OC plated Guerrilla but it demands respect.

Blades Used – Wizamet Polsilver and Royal II

Material – Gr5 Titanium

Weight – 55.9g

Blade Tab - Exposed

Head Width – 41.69mm

Handle Length – 89.98mm

Handle Diameter – 12.83mm

Availability – Guerrilla Razors

Final Word – SB Please

That's one rugged looking Ti razor. Excellent review @Errol

 

[Bladerunner7]

(Wolfman) Guerrilla Ti 0.84mm (Canada)



This week’s review is again with the Guerrilla Ti razor but fitted with the more efficient 0.84mm safety bar plate. Just what I don’t want, more blade gap than the 0.69mm plate used last week, I was not expecting that outcome. The satin finish that is a feature of every Guerrilla razor does a remarkable job in providing grip, it also helps when I favour a satin finish over just about every other finish available. Most machine finishes leave the razor with sharp edges and looking half done, polished surfaces must be done properly and look dejected as soon as the inevitable fingerprint appears; just give me a hard working satin finish any day. While it is nothing in the scheme of things, the Guerrilla fitted with the safety bar plate was 0.5g lighter than the corresponding open comb. Blade clamping at the outer edge of the cap, round blade posts fitted into blind plate holes and one long lather clearing channel are all features of this Guerrilla.

With efficiency just over Karve CB Level #D and a substantial, but not overpowering amount of positive blade, the 0.84mm plated Ti Guerrilla performed exactly as I was expecting. This razor could not be described as overly smooth, but it was certainly comfortable. There was never any concern for my safety but if your technique is not quite up to scratch, I’d suggest proceeding with extreme caution. Combined with its bead blasted finish, the circular grooves around the grip area provided the alternate Rebel handle with positive grip. Personally, I wouldn’t say the Rebel handle is better than the Original Guerrilla handle, but it is different. My time with the Guerrilla left me with many unanswered about the OC plate I used last week, but I was in awe of the performance of the Guerrilla Ti 0.84mm SB.

Blades Used – Glatz and Rapira

Material – Gr5 Titanium

Weight – 55.4g

Blade Tab - Exposed

Head Width – 41.69mm

Handle Length – 89.98mm

Handle Diameter – 12.83mm

Availability – Guerrilla Razors

Final Word – An inspiration

The Wolf SB has always been a delight to use. Top review @Errol

 

[Bladerunner7]

Alpha Spirit SE Bronze (Hong Kong)



Fancy Alpha Shaving putting out a bronze version of their Spirit SE and me not buying one. Fat chance of that when I’m a sucker for bronze razors and I really appreciated my time with their stainless steel Spirit SE. Other than being machined from bronze, the Spirit looks identical to the Stainless Steel version. There is no machined down handle post to slip through the elongated hole in the AC blade; the handle post is positioned above the blade but because every part of the razor has been machined to very fine tolerances, the razor manages to look small; the thin handle with its long neck also plays a large part in making the razor appear small. Alpha have also drilled out the end of the handle to effectively reduce its weight further; they done this with the stainless steel variant so nothing new there.

First shave, ‘What the?’ Nothing! it was just like there was no blade in the razor. Strip the razor down, the Feather Professional is in correctly, reassemble and everything looks correct. Still nothing. Race out and grab another blade from the first canister I find; it just happens to be The Speed Master’s least favoured blade, the Feather ProGuard. At least it worked. That’s something that’s not happened to me before, that’s life so get on with it. I refrained from making any judgement on the Spirit SE Bronze at this time. Subsequent shaves and I’m back to normal and can start making judgement; just what I was expecting, Karve CB Level #D efficiency and a pleasant amount of positive blade. Everything about this razor impresses, it is light weight, comfortable and silky smooth. Where the bronze version outshines the stainless steel version is in the looks department especially before the inevitable tarnish commences, that golden sparkle is mesmerizing. I applied Renaissance Wax so that will slow down the onslaught of tarnish and I did remember to apply another cote of wax before it was stored away. It is certainly one of the better razors available on the market today.

Blades Used – Feather Professional and Feather ProGuard

Material – Bronze C954

Weight – 57.5g

Blade Tab – Covered

Head Width – 51.05mm

Handle Length – 95.03mm effective

Handle Diameter – 10.95mm

Availability – Alpha Shaving

Final Word – Top shelf

Gorgeous Offering from Steve but Bronze just needs too much maintenance down the road. Loved the review.

