The Complete Guide to Safety Razors

Save $200+ per year. Get a closer, smoother shave. Reduce skin irritation and plastic waste.

$0.12 per blade vs $4+ per cartridge
90% less razor burn reported
2B plastic razors in landfills yearly
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Why Thousands Are Switching to Safety Razors

A safety razor is a classic shaving tool that uses a single, replaceable double-edge blade held at a fixed angle by a protective guard. First patented in 1904, this design dominated shaving for decades before multi-blade cartridge razors entered the market in the 1970s. Today, safety razors are experiencing a major resurgence as shavers discover what their grandparents knew: a single sharp blade delivers a superior shave.

The appeal is straightforward. Cartridge razor refills cost $4-6 each, adding up to $200-300 per year for regular shavers. Safety razor blades cost $0.10-0.50 each. After purchasing a quality razor for $30-70, the ongoing cost drops to under $30 per year. Most people break even within 2-4 months.

Beyond cost, many switch to escape the skin irritation caused by multi-blade cartridges. The "lift and cut" action of 3-5 blade heads pulls hair before cutting, leading to ingrown hairs and razor burn. A single blade cuts cleanly without this tugging effect. For those with sensitive skin, the difference can be dramatic.

This guide covers everything you need to know: the best safety razors for beginners, blade comparisons with specific razor pairings, step-by-step shaving technique, a savings calculator, and dedicated guidance for women switching from cartridge razors. Whether you're motivated by cost savings, better skin, or environmental concerns, you'll find the information to make the switch with confidence.

Save $200+ Per Year

Replace $4-6 cartridges with $0.12 blades. Your razor pays for itself in months.

Reduce Irritation

Single-blade design eliminates the multi-blade tugging that causes ingrown hairs.

Less Plastic Waste

Metal blades are recyclable. One razor lasts decades, not months.

Best Safety Razors for Beginners (2025)

After testing dozens of razors, these five consistently deliver the best results for newcomers. Each balances forgiveness with efficiency, so you can learn proper technique without frustration.

Best Overall Merkur 34C
Best Budget Vikings Blade
Sensitive Skin Henson AL-13
Most Versatile Rockwell 6C
Razor Price Weight Aggressiveness Best For
Merkur 34C HDEditor's Choice ~$40 77g Mild Most beginners Check Price
Edwin Jagger DE89 ~$35 65g Mild Lighter feel preference Check Price
Vikings Blade ChieftainBest Value ~$30 100g Mild-Med Budget-conscious Check Price
Henson AL-13 ~$70 38g Very Mild Sensitive skin Check Price
Rockwell 6C ~$50 102g Adjustable Experimentation Check Price

Merkur 34C HD - Editor's Choice

~$40

The Merkur 34C has earned its reputation as the gold standard beginner razor. Made in Germany with solid brass construction, this razor delivers consistent performance for years. The "HD" stands for Heavy Duty, referring to its shorter, thicker handle that provides excellent control.

At 77 grams, it has enough weight to cut efficiently without requiring any pressure from you. The closed comb design protects your skin while still allowing for a close shave. Most beginners find the learning curve forgiving - you'll get good shaves even as you perfect your technique.

Weight: 77g
Handle: 3" (short)
Head: Closed comb
Best blades: Astra SP, Derby Extra

Pros

  • Excellent build quality
  • Forgiving blade angle
  • Widely available
  • Great resale value

Cons

  • Short handle takes adjustment
  • No adjustability
Check Price on Amazon

Edwin Jagger DE89

~$35

The Edwin Jagger DE89 is often mentioned alongside the Merkur 34C as one of the two best beginner razors. Made in Sheffield, England, it features a chrome-plated brass construction with an elegant design that looks premium without the premium price.

Weighing just 65 grams, it's noticeably lighter than the Merkur. Some shavers prefer this lighter touch, especially those with softer beards. The 3.5-inch handle is slightly longer, which may feel more comfortable for those with larger hands.

