Top 5 Best Safety Razor Reviews

Best Safety Razor Review – Top 5 Sharpest List for January, 2024 – Explored and Discussed

You don’t see many people driving around in a horse and buggy anymore, because technological advances usually render old-fashioned contraptions obsolete.

Once Henry Ford and his compatriots led the way into the world of 20th-century transportation, people wanted cars, not horse-drawn carriages.

The Safety Razor – A Short History & Introduction

The safety razor was first patented in 1880 and quickly became the tool that all men (at least, those who weren’t brave enough to stick with a straight razor) shaved with. Some 50 years later, the electric razor was introduced to great fanfare and remains extremely popular.

Yet safety razors are still very much with us, as the shaving implement of choice for hundreds of millions of men.

Some choose safety razors for their convenience (with no cords or batteries, they can be taken and used anywhere) or their price (many lesser models are inexpensive and use replaceable blades which cost well under a dollar). But the number-one attraction for most men is the superior, close, safe shave that the best safety razors can deliver.

Factors to Consider When Buying The Best Safety Razor For You

It’s important to note that in our reviews of the top 5 best safety razors Groom+Style won’t be looking at the multi-blade cartridge models which are cheap, quick and easy to use – but in most cases, don’t come close to delivering the same quality of shave and are more likely to cause razor burn and irritation, nicks, cuts, and ingrown hairs.

We’re also not focusing on very inexpensive safety razors which may be very good, but usually aren’t great. Our top 5 are the best of the best.

Adjustable Safety Razor or Not?

There are two schools of thought about whether the head of a safety razor should be adjustable. Some users feel that it’s crucial to find the perfect gap between the blade and the safety bar, while others find it a distraction and unnecessary and prefer to purchase a razor that is built “properly” to begin with.

Groom+Style happen to like adjustable razors because they let you decide how aggressive a shave you want, but most models aren’t adjustable and we didn’t consider that a vital factor in our rankings. Similarly, you can find comb-shaped (either open or closed), slanted or straight safety bars; each provides a different level of sharpness to a shave (mild, medium or aggressive) and that’s again a matter of personal preference.

For those reasons, we’ll detail the type of shave you get from each model in our top 5 best safety razor reviews without passing judgment. Groom+Style will focus more on their quality and comfort in determining which razor ranks where.

If you are looking for safety razors on a budget, then head straight to the budget section at the bottom.

1. Seki Edge Feather AS-D2 Double Edge Safety Razor – All Stainless Steel

Our first three selections are what many people would consider very expensive for a manual razor, and the Japanese-made Seki Edge Feather is unquestionably pricey. But it’s a wonderful double-edge safety razor, particularly suited to those taking the plunge for the first time because of its narrow cutting angle and the small gap between blade and safety bar. That leads to a mild shave – and very little chance of nicks and cuts.

Those more experienced with safety razors might find that the Seki AS-D2 isn’t aggressive enough for them, and that’s a fair criticism. But as we said at the start, aggressiveness is mostly a matter of personal preference which can largely be overcome by changing the angle at which you shave – and doesn’t detract from the wonderful build of this model.

The Edge Feather is designed to be used at a 45° degree angle rather than the more common 30° angle for most safety razors, so shifting your hand position isn’t just an academic point.

The key to this three-piece razor is the smaller Feather blades that Seki is well-known for. They are perhaps the sharpest blades you can purchase, built to be extremely efficient and effective. There’s no reason to worry about using blades that are so sharp, though, because the precision construction of the AS-D2, including the narrow gap, is meant to ensure that the end product is an extremely gentle shave.

The Edge Feather’s head and handle are made completely of stainless steel which we believe is perfectly balanced and feels just right in the hand; it’s not heavy, but it’s not so light that you can get careless with it, either. The blades fit in perfectly without any movement once they’re seated, and removing them is a piece of cake. The handle length is just under four inches, which most people will find comfortable.

2. Merkur Progress Adjustable Safety Razor

Merkur is a reliable and reputable name in the world of shaving equipment, which is why you’ll see several of the company’s safety razors in our Groom+Style rankings and in our previous years’ listings.

