I bought the Merkur 34C classic heavy yesterday and had my 1st shave this morning (1st safety razor as well btw). Not at all what I expected. I thought you would have to angle it to get the closest shave. Like maybe angle too much and cut yourself or too little and waste your time. The reality is there is only one cutting angle. You either do.. or don't... and no risk of cutting the skin. I've only had one shave, and reasonably impressed with the results. Takes me about the same time (even as my 1st go) compared to a disposable or a cartridge, because you don't spend half the time cleaning out blockages of hair. So it probably will save me time in the long run as i get more confident and quicker with it. The money saved is a nice bonus too :D I can see why people call it a good starter razor, I would understand the need for a more confident shaver to get a more aggressive cutter. Cant wait for my next shave ^^ Grow goddammit grow! lol The chore is now fun
Damn. When I just read the first lines, I just thought you'd say it not good at all before I went and read the rest of your comment. And I was like, damn he scared the hell out of me... :/
I've had mine for 20 years. I bought it my senior year of high school. I have a heavy beard, and I literally couldn't afford to stay clean shaven using a Gilette Ripoff 10,000 Quatro. I did some simple math and realized how quickly it would pay back its higher initial cost. I love my razor. Easily one of the best purchases I've ever made. Maybe THE best. In the past twenty years, I've saved thousands and thousands of dollars. Im sure I'll still have it in another 20 years.
I bought a DE89, which I still love, as a first DE razor because of the longer handle which I thought would make the transition from cartridge easier. But I decided to get a 34C recently to mix it up and wow! I really like the shave. I am using Astra Greens in it and I get an amazing shave every time. My new daily driver.
I just unboxed my new Merkur 34C, which I bought on Amazon. I also bought some Crystal double edge super platinum blades, AKA "Israel persona " blades and loaded one into the razor. I love the extra weight and the great "grip" the knurling of the handle gave me. It gave a GREAT shave with no effort on my part. My 1906 classic needed some pressure to get the job done and slipped in my hand sometimes. This never happened with the 34C. I also found it's two -piece design easier to load with a blade. I would like to recommend the Crystal blades to you and other viewers. They are a great value and gave a smooth and very close shave. I bought 120 in bulk from amazon for less then $20.00 before shipping. Thank you for the fine videos and I hope this helps other who are new to wet shaving.
I just got my first slant today and after taking it apart, I couldn't put it back together until I saw this video! Thanks Nick for this video! The Merkur is one of my favorite razors!
This is a great razor! I always heard about the Merkur 34C so I decided to buy one,and I'm glad I did! I also use an Edwin Jagger DE89L. Both do a great job but I like the Merkur the best.
Hey Guys I bought the "34C" safety razor about a year ago and I love it. I'm trying different blades to see what works for me. No more disposable me (only for travel). Side note also love my Omega badger brush (from Italy) and Taylor of Old Bond St from London (sandal wood shaving cream). Try it guys!
Hey Nick, First of all I would like to thank you for your videos. They have inspired me to convert to wet shaving. I am sort of a traditionalist in some/most aspects of my life. I woodwork only using hand tools and some I own are over 100 years old as they perform the best. I actually stumbled into a store in Calgary AB which is a purist store for men who like to be men.....Straight razors/Swedish Axes hatchets/DE razors...... I was blown away that this form of shaving is making a come back and because of that I am overwhelmed of the selections for pretty much all products associated with wet shaving. My research into wet shaving began.... Through all my research (a lot) I believe wet shaving DE first and then move into Straight Razor would be the best approach. However I do appreciate and need to do both. I am conflicted with which safety razor to buy first, I do like the Merkur 34C and 1904 open comb. Based on your experience which one would you recommend as the go to daily shaver? I am in the Royal Canadian Navy and will be shaving daily onboard/ at home. Also there are times such as holidays or weekends where I will not shave for days leaving me with a medium growth. I guess I am trying to find that perfect compromise. I just wanted to add that I too use Nivea products and feel the same as you about their performance. Great products at an unbelievable price. In the future would you be able to review products such as Klar Siefen (even though they are outside your price range for soaps), Edwin Jaggar soaps and please do a video on why just plain old bowls and mugs work just as great as some really expensive shaving scuttles or bowls..., Joel
Just used mine today for the 1st time. The stock blade is a mild blade, didn't cut myself, but it left me wanting a sharper blade already lol. Still it was better than my mach 3. Never had a shave so close.
Excellent video. I own that exact model and absolutely love shaving with it!! disposable razors are horrible. I’ll never go back to any brand disposables.
Super little razor for not too much bucks great design. Could this be worlds best ? I can't say I only own this model but lookin at reviews it's thumbs up. I'm very pleased indeed it's so well made. In this day and age nice to own something decent and well made.
These videos are great, they really show the quality and workmanship of the razor for people considering purchase. I went with a DE89 and am very happy with it!
Just bought my 34c on eBay for $29.99 delivered. At that price, I couldn't resist adding it to my shaving arsenal. This after trying out the Merkur 20C and 30C...beautiful razors but I just couldn't get along with the "barber pole" knurling on those. My daily razor is now the Parker 26C.