 

[Bladerunner7]

Alpha Spirit SE Titanium (Hong Kong)



Lately I’m becoming a little concerned that the heads on many quality titanium razors have had all the excess material removed and have become very light, they require more weight or a lighter handle to balance the razor. I wasn’t going to review this razor initially but after thinking about it for a while, this razor is a prime candidate that could well fall into the category of the head being too light. Somehow, I have a feeling that with its long, slim and elegant handle, the Spirit SE Titanium may just be OK, I’m about to put it to the test. Everything that’s been written about other versions of the Alpha Spirit SE relates to their Titanium version; it really is an impressive looking razor. As for the weight of the razor, it is extremely light, requiring almost three complete razors to exceed the ‘magical’ 100g mark. Finished in what I suspect to be a very high quality machine finish, this razor really has a presence; while it is small in stature it visibly stands out.

As expected, there was no cause for concern as to the balance of the razor, the pencil thin handle with its drilled out end and pared down neck ensured that the balance was spot on. Karve CB Level #D efficiency and the same pleasurable amount of positive blades as its stable mates ensured a smooth and comfortable shave. Alpha’s Sprint SE Ti is a pleasure to use, and I’d go so far as to say it my choice of razors in the Sprint range, I’m pleased I didn’t bypass it now.

Blades Used – Schick P-30 and Feather Professional

Material – Titanium

Weight – 34.3g

Blade Tab – Covered

Head Width – 51.00mm

Handle Length – 94.57mm

Handle Diameter – 11.00mm

Availability – Alpha Shaving

Final Word – Stellar performance

@Errol , definitely my choice and am keeping a lookout for one. Missed a deal on the bay recently. Superb review.

 

[Bladerunner7]

Blackland Sabre II Ti - #3 (USA)



Blackland’s email advising that their Sabre II was to be discontinued took me by surprise. The November Black Friday sales were still a way off and I’d been holding out to get one at a discounted price, caught out by my own frugality. By that time there would be none available, only one thing to do, lay down my hard earned and get one before they disappeared. Stainless steel? Titanium? both versions were available but being a titanium devotee, the selection of material was straight forward. I’ve been caught out previously by the less than desirable machined finishes on Blackland products, so the polished version was selected. What a stunning polished finish Blackland has presented on the Sabre II, every side of each piece has been meticulously done. Well, that is not quite true; the forward grip on the handle retains a machined finish, providing both contrast and positive grip. Highlighting the whole Sabre II package is that efficiency can be swapped by flipping over a removable safety bar section at the leading edge of the plate. Two bar sections are provided, thus giving the purchaser four different efficiency levels to choose from. For this review I have selected the #3 bar section, so I’ll see how that goes before trying to determine my next level to try or even if I need another selection. Taking its que from the original Sabre, the sides of the handle post have been machined off to permit it to protrude through the hole in the centre of the GEM blade to give the Sabre II a small head profile. With the desired bar section and blade fitted, the head is clamped down in a flat package.

My selection of the #3 bar section was based on personal preference for efficiency just above mid-range, the #3 bar section fitted that criteria in theory. However, it did not take long to discover that I had chosen too high an efficiency level with the #3 bar section; efficiency was slightly on the high side Karve CB level #D which was not a problem in itself, but the abundance of positive blade feel was less than welcome. Naturally sharp GEM blades do a fantastic job of mowing down stubble but the Sabre II with its #3 bar section fitted was leaving behind patches of weepers. Less downward pressure reduced the number of weepers but that required concentration all the way, not my idea of a comfortable shave. Of course, the shave was close, but I have had many better shaves, time to go down a notch and give the #2 bar section a whirl; with the Sabre II already out of its packaging - next week.

Blades Used – Personna

Material – Titanium

Weight – 45.5g

Blade Tab – Covered

Head Width – 39.85mm

Handle Length – 88.08mm

Handle Diameter – 12.48mm

Availability – Out of Production (Temporarily)

Final Word – Bloody horrible

@Errol , you sure aren't a Sabre wielding warrior. @Gargravarr won't be pleased.