All Merkur razors are precision-engineered in Germany from Solingen steel, to exacting specifications. What the review team for art of shaving really likes about the Progress, though, is its innovative adjustable head (similar to the head on the Merkur Futur, reviewed later). This design lets you decide how much of the blade will extend from the head’s guard, giving you ultimate control over your shave. The most aggressive #5 setting delivers an extremely close shave for a morning beard or tough skin; the least-aggressive of the five settings is just right for sensitive skin, shaving areas like the neck or doing slight touch-ups before a night out. And the wide variety of choices allows users to fully customize the aggressiveness of the shave to their face, even in the middle of the process. Settings are controlled with a knob at the bottom of the handle.

The Progress is available in two models. The Model 500 has a standard handle while the Model 510 is heavier and has a handle that’s about an inch longer, suitable for users with larger hands. (It’s also slightly more expensive). We prefer this razor over the Merkur Futur because it’s easier to use; the head is smaller and more manoeuvrable, it feels lighter in the hand, and the chrome-finished handle on the Progress is ribbed rather than smooth. However, each performs extremely well and they’re similarly priced.

3. Above The Tie Atlas S2 Open Comb Slant Bar Safety Razor

This is the most expensive option on our list of the top 5 best safety razors, and those who are experienced manual shavers who want the ultimate control over their razor will love it. The S2, as its name suggests, is an open comb model; that means the safety bar is in the shape of a comb, exposing more of the blade to the skin for a moderately aggressive shave.

The bar is slanted, and that also adds to the sharpness and closeness – but for those used to shaving with open comb models, using the Atlas S2 will be an extremely comfortable experience thanks to the .61mm blade gap.

Above the Tie handcrafts each of these razors in America from solid 303 stainless steel, machined to tight tolerances for what Groom+Style think is pretty close to the ultimate shave. The one negative we found was the handle is a little short for our liking at three inches; it’s balanced perfectly with the head and the barber pole design provides a terrific grip, but those with larger hands who are accustomed to larger handles may find themselves struggling a bit to adjust.

4. Muhle R41 Open Comb Double Edge Safety Razor

We’ve already mentioned Muhle, and the German company is one of the most highly-regarded manufacturers of shaving equipment in the world. They’ve used that expertise to create the reasonably-priced three-piece R41, often called the most aggressive safety razor on the market and often referred to as “the beast.” (Interestingly enough, the R41 was redesigned with a wider top cap a few years ago to tone the shave down a bit, since it used to be even more aggressive.)

This is the least expensive razor on our list so far, but it is still precision-crafted, ergonomically-designed and features a beautiful engraved chrome-plated finish.

This Muhle is an open-comb model with a scalloped safety bar, so while it may sound a bit threatening from our description, those with experience handling safety razors shouldn’t be put off. You’ll get a very close, satisfying shave but you won’t be cutting your face to ribbons, or even nicking it up – as long as you’re not a novice attacking your shave like you’re wielding an electric razor. For most beards, one or two passes will do the job completely.

This is a lightweight razor with a medium-length handle (3.7 inches), and it feels perfectly as balanced as you’d expect from Muhle; in the right hands, it delivers a shave that, quite frankly, can compete favorably with a straight razor. There are two other versions of the R41 with longer handles that you might want to try if you have large hands, the Grande with a 3.8-inch handle, and the two-piece Twist with a 4.2-inch handle that extends a bit from the bottom for an even better grip.

5. Merkur Futur 70 Adjustable Safety Razor

We’ve already mentioned the Merkur Futur and its similarity to the previously-reviewed Merkur Progress. While the Groom+Style review team prefers the Progress, this two-piece safety razor with an adjustable head is a great choice for those who want a larger, heavier shaver.

Just turn the blade exposure dial, and the gap between the blade and the safety bar is changed so you can choose exactly how aggressive your shave will be. That’s an unusual feature but is particularly useful if you’re a newbie getting used to safety razors, if you have skin which breaks out at times, or if you’re the type of guy who likes to regularly switch between corporate and lumberjack looks.