Nick, really digging the videos! Yours are more informative than most as far as aggressiveness and we both share the sensitive skin problems. I am a business guy, and I got sick of going to meetings with razor burn. I tried the Micro Touch One, and actually had really good luck with it. The Dorco blades seemed not ultra sharp but caused no irritation. I was wondering what you would suggest for maybe a step up to a bit more aggressive razor. Or do you think maybe sticking with the same razor and changing to a sharper blade such as a feather would be better for me?
I just ordered a Merkur 34C from Amazon for $36.99. I have a 1906 classic now. The 1906 gives a great shave, but after watching your videos, I wanted a Merkur with some extra weight and the handle of the 34 C would seem to have non -slip qualities the 1906 lacks. I will let you know how the razor works for me when it arrives. I wanted to thank you for the fine videos, they helped with my purchase decision.
love this one, i've been using it for 5 years now, previously was using the long handled version which was basically the same just with a longer handle and 3 piece.
My first DE razor coming from cartridge. The 34C has too short of a handle in my opinion. Bought a Muhle R89 Twist a week later which I've been using ever since and love.
@@greg6162 Glad you find it useful. It's the only razor that I constantly nick myself with. I have 5 others from different companies that I've been fine with. Maybe the awkwardness of it's length coupled with my giant hands could be the issue, lol.
Nick, I've been a subscriber and have been observing your videos for a while. I've got a Merkur 20C and a 39C Slant. Each razor has its own personality and giving that I respect your advice, I ordered a 34C HD today. I have a heavy Southern European beard with a grain that runs in every direction on my jaw line and under my neck in particular. Since you've spoken highly about the 34C, I've decided that I'd get one. I've been testing various blades in my two very different razors and I think that the 34C HD may be the "Happy Medium" in razors that I've been searching for. I, as others didn't know that the knob could be removed for cleaning. Thanks for the "Heads Up" on that and thanks for taking the time to inform us of the multitude of products that are on the market. As far as I'm concerned you're the go to guy for good advice and information. Thanks and all of the best.
Your video made me get a 34c as my first DE safety razor. I've been happily shaving with it (my head too!) for over 6 months and I'm never going back to cartridge razors :)
@Raymond Palacios I also shave my head and will be trying it out on the head. Hope it works better than the head blade and I get a nice smooth shave.btw just ordered mine today and it will be my first safety razor
This is also my first safety razor. Easy to use. It is money well spent. I should have gone to safety razors a long time ago and could've save a lot of money wasted on multi-blade disposables. Never going to multi-blade again.
I tried a cheap butterfly type double edge razor and it sucks. The blades never sit evenly in it causing one side to not shave at all. How do the blades sit in the Merkur 34C? Does the blade sit perfectly or does it move around like the POS that I have now. I really need need to get a good one. I hope this is it.
Rick Sievers The blade needs to be adjusted a bit (which is very easy to do, and often doesn't need to be done), but it otherwise fits great and sits sunigly
Hello... If u get a good quality Parker butterfly safety razor u shouldn't have a problem.... I have the murkur hd and it shaves great .., you won't be disappointed the blades sit evenly and is a 2 piece razor which is easier to handle.. Take care
I've bought Timor Solinger TTO 1320 or 1322, I don't remember. POS too. The plastic Wilkinson Classic has the razor better seated than this Timor. When Buying TTO safety razors always keep in mind that they are mostly cold pressed sheet metal with no grounding nor machining done to them. Cheap to manufacture and POS, yup. Unless you trust a particular model (read the reviews!), don't buy. And always buy with an option of a full moneyback return. Examine TTOs before the first shaving carefully. That said I'm going to buy Feather Popular first, then Merkur 34C, if Feather is subpar.
The ad on Amazon for the 34C states that it is stainless steel. I believe that to be a lie. How you had any feedback on this element? With smiles, Dr. Bob
Hey Nick! Love your videos. I was just wandering what is the number of threads on the top plate screw post that do actually screw into the bottom part? Thanks!
Hey Nick, Great video and then some! Have you tried the "Merkur HD 43C Double Edge Razor "Long Handle-Stainless Steel" razor and if so how does it compare with the 34c Thanks for the very helpful videos as I am just about to begin DE shaving once my 43C comes from Amazon! PS: Hope you have a great holiday season!
I have a Parker 99R with a long handle and a Merkur 34C HD. I love both razors it is easy to get the right angle but I prefer a longer handle. Does the Merkur have an equivalent long handle rendition of the 34CHD or is there a longer handle I can buy? I have about 10 razors but these are my go to razors. You are my favorite shave guy on you tube you are very informative in your videos. I have been wet shaving about a year. Take care.
I'm looking for a set - razor, brush, cream, blades. Where's the best place to get one online and not break the bank? Thanks. Great video. I think I want that one.
Hey Nick, great videos and awesome job informing everyone about wet shaving and all the products associated with it. Which brings me to my question: which brand do you recommend the most, Edwin Jagger or Merkur razors. I currently have a Parker 99R and I'm pretty satisfied with it. However, I'm looking for something with a better quality in terms of the styling and the engineering of the razor itself. Also, keep in mind that I'm happy with the weight and length of my Parker razor, so considering all of these preferences what type of razor do you suggest?