 

[Bladerunner7]

Blackland Sabre II Ti - #1 (USA)



Having identified last week that the Blackland Sabre II Ti with the #3 bar section fitted was not at all to my liking, this time around I have fitted the #2 bar section to check its ability to deliver a comfortable shave. As assumed, both the efficiency and positive blade feel were reduced; efficiency dropped to fractionally below Karve CB level #D but there remained a substantial amount of blade feel, more that I was comfortable with. After only one shave with the #2 bar section installed, it was an easy decision to flip the safety bar to use the #1 side in the search of a half decent shave from the Sabre II Ti. It’s a long time since I’ve resorted to the mildest option available in any razor with adjustability to obtain its optimal shave. This resulted in a much better shave, but it was a long way from great, between Karve CB Level #C and #D efficiency but with a usable amount of positive blade feel, a long way from smooth, but the shave was certainly close.

With positive blade feel approaching a usable level on the #1 setting, an observation of the Sabre II Ti was the quality of the handle design and the positive grip provided; last week I was in survival mode and did not appreciate the handle. I found little to wave the flag about when I reviewed the original Sabre and I have even less love for the revised Sabre II. Sure it might look pretty, but with Blackland resorting to gimmicks in the form of the Sabre II fiddly bar section adjustability, the whole show has backfired, and Blackland has delivered a dud razor. I’m thinking that other users have achieved similar results to mine and that is why the Sabre II is no longer available. Good riddance.

Blades Used – Personna

Material – Titanium

Weight – 45.5g

Blade Tab – Covered

Head Width – 39.85mm

Handle Length – 88.08mm

Handle Diameter – 12.48mm

Availability – Out of Production

Final Word – Still horrible

@Errol , If the Ti didn't charm you then its time to bid the Sabre a Goodbye my friend.

 

[Bladerunner7]

Schick - Qantas Emergency Razor



Temperatures during August in Nhulunbuy usually range around 23 to 31C and as I was flying to Melbourne where I knew that it would be bloody freezing for this thin blooded northerner, I packed my bag with a jacket in an easily accessible pocket so that as soon as I picked my bag up, I could slip it on before I ventured outside the airport terminal. ‘Sorry sir, your bag has been directed to Sydney, we’ll get it to you in the morning’. I’ve got the cloths I’m standing in, its bloody cold and I was so looking forward to a shave. ‘Here sir, take this. This emergency pack has your essential personal items and a pair of pyjamas’. ‘Thank you’, it wasn’t that poor bugger’s fault, he was doing all he could.

I’m looking and feeling feral and scratch as I might, the itch is driving me up the wall; bugger it, I’ll try that petite little Qantas special in the pack and go back to the days when similar examples were my razors of choice. There’s also a tube of Schick Shaving Cream in the pack; I’ve got nothing else so it’s back to the bad old days on the shave cream front too for this little boy. Try as I might, I couldn’t get a lather but there was lubricant on my face so no turning back now. After I worked out how to get the blade protector off, the little Schick done a commendable job as it clawed its way through the first pass. Second pass, and the tube of Shaving Cream had been squeezed dry. This really is getting back to the days when shaving every day was a requirement of the job and being too broke to afford shave cream, I’d dry shave. At least this time there was some shaving cream residue from the first pass, and I could use water. To be fair the Qantas Emergency Razor didn’t do a bad job, it was smooth with around Karve CB Level #C efficiency and there was enough positive blade to satisfactorily complete the shave and make me feel like someone owned me again. Even though it was forced onto me, it was good to experience again what was the normal not all that long ago. Truth is, I’m not about to give away my collection of razors to go back to the disposable razor, that’s for sure.

Qantas, as good as their word, got my bag to me around mid-morning the next day, but not before I had rushed out to buy myself another jumper, gee I’ll need that back home. One item in the pack that really performed well was the tooth brush. If I knew what brand it was or where to get them from, I would continue using them. That’s an experience I don’t want to repeat again in a hurry, but I lived to tell the tale.

Blades Used – Internal

Material – Genuine Landfill Plastic

Blade Tab – Covered

Availability – When Qantas misdirect your luggage

Final Word – Thanks for nothing Qantas

@Errol , Taking this one as your day off mate. Was a funny read, enjoyed it.

 

[Bladerunner7]

Kampfe KaiTian Ultra Light (China).



Your head would never stop spinning if you tried to keep up with every new razor release from China, the online retailers are brimming full of them. I was checking to see if one of the more reliable suppliers on AliExpress had any new product releases when I stumbled onto this, the Kampfe KaiTian Ultra Light razor. Borrowing a recognised manufacturers design has never bothered any Chinese company, but why stop at pirating their design, might as well steal a name from the past as well, let’s call it a Kampfe. At least this Kampfe is a double edged design, but they appear to be materialising in plague proportions so it is inevitable that a single edged razor will eventuate; ah shit, they already have.