Merkur is another well-respected razor manufacturer and the company’s typical design and manufacturing skills went into creating the Futur (the “70” simply refers to the razor’s finish). It’s well-balanced and feels good in the hand, with a moderate-length handle (which quite honestly, can get a bit slippery). There is an oversized head so the razor is a little heavier than the others on our list, and the process of changing the blade is tricky because a clip holds the blade, rather than the screw used on most Merkur models.

Muhle Sophist Double Edge Safety Razor

High-Grade Resin, Black: Muhle is a leading producer of some of the finest shaving equipment. Since its inception in the year 1945, the Muller family was keen on maintaining innovation without compromising on the traditional craftsmanship. This product is a perfect combination of expert craftsmanship, aesthetically pleasing design and avant-garde technology to assure a smooth and satisfactory shaving experience. The Muhle Sophist double edge safety razor incorporates a unique design that features a conventional form with a beautifully crafted handle to fit perfectly into your hand. This beautifully engineered luxury safety razor from Muhle is equipped with a polished head and an ergonomic handle that features a black superior grade scratch resistant resin. It is also much longer and heavier than most safety razors with a chrome knob at the bottom to balance the razor perfectly. This product will definitely remind you that shaving was once upon a time considered as an art and not just an everyday morning chore.

Ikon B1 Open Comb OSS Safety Razor

Ikon safety razors are precision-engineered shaving implements. With tremendous attention to detail, the Ikon safety razors are beautifully machined and exquisitely crafted for lifetime use. This safety razor is a unique innovation as it combines an open comb and safety bar in one razor. The dual action feature allows you to have a truly customized shaving experience. No wonder it is touted as one of the best safety shavers which is a must-have for the most discriminating user.  Most of all it provides exceptional value for money. The dual head versatility and innovative design is an added advantage as it promises a comfortable shaving experience.

Jack Black Double Edge Safety Razor

Unfortunately, this product does not seem to be in production anymore.

No, not that Jack Black. This is a German-engineered, handcrafted safety razor that was made in cooperation with the revered manufacturer Muhle (more about them later), and it’s a sleek and modern shaver that provides a relatively non-aggressive shave.

The Jack Black isn’t quite as expensive as the Seki, but you wouldn’t know it when you handle it. This model has the look and feel of luxury, with a chrome-plated head and a heavy, thick cobalt-blue handle that is longer than average and perfect for those with bigger hands. The one drawback is that the smooth handle can get a bit slippery if you get gel or even water on it. Even so, the balance of this safety razor is nearly perfect when you use it.

And when you use it, you’ll get a very close shave. Since it’s manufactured to be mild rather than aggressive with a narrow gap between blade and safety bar, there’s very little worry about cuts or razor burn. But unlike cheaper non-aggressive models that require you to go over and over an area, one or two passes with this razor and you’re done unless you really let your beard grow for a while between shaves. The Jack Black is designed to be used at the traditional 30° shaving angle.

Top 5 Best Budget Safety Razors

When it comes to shaving, you always want to get the best deal for your money. The trouble is that most razors have a price tag that goes far beyond what most of us consider conservative. A man can easily spend over a hundred dollars or more just on purchasing a razor. Unfortunately, razors are necessary for those guys who are interested in continuing to shave their faces. Have you ever tried to craft your own razor? That’s because it’s impossible. Good luck harnessing that technology to save a couple bucks.

What many people don’t know about safety razors is that they are actually a great way to shave and can save you a bundle because they are customarily much more affordable, over the long run than disposable razors. They’re great for travel and actually less wasteful and better for the environment. Not only that, they are more difficult to dull down (meaning you’ll have them for longer and have to deal with replacement hassles a lot less, saving you money), and they’re going to give you a closer shave than you ever imagined. These double-edged razors are the perfect way to shave.