Most razors last longer with regular cleaning and maintenance. I remove the blade, clean and dry it and my razor every shave. Done regularly to establish a routine, it tales between 1 or 2 minutes. Commenter up above doesn't understand this.
Haha, thanks for your suggestion. My girlfriend sent a link a few weeks ago for the micro touch one safety razor but i thought it wouldn't be a good razor or it was a scam. After seeing your new video I am considering it. I do grow my hair a bit longer than how you had it in the micro touch one so I am leaning towards the 34c as you say it is more aggressive.... thoughts?
Extremely easy! I have a beginner series out talking about the process of shaving with a safety razor. There is obviously an adjustment period but safety razors are a breeze to use
I agree, these are very easy to shave with. I have a long handle merkur, was actuallly a gift from my mother when I turned 18 (best gift ever seriously it will last my life), but am considering the short handle for when I'm not shaving in the shower. That's how easy they are to use though, I shave with it in the shower.
I am just starting out and bought a 34c HD after hearing you talk about it. I also started out with Feather blades. The first shave was a massacre. My second shave was fine, no cuts, but not perfectly smooth. My third shave however was a complete success, BSS and no cuts. Your techniques got me very far, very fast. Thanks Nick!
WaveCG that's less the razor and more to do with the blades. Try voshkod, personna lab blues, or polsilver. They have a good balance of sharp and smooth. Feather are the sharpest, but not smooth at all. First shave is always kind of brutal.
Persona Lab Blues are on my shopping list. I agree about Feather, sharp but not very smooth. Feather is nice because you don't feel any nicks and the cuts are so small that they rarely bleed, but that's not a great way to learn. My biggest issue is that the hair under my chin grows from chin to ear which makes it difficult to get a BSS. I'm hoping Persona can fix this, because Feather's are too unforgiving for xg under my jawline. Thanks for the Persona recommendation!
This was the perfect starter razor! Really smooth shaves, taught me how to shave with a safety. The weight is great, you want a heavier razor so that it can glide easier with its own weight. Thanks for posting!
I have a knock off one that I got for $20 . I held it in my hand with a real 34 c at my barbers . Feels the same . Looks the same . I'm thinking of getting a real one now . But will it shave better ? I know it will be built better , it's German . .
What's up Nick (or anyone who can answer this for me)? I like the likes of this razor but really want an open comb design. Do you know which Merkur would be closest to this one in design and quality but would have an open comb design? Thanks. Anyone who can help answer this is apprecaited. I will be a brand new DE shaver. I've been a 'rip off' Gillette top end user my whole adult life and am sick of the gouging prices. If you think a newbie shouldn't use an open comb for any reason , let me know and please tell me why also. Thanks a bunch. Keep up the great vids!
I own a Merkur 34C HD but I'm an Edwin Jagger DE89 fan. Paired with a Gillette Silver Blue. A safety razor and blade marriage made in heaven. A DE89 and Feather blade is nice too but not as smooth.
are these safer to use than straight razors? straight razors tend to be very 'exposed' and you have to worry about blade angle. do DE safety razors have a better guard on them kind of like gilette razors?
Nick, please help. I can’t squeeze the tension ring to get my merkur 34C bottom tube back in and locked. I attempted to squeeze it back in, and was unsuccessful. What do you recommend. Many thanks in advance.
Damn fine Safety Razor. I shower put a little hair conditioner on my face for pre shave. Get out the shower, soap up my face with Ivory soap and hot water. Shave up one pass. All done in a couple minutes.
Go with an adjustable razor like the Merkur Progress or futur. You can use the higher more aggressive settings on course facial hair, and less aggressive settings on your neck(which is where more sensitive skin tends to be).
I dont know what is the problem but if I want nice smooth shave from this razor I get irritation. If I apply no pressure at all, after 2-3 passes still worse results then Philips Aquatouch series 5000. I shave after shower, using badger brush and Nivea sensitive shaving cream.. Any suggestions to get better results with 34c without irritation?
Great Razor got 1 recently never even cut myself with it its that good.I dont like mekur blades though but persona derby feather all good in it so far. Id bought a cheaper Parker razor before no use Get the 34c Mekur its terrific
Just got one and first shave today. Cost me $30-odd, maybe just under $40. To me it seems like a toy compared to my dad's 1940s/1950s Gillettes, that flipped open at the top like the doors on a fancy sports car, and could be adjusted for blade angle .... it turns out those are worth a few hundred bucks now. Welp, this thing shaves OK and a lot better than those plastic razors.
I think but I could be wrong modern Gillette safety razors are made in China. That flip open top your father would have used would have been great for ease of use in changing the blade but would require a bit more skill than the razors that are around today. It most certainly is not a toy.
Huy Tran Ok now she retracted what she just said. She actually wanted me to let you know that you need to get a manicure if you are going to post your fingers on youtube....I don't get it either...she's really weird that way...
Bradley Davis parker 98r ultra heavyweight, very good razor, not as precise as the merkur but agreesive as fuck, you have to be careful with that one, i own both the merkur 34c and the parker 98R and for once a daythe merkur is better , but if you shave every 3 or 4 days the parker is the one to get.