Being titanium was only part of what drew me to the KaiTian Ultra Light, its head design looked very familiar and appeared that it might work, after all, the head design has Blutt written all over it. There was no information available on performance, but the blade gaps on offer were familiar so I selected the 1.2mm option over the alternate 0.9mm, time will tell. That long neck on the handle is reminiscent (reminiscent – bull shit, it is a dead set copy) of the one fitted to Blackland’s Vector SE razor, it will be interesting to see if a thin, long necked handle can successfully be utilized on a double edge razor, I’d not seen that done before. Being a copy of the Swiss designed Blutt, the head has all the usual Blutt features; wide flats positioned at the outer extremities of the cap for blade clamping, elongated blade posts on the cap mating to blind holes in the plate all in an ultra-thin profile. Where Kampfe have really excelled is in the polishing department, beautiful deep lustre with not a sign of a machine mark, all complimented by the underside of the cap and the top of the plate being bead blasted.

It was half way through the first pass before it dawned on me that I was using a pencil thin handle that I’d previously only used on the machine downed AC bladed single edge razors, no problem, it was working a treat. Whoever done the CAD drawings for the Kampfe could not read a vernier or mixed the measurements up during the transcription; efficiency was around Karve CB Level #C and the blade feel was only just on the positive side of neutral, but by hell it was smooth. On reflection, I’m pleased I purchased the 1.20mm gap, otherwise the KaiTian would have been way too mild for me. This is not the titanium Blutt that so many of us were calling for, but it will suit those who appreciate a beautifully made and polished titanium razor delivering a smooth shave with mid-range efficiency and only a little positive blade; if this is you, go for it, but I was left wanting.

Blades Used – Gillette Rapira and Willy’s

Material – Titanium

Weight – 52.7g

Blade Tab - Covered

Head Width – 43.35mm

Handle Length – 90.27mm

Handle Diameter – 10.99mm

Availability – AliExpress

Final Word – Everything borrowed

I have the Kampfe Elite and actually love the razor to bits. It delivers a terrific shave and is on par with some of the best Ti razors in terms of smoothness and efficiency for me. I'm lucky to have taken a punt on it. Having said that, some of the others from the same company are a hit and miss. Nice review @Errol

I'm lucky to have taken a punt on it.

 

[Bladerunner7]

Reggie’s Razor Jupiter Brass (England)



An almost 100mm long handle is a bit of an oddity these days, most razors are supplied with handles in the 85/ 90mm range. There are many who prefer the longer handle so it’s pleasing to see Reggie’s Razor catering for that demand. If, however they supplied the handle at 85mm it would have easily reduced the weight of the razor to under 100g, and with a hole in the end of the handle we could have been elated at the weight of the supplied razor, but we weren’t. Two rails on the top of the plate are utilized for blade clamping. These align with the inner face of the extra wide blade clamping surfaces of the cap. One wide lather clearing groove on each side of the plate disperse the residual waste and with no relief at the back of the plate, it looks quite chunky. A quality polished finish completes the build.

What a joy to use, the solid feel of the Jupiter counteracted what is a razor that is a bit on the chubby side. I was in awe of how comfortable and steady the razor felt in my hand, it just went about its business without any fuss. Even with the long handle, maneuverability was never an issue providing a quick and pleasant shaving experience. With efficiency on the high side of Karve CB Level #C and a well thought out amount of positive blade, the shave was ever so smooth and comfortable. This is another one of those razors that I could have continued using. Such pleasing results got me thinking that a stainless steel variant would make a special addition to the collection. I know I threatened to purchase a Reggie’s Saturn (stainless steel) previously but now I’ve got to have one; I’ve ordered it and it’s in the mail.

Blades Used – Gillette Minora and Royal II

Material – CZ121 Brass

Weight – 124.6g

Blade Tab - Covered

Head Width – 43.01mm

Handle Length – 99.80mm

Handle Diameter – 11.94mm

Availability – Reggie’s Razors

Final Word – Give me more

Superb review @Errol . It was your feedback on Reggie's products and an earlier review of the Titan that got me to pick up the Stainless Steel Saturn and what an amazing shaver it is. Awaiting your review of it.