The Merkur 180 Long Handled Safety Razor

Silver colored and seductive, the Merkur 180 Long Handled Safety Razor looks like something pulled from the past and the future at the same time. Merkur makes some great razors, and this 180 long handled model is a huge stand out among many top quality razors produced by the company. It’s not very expensive, so it will not break the bank, but it looks expensive– always a plus, right? This is a great razor for guys who prefer a long-handled razor or have larger hands (which is a larger percentage of the male population than you might think, and a specialty niche that Merkur is catering to perfectly). For all of its heavy metallic appearance, this is a razor that is relatively light, great if you’re used to using those cheap plastic disposables. The Merkur 180 Long Handled Safety Razor has a chrome finish that is shiny but affordable, a great grip, and is well worth the money. Don’t take our word for it– get your hands on a sample pack and truly discover what sets the Merkur 180 apart.

The Edwin Jagger DE89 Safety Razor

This is a shiny little number that sounds like it was patented by Mick Jagger’s cousin (which it wasn’t). What it is, however, is a razor that will get your face as soft and clean shaven as a baby’s bottom. It’s designed like a professional razor in that it leaves all the others behind in a class all their own while soaring triumphantly above. Okay, we’re getting a little enthusiastic. But that’s just because this razor just gets the job done so well– it’s hard not to get carried away about it while waxing sentimental. So what makes the Edwin Jagger so great? Well, it’s incredibly easy to use successfully – it will shave easily but will not make you pay for any missteps when it comes to strokes. It’s also got a great balance due to the razor being weighted at both ends. This means that you are less likely to have an accident and more likely to get a great shave. The model the Groom+Style team reviewed had a smooth handle so we had to have dry hands to use it.  One of our readers (see comment section below) confirmed the shaver comes with a variety of different handles, so please choose a grippy handle if you are likely to utilize the shaver in the shower. Overall this is one of the best safety razors in its class. If you want to know the difference between Edwin Jagger and Merkur, you can check out the review of Edwin Jagger vs Merkur.

Bluebeards Revenge Scimitar Safety Razor

Ar, matey! One of the best safety razors in the land, what more could a pirate want? This razor comes complete with a skull and crossbones engraved onto it. In terms of design and just overall coolness, this razor actually ranks surprisingly high for a topic that is more often than not favored by five-year-olds. This Bluebeards Revenge Scimitar safety razor basically just looks awesome. The real treasure, however, is in the alignment of this razor that gives the user an extremely close shave. The blades on the Scimitar has a blade that will not slip or cut easily at all. While you need a level of experience in safety razors to use the Scimitar razor to its full effect, this razor is steady and reliable and will give you one of the closest and best quality shaves of your life. Don’t be thrown off by the pirate theme– the Revenge razor will make you look dead handsome.

Parker 66R (new version) & Parker 99R Safety Razors

These razors are approximately 3.4 ounces in weight and feature a four inch long handle. The heaviness and girth of the Parker 99R & 66R must be what gives them such excellent maneuverability and responsiveness. They feature a butterfly opening head, which you can twist in order to access the blade. This is so easy to do that you can do it with one hand! They are both sleek and well put together safety razors which require no extra parts, and that provide excellent control for a great shave every time.

The Parker 66R is the slightly newer version and effectively features a different handle design to the Parker 99R – the model you choose will come done to personal preference.

Like the Scimitar, these razors are high-quality brass that’s covered in chrome with textured handles that allows for shaving in the shower without the threat of imminent throat-opening. Give the razor a wipe down after you use it because while these are some of the best safety razors available, like all quality products, they do require some care. Put it in a carrying case and treat her well.

Top 5 Best Safety Razor Review Conclusion

Whether you shave daily or just when you feel like, a good razor is a must. If you are looking for a clean, close, consistently smooth nick-free shave, then you will be very satisfied if you invest in any one of the safety razors discussed above. There is no doubt that old-fashioned safety razors are making a significant comeback! There is also another option, like Rockwell 6s and Supply Razor that you can try with advantages that you can benefit from.

Another alternative you might want to consider, as a gift or for yourself, is a straight razor – they are certainly worth investigating!