+petelebu I gotcha. I usually shave every 2 days. I have a van Der Hagan razor that I bought for like $17. I hear nothing but good things about the 34C. I love butterfly doors though, so easy to open and clean and change blades.
Bradley Davis butterly razors are nice but uualy not as durable as screw ones, the van der hagen is good, but once you grab the parker 98r it will feel like a cheap toy
Not going to buy another Merkur product. My 34C was seriously affected by the 28 °dH water where I live. It took 12 months for the calcium to gnaw off some of the screw in stem.
Yep gotta go careful with that feather. I find the feathers lighten up after few uses. Gonna try as many shaves b4 I chuck blade this time. Boy pretty close shave though. Thank gawd I got some decent balm
i dont like merkur razors, they seem to have bad plating and corrode after a few months of use my Edwin Jagger is a real champ, excellent plating and ive also bought the Rockwell S6 MIM injected stainless steel razor it has a beautifull finish (bead blasted) and can last 10.000 years only costs $99 has 6 settings on the head piece so you can swap out the base plate to make your shave less or more aggressive merkur is a piece of crap tbh, it may shave great but the quality is really like chinese even their gold plated razors are crap, they use some cheap mixed plating not even real gold while Edwin Jagger uses 24k gold plating
the stutter on, "when my hand are covered in uhhh (internal thoughts: can i say cream that sounds wrong, but what about that one time my hand were covered in...ah SHIT.. ADD SHAVING)... uuuuh Shaving cream! XD haha. Any way any razor by this company i have found to be great especially for sensitive skin or anyone who want a close shave. Stop wasting money on other razors seriously.
I bought the Merkur 34C classic heavy yesterday and had my 1st shave this morning (1st safety razor as well btw).
Not at all what I expected. I thought you would have to angle it to get the closest shave. Like maybe angle too much and cut yourself or too little and waste your time. The reality is there is only one cutting angle. You either do.. or don't... and no risk of cutting the skin.
I've only had one shave, and reasonably impressed with the results. Takes me about the same time (even as my 1st go) compared to a disposable or a cartridge, because you don't spend half the time cleaning out blockages of hair. So it probably will save me time in the long run as i get more confident and quicker with it. The money saved is a nice bonus too :D
I can see why people call it a good starter razor, I would understand the need for a more confident shaver to get a more aggressive cutter.
Cant wait for my next shave ^^ Grow goddammit grow! lol The chore is now fun
The more you use it the better your shaves will get.
Damn.
When I just read the first lines, I just thought you'd say it not good at all before I went and read the rest of your comment. And I was like, damn he scared the hell out of me... :/
@@iraqiboyize lol same here I just bought one and thought hes goint to criticize the hell out of it. Phew!
I've had mine for 20 years. I bought it my senior year of high school. I have a heavy beard, and I literally couldn't afford to stay clean shaven using a Gilette Ripoff 10,000 Quatro. I did some simple math and realized how quickly it would pay back its higher initial cost. I love my razor. Easily one of the best purchases I've ever made. Maybe THE best. In the past twenty years, I've saved thousands and thousands of dollars. Im sure I'll still have it in another 20 years.
I bought a DE89, which I still love, as a first DE razor because of the longer handle which I thought would make the transition from cartridge easier. But I decided to get a 34C recently to mix it up and wow! I really like the shave. I am using Astra Greens in it and I get an amazing shave every time. My new daily driver.
Hey, I've had mine for many years but I had no idea you could pull that out! Thanks for revealing that.
Yeah same wtf
I just unboxed my new Merkur 34C, which I bought on Amazon. I also bought some Crystal double edge super platinum blades, AKA "Israel persona " blades and loaded one into the razor. I love the extra weight and the great "grip" the knurling of the handle gave me. It gave a GREAT shave with no effort on my part. My 1906 classic needed some pressure to get the job done and slipped in my hand sometimes. This never happened with the 34C. I also found it's two -piece design easier to load with a blade. I would like to recommend the Crystal blades to you and other viewers. They are a great value and gave a smooth and very close shave. I bought 120 in bulk from amazon for less then $20.00 before shipping. Thank you for the fine videos and I hope this helps other who are new to wet shaving.
I just got my first slant today and after taking it apart, I couldn't put it back together until I saw this video! Thanks Nick for this video! The Merkur is one of my favorite razors!
This is a great razor! I always heard about the Merkur 34C so I decided to buy one,and I'm glad I did! I also use an Edwin Jagger DE89L. Both do a great job but I like the Merkur the best.
Hey Guys I bought the "34C" safety razor about a year ago and I love it. I'm trying different blades to see what works for me.
No more disposable me (only for travel). Side note also love my Omega badger brush (from Italy) and Taylor of Old Bond St from London (sandal wood shaving cream). Try it guys!
Hey Nick,
First of all I would like to thank you for your videos. They have inspired me to convert to wet shaving. I am sort of a traditionalist in some/most aspects of my life. I woodwork only using hand tools and some I own are over 100 years old as they perform the best. I actually stumbled into a store in Calgary AB which is a purist store for men who like to be men.....Straight razors/Swedish Axes hatchets/DE razors...... I was blown away that this form of shaving is making a come back and because of that I am overwhelmed of the selections for pretty much all products associated with wet shaving. My research into wet shaving began....
Through all my research (a lot) I believe wet shaving DE first and then move into Straight Razor would be the best approach. However I do appreciate and need to do both.
I am conflicted with which safety razor to buy first, I do like the Merkur 34C and 1904 open comb. Based on your experience which one would you recommend as the go to daily shaver? I am in the Royal Canadian Navy and will be shaving daily onboard/ at home. Also there are times such as holidays or weekends where I will not shave for days leaving me with a medium growth. I guess I am trying to find that perfect compromise.
I just wanted to add that I too use Nivea products and feel the same as you about their performance. Great products at an unbelievable price.
In the future would you be able to review products such as Klar Siefen (even though they are outside your price range for soaps), Edwin Jaggar soaps and please do a video on why just plain old bowls and mugs work just as great as some really expensive shaving scuttles or bowls...,
Joel
jOelrOd99 Did you move onto the straight razor? Because I’m not sure I would want to try that on a boat .
Just used mine today for the 1st time. The stock blade is a mild blade, didn't cut myself, but it left me wanting a sharper blade already lol. Still it was better than my mach 3. Never had a shave so close.
Love mine, my all time favorite DE razor.
I've used this razor for the last 5 years and never knew the knob pulled out of the bottom.
+Kevin Hill I also never knew that the knob comes out. Good to know.
Interesting- neither did I?
Six years with mine and I never knew that either. You learn something new every day.
The spring loaded bottom cap is a pain in the *ss, too difficult to squeeze that clip to reinsert.
I pulled it out the first time I used, it's been two days and i still can't put it back in
Excellent video. I own that exact model and absolutely love shaving with it!! disposable razors are horrible. I’ll never go back to any brand disposables.
King of razors
Super little razor for not too much bucks great design. Could this be worlds best ? I can't say I only own this model but lookin at reviews it's thumbs up. I'm very pleased indeed it's so well made. In this day and age nice to own something decent and well made.
These videos are great, they really show the quality and workmanship of the razor for people considering purchase. I went with a DE89 and am very happy with it!
Great! That is exactly what I was hoping for! I wanted to make some up close videos so people can know what they are getting before they purchase
Just bought my 34c on eBay for $29.99 delivered. At that price, I couldn't resist adding it to my shaving arsenal. This after trying out the Merkur 20C and 30C...beautiful razors but I just couldn't get along with the "barber pole" knurling on those. My daily razor is now the Parker 26C.
Nick, really digging the videos! Yours are more informative than most as far as aggressiveness and we both share the sensitive skin problems. I am a business guy, and I got sick of going to meetings with razor burn. I tried the Micro Touch One, and actually had really good luck with it. The Dorco blades seemed not ultra sharp but caused no irritation. I was wondering what you would suggest for maybe a step up to a bit more aggressive razor. Or do you think maybe sticking with the same razor and changing to a sharper blade such as a feather would be better for me?
Just got mine in the mail today. I'll be doing a shave video with it tomorrow. Awesome review!
I just ordered a Merkur 34C from Amazon for $36.99. I have a 1906 classic now. The 1906 gives a great shave, but after watching your videos, I wanted a Merkur with some extra weight and the handle of the 34 C would seem to have non -slip qualities the 1906 lacks. I will let you know how the razor works for me when it arrives. I wanted to thank you for the fine videos, they helped with my purchase decision.
Great man! I love the 1904/1906, but I think that the 34c is a step better. Let me know how it goes!
+nick shaves The gold colored version, 34G, if you will, is really nice looking as well.
Probably my go-to razor, Nick..with the right blade for your face, it's hard to beat for a 3 pass instrument.
what is the difference between this razor, the mercer long handled, and the #25c one?
love this one, i've been using it for 5 years now, previously was using the long handled version which was basically the same just with a longer handle and 3 piece.
Which do you prefer and why? Still using the 34c?
started 2 months ago with this razor and its easy to use.
My first DE razor coming from cartridge. The 34C has too short of a handle in my opinion. Bought a Muhle R89 Twist a week later which I've been using ever since and love.
I thought that too but after using it the cutting angle is so intuitive
@@greg6162 Glad you find it useful. It's the only razor that I constantly nick myself with. I have 5 others from different companies that I've been fine with. Maybe the awkwardness of it's length coupled with my giant hands could be the issue, lol.
Nick, I've been a subscriber and have been observing your videos for a while. I've got a Merkur 20C and a 39C Slant. Each razor has its own personality and giving that I respect your advice, I ordered a 34C HD today. I have a heavy Southern European beard with a grain that runs in every direction on my jaw line and under my neck in particular. Since you've spoken highly about the 34C, I've decided that I'd get one. I've been testing various blades in my two very different razors and I think that the 34C HD may be the "Happy Medium" in razors that I've been searching for. I, as others didn't know that the knob could be removed for cleaning. Thanks for the "Heads Up" on that and thanks for taking the time to inform us of the multitude of products that are on the market. As far as I'm concerned you're the go to guy for good advice and information. Thanks and all of the best.
Look nice the craftsmanship that was put into it. Nice DE
Between shaves and when cleaning how much do you take apart your 34C. Thanks for taking the bottom portion out of the handle for the video.
I bought today and personna blades too, will see what I got
Very good review and tutorial on how to use and clean and dry the razor ... I am already a subscriber but I just rang the bell ... Thanks ...
Your video made me get a 34c as my first DE safety razor. I've been happily shaving with it (my head too!) for over 6 months and I'm never going back to cartridge razors :)
@Raymond Palacios I also shave my head and will be trying it out on the head. Hope it works better than the head blade and I get a nice smooth shave.btw just ordered mine today and it will be my first safety razor
This is also my first safety razor. Easy to use. It is money well spent. I should have gone to safety razors a long time ago and could've save a lot of money wasted on multi-blade disposables. Never going to multi-blade again.
I'm not sure anyone saves money shaving with DE razors. It's too easy to start collecting them!
Great and helpful video ... Thanks ... Do you know what the base metal is i.e. Brass or Stainless steel ...
Handle is brass (chrome plated). Head is zinc alloy. (also chrome plated).
I have the same razor but I have alignment issues when loading blades I find I have to adjust blade before tightening.
I tried a cheap butterfly type double edge razor and it sucks. The blades never sit evenly in it causing one side to not shave at all. How do the blades sit in the Merkur 34C? Does the blade sit perfectly or does it move around like the POS that I have now. I really need need to get a good one. I hope this is it.
Rick Sievers The blade needs to be adjusted a bit (which is very easy to do, and often doesn't need to be done), but it otherwise fits great and sits sunigly
nick shaves do the blades sit at an angle?
Hello... If u get a good quality Parker butterfly safety razor u shouldn't have a problem.... I have the murkur hd and it shaves great .., you won't be disappointed the blades sit evenly and is a 2 piece razor which is easier to handle.. Take care
I've bought Timor Solinger TTO 1320 or 1322, I don't remember. POS too. The plastic Wilkinson Classic has the razor better seated than this Timor. When Buying TTO safety razors always keep in mind that they are mostly cold pressed sheet metal with no grounding nor machining done to them. Cheap to manufacture and POS, yup. Unless you trust a particular model (read the reviews!), don't buy. And always buy with an option of a full moneyback return. Examine TTOs before the first shaving carefully.
That said I'm going to buy Feather Popular first, then Merkur 34C, if Feather is subpar.
The ad on Amazon for the 34C states that it is stainless steel. I believe that to be a lie. How you had any feedback on this element? With smiles, Dr. Bob
Hey Nick! Love your videos. I was just wandering what is the number of threads on the top plate screw post that do actually screw into the bottom part? Thanks!
Hey Nick, Great video and then some!
Have you tried the "Merkur HD 43C Double Edge Razor "Long Handle-Stainless Steel" razor and if so how does it compare with the 34c
Thanks for the very helpful videos as I am just about to begin DE shaving once my 43C comes from Amazon!
PS: Hope you have a great holiday season!
Have you tried the merkur travel razor? I believe its the 3300 model.
What’s your opinion on the blade it comes with?
Hi Nick! And what about the die castings merkur heads? they break? and could they develop a kind of corrosion? I actually heard that.
Awesome razor.
does the shorter handle make it harder to use?
First time that I've seen that the bottom, twisting piece can be pulled out and removed for cleaning. Good to know. Thank you.
What is the price of this razor in India?
I have a Parker 99R with a long handle and a Merkur 34C HD. I love both razors it is easy to get the right angle but I prefer a longer handle. Does the Merkur have an equivalent long handle rendition of the 34CHD or is there a longer handle I can buy? I have about 10 razors but these are my go to razors. You are my favorite shave guy on you tube you are very informative in your videos. I have been wet shaving about a year. Take care.
garrygmc Merkur 38C should be the longer (25%) equivalent. Or the cheaper 23C, longer but thinner handle, 3 piece design.
Well i have a hard time shaving my chin with the weishi safety razor. Will this prevent that due to its stronger blade bend
I'm looking for a set - razor, brush, cream, blades. Where's the best place to get one online and not break the bank? Thanks. Great video. I think I want that one.
amazon
Film Magician Ebay
Fendrihan and Italian Barber are great too.
Hey Nick, great videos and awesome job informing everyone about wet shaving and all the products associated with it. Which brings me to my question: which brand do you recommend the most, Edwin Jagger or Merkur razors. I currently have a Parker 99R and I'm pretty satisfied with it. However, I'm looking for something with a better quality in terms of the styling and the engineering of the razor itself. Also, keep in mind that I'm happy with the weight and length of my Parker razor, so considering all of these preferences what type of razor do you suggest?
I highly suggest the merkur 34c, it's an all around amazing razor. Hope this helps!
nick shaves What do you think about the Merkur 23C in comparison to this?
So is it good to take it a part to make sure you clean it. And make sure it dry good. When you put it away. To make it last longer ?
Most razors last longer with regular cleaning and maintenance. I remove the blade, clean and dry it and my razor every shave. Done regularly to establish a routine, it tales between 1 or 2 minutes. Commenter up above doesn't understand this.
Do you find one side of the Merkur 34C shaves better than the other side.
When you put the blade in just turn it up side down and adjust it.
This is a great razor!!
Which razor do you think is better for a beginner? The merkur 34C in this video or the Edwin Jagger DE89? By the way, awesome job with the videos!
Thanks! In my opinion, the 34c. It was my first razor and is still my "go-to" - and now I have over 20 safety razors - oops!
Haha, thanks for your suggestion. My girlfriend sent a link a few weeks ago for the micro touch one safety razor but i thought it wouldn't be a good razor or it was a scam. After seeing your new video I am considering it. I do grow my hair a bit longer than how you had it in the micro touch one so I am leaning towards the 34c as you say it is more aggressive.... thoughts?
nick shaves what do you think of the long handled version is there a big difference?
there are many versions of merkur razors. so i want to know whether the razor includes model name on it
I prefer to this safety Razor.
Bought this today and the handle is waaaay too short to my liking. I‘ll return it for the model with a longer handle.
Nick what do you think about the merkur 30c? Is it a good choice?
Is it easy to shave with one of these razors?
Extremely easy! I have a beginner series out talking about the process of shaving with a safety razor. There is obviously an adjustment period but safety razors are a breeze to use
I agree, these are very easy to shave with. I have a long handle merkur, was actuallly a gift from my mother when I turned 18 (best gift ever seriously it will last my life), but am considering the short handle for when I'm not shaving in the shower. That's how easy they are to use though, I shave with it in the shower.
I am just starting out and bought a 34c HD after hearing you talk about it. I also started out with Feather blades. The first shave was a massacre. My second shave was fine, no cuts, but not perfectly smooth. My third shave however was a complete success, BSS and no cuts. Your techniques got me very far, very fast. Thanks Nick!
WaveCG that's less the razor and more to do with the blades. Try voshkod, personna lab blues, or polsilver. They have a good balance of sharp and smooth. Feather are the sharpest, but not smooth at all. First shave is always kind of brutal.
Persona Lab Blues are on my shopping list. I agree about Feather, sharp but not very smooth. Feather is nice because you don't feel any nicks and the cuts are so small that they rarely bleed, but that's not a great way to learn.
My biggest issue is that the hair under my chin grows from chin to ear which makes it difficult to get a BSS. I'm hoping Persona can fix this, because Feather's are too unforgiving for xg under my jawline.
Thanks for the Persona recommendation!
Where can I purchase the razor from ?
amazon
I've just wondered if it was a good starter razor for you ? And what about the weight isn't it difficult to get used ?
This was the perfect starter razor! Really smooth shaves, taught me how to shave with a safety. The weight is great, you want a heavier razor so that it can glide easier with its own weight. Thanks for posting!
I have a knock off one that I got for $20 . I held it in my hand with a real 34 c at my barbers . Feels the same . Looks the same . I'm thinking of getting a real one now . But will it shave better ? I know it will be built better , it's German . .
What's up Nick (or anyone who can answer this for me)? I like the likes of this razor but really want an open comb design. Do you know which Merkur would be closest to this one in design and quality but would have an open comb design? Thanks. Anyone who can help answer this is apprecaited. I will be a brand new DE shaver. I've been a 'rip off' Gillette top end user my whole adult life and am sick of the gouging prices. If you think a newbie shouldn't use an open comb for any reason , let me know and please tell me why also. Thanks a bunch. Keep up the great vids!
Oh man, the price has really dropped. What a time to be alive.
BTW, I must be missing something here. What is the purpose of having the end of the handle be removable?
It is easier to clean out any gunk that may get inside.
I own a Merkur 34C HD but I'm an Edwin Jagger DE89 fan. Paired with a Gillette Silver Blue. A safety razor and blade marriage made in heaven. A DE89 and Feather blade is nice too but not as smooth.
Nick what do you think about this vs. the EJ89?
is this open or closed comb?
Closed comb, scalloped edge.
are these safer to use than straight razors? straight razors tend to be very 'exposed' and you have to worry about blade angle. do DE safety razors have a better guard on them kind of like gilette razors?
Is there a difference between the merkur 34c and 34c hd?
Same thing
The HD is High Definition. Gives a clearer shave. Heard theres a 4k blade attachment coming out soon too so keep your eyes open fella.
Using the Merkur 23C [long handle]...would the shave be any different with the 34HD?
Nick, please help. I can’t squeeze the tension ring to get my merkur 34C bottom tube back in and locked.
I attempted to squeeze it back in, and was unsuccessful. What do you recommend. Many thanks in advance.
Try using a bit of oil or hold it with pliers of you cannot generate force by hand.
What is it like to use it and also is it suitable for a beginner who has not used DE razors because I'm worried if I might end up slicing my skin
Damn fine Safety Razor. I shower put a little hair conditioner on my face for pre shave. Get out the shower, soap up my face with Ivory soap and hot water. Shave up one pass. All done in a couple minutes.
Hey nick i have sensitive skin but coarse beard, which razor should i go 34c or 39c slant ? Thanks all the best from India
Go with an adjustable razor like the Merkur Progress or futur. You can use the higher more aggressive settings on course facial hair, and less aggressive settings on your neck(which is where more sensitive skin tends to be).
First of all excuse my English, not my first language. By the way, I’m new to wet shaving. Does 34c works well for 4 days of beard growth?
Put a good quality sharp blade in it and it should cut through 4 days growth just fine.
thank you sir.
I dont know what is the problem but if I want nice smooth shave from this razor I get irritation. If I apply no pressure at all, after 2-3 passes still worse results then Philips Aquatouch series 5000. I shave after shower, using badger brush and Nivea sensitive shaving cream.. Any suggestions to get better results with 34c without irritation?
Hello!
Do you know Merkur 23? I've heard it's the same thing as 34C, but with a longer handle. Is it true?
The 23 is also a bit lighter.
Great Razor got 1 recently never even cut myself with it its that good.I dont like mekur blades though but persona derby feather all good in it so far. Id bought a cheaper Parker razor before no use Get the 34c Mekur its terrific
I don't know why this thing cost more than a Philips 2100 watt induction cooker?
This thing is also built to last a lifetime, and offers the best way to do something that most men do daily.
I bought this razor and became a god.
Really nice razor. A great tool, but one thing I don't like about it, is that the ends of the blade are exposed. :(
Just got one and first shave today. Cost me $30-odd, maybe just under $40. To me it seems like a toy compared to my dad's 1940s/1950s Gillettes, that flipped open at the top like the doors on a fancy sports car, and could be adjusted for blade angle .... it turns out those are worth a few hundred bucks now. Welp, this thing shaves OK and a lot better than those plastic razors.
I think but I could be wrong modern Gillette safety razors are made in China. That flip open top your father would have used would have been great for ease of use in changing the blade but would require a bit more skill than the razors that are around today. It most certainly is not a toy.
Great video I love this razor just did a review of this on my channel
My GF says your nails are ugly...but I didn't notice them at all. Great review!
She asked me not to use the word ugly...
Huy Tran But that's what she meant...
Huy Tran Ok now she retracted what she just said. She actually wanted me to let you know that you need to get a manicure if you are going to post your fingers on youtube....I don't get it either...she's really weird that way...
Haha! I know, my nails aren't the best. I do a lot of gardening and building of remote control planes in my spare time - my nails get torn up
+Ryan H It was his gf. Blame her.
They should of polished the underneath too.. otherwise great razor
Definitely would have been a nice touch - especially since this is such an amazing razor
nick shaves nick have you every shave with olive oil useing a safty razor ? instead of shaving cream .
Hello tell me please it less Aggressive like muhle r89? Thank you
fantastic razor for beginners , but after a while you will want a more razor.
What razor would be a next step up for more aggressive shave ?
Bradley Davis parker 98r ultra heavyweight, very good razor, not as precise as the merkur but agreesive as fuck, you have to be careful with that one, i own both the merkur 34c and the parker 98R and for once a daythe merkur is better , but if you shave every 3 or 4 days the parker is the one to get.
+petelebu I gotcha. I usually shave every 2 days. I have a van Der Hagan razor that I bought for like $17. I hear nothing but good things about the 34C. I love butterfly doors though, so easy to open and clean and change blades.
Bradley Davis butterly razors are nice but uualy not as durable as screw ones, the van der hagen is good, but once you grab the parker 98r it will feel like a cheap toy
+petelebu thanks! I'm ready to purchase a good quality one. I'm sure the Van Der Hagan will feel like a cheap toy very soon lol.
so where is the blade dude?
Not going to buy another Merkur product. My 34C was seriously affected by the 28 °dH water where I live. It took 12 months for the calcium to gnaw off some of the screw in stem.
its too bad these nice razors are made with pot metal.
Fuck you.
Merkur 34c is an aggressive razor and with the feather razor blade,it will not work for the beginner.
Yep gotta go careful with that feather. I find the feathers lighten up after few uses. Gonna try as many shaves b4 I chuck blade this time. Boy pretty close shave though. Thank gawd I got some decent balm
To many fatherless children in this world who never had the chance to learn how to shave smart.
i dont like merkur razors, they seem to have bad plating and corrode after a few months of use
my Edwin Jagger is a real champ, excellent plating and ive also bought the Rockwell S6 MIM injected stainless steel razor
it has a beautifull finish (bead blasted) and can last 10.000 years only costs $99
has 6 settings on the head piece so you can swap out the base plate to make your shave less or more aggressive
merkur is a piece of crap tbh, it may shave great but the quality is really like chinese
even their gold plated razors are crap, they use some cheap mixed plating not even real gold
while Edwin Jagger uses 24k gold plating
say Zolingen
the stutter on, "when my hand are covered in uhhh (internal thoughts: can i say cream that sounds wrong, but what about that one time my hand were covered in...ah SHIT.. ADD SHAVING)... uuuuh Shaving cream! XD haha. Any way any razor by this company i have found to be great especially for sensitive skin or anyone who want a close shave. Stop wasting money on other razors seriously.