Weight: 65g
Handle: 3.5"
Head: Closed comb
Best blades: Astra SP, Personna

Pros

  • Affordable price point
  • Great for learning angle
  • Elegant design
  • Slightly longer handle

Cons

  • Chrome can wear over years
  • Lighter weight not for everyone
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Vikings Blade Chieftain - Best Value

~$30

For those watching their budget, the Vikings Blade Chieftain offers remarkable quality at its price point. It comes with a luxury case, 5 Swedish platinum blades, and a mirrored finish that rivals razors costing twice as much.

At 100 grams, it's heavier than most beginner razors. This extra weight helps the blade cut through stubble without requiring pressure. The aggressiveness sits between mild and medium, making it slightly more efficient than the Merkur or Edwin Jagger while remaining beginner-friendly.

Weight: 100g
Handle: 4"
Head: Closed comb
Includes: Case, 5 blades

Pros

  • Excellent value
  • Includes case and blades
  • Good weight distribution
  • Long handle

Cons

  • Slightly more aggressive
  • Less proven long-term durability
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Henson AL-13 - Best for Sensitive Skin

~$70

The Henson AL-13 represents modern engineering applied to traditional shaving. Machined from aerospace-grade aluminum to incredibly tight tolerances, it exposes less blade than any other safety razor on the market. This makes it nearly impossible to cut yourself.

For those with sensitive skin who've struggled with razor burn and irritation, the Henson is transformative. The ultra-mild design means you can shave daily without discomfort. The tradeoff: very coarse beards may require more passes than with a more aggressive razor.

Weight: 38g (aluminum)
Handle: 3.5"
Material: Aerospace aluminum
Best blades: Feather, Nacet

Pros

  • Extremely mild and safe
  • Precision machined
  • Ideal for daily shaving
  • Almost no learning curve

Cons

  • Higher price point
  • May need sharper blades
  • Light weight not for everyone
Check Price on Amazon

Rockwell 6C - Most Versatile

~$50

The Rockwell 6C solves a common beginner dilemma: how do you know what aggressiveness level suits you? This razor includes three interchangeable base plates, each with two settings, giving you six aggressiveness levels (R1 through R6) to experiment with.

Start at R2 or R3 while learning, then adjust based on results. Find yourself getting tugging? Move up a setting. Too much irritation? Move down. Once you discover your sweet spot, you have a razor perfectly tuned to your beard and skin.

Weight: 102g
Handle: 3.7"
Settings: 6 levels (R1-R6)
Best blades: Personna, Gillette Silver Blue

Pros

  • 6 aggressiveness settings
  • Learn your preferences
  • Solid weight
  • Includes 5 blades

Cons

  • Plates can be fiddly to change
  • More complex than fixed razors
Check Price on Amazon

Best Safety Razor Blades & Pairings

Blade selection is personal. Your beard thickness, skin sensitivity, and technique all influence which blade works best. Here's what you need to know to find your ideal blade.

Blade Sharpness Smoothness Durability Cost/Blade Best For
Astra Superior PlatinumRecommended 7/10 8/10 3-5 shaves ~$0.12 Best all-around Buy
Derby ExtraBeginner 5/10 9/10 2-4 shaves ~$0.10 Learning technique Buy
Feather Hi-StainlessSharp! 10/10 6/10 2-3 shaves ~$0.45 Experienced users Buy
Gillette Silver Blue 8/10 8/10 4-5 shaves ~$0.30 Quality mid-range Buy
Blade Sampler Pack Varies Varies Varies ~$0.30 avg Finding your blade Buy

Razor + Blade Pairing Recommendations

The right blade depends on your razor. Mild razors pair well with sharper blades, while aggressive razors work better with smoother blades. Here are proven combinations:

Classic Beginner Combo

Merkur 34C + Astra SP

The most recommended combination for beginners. Mild razor with a balanced blade delivers consistent results while you learn.

Ultra-Forgiving Start

Edwin Jagger DE89 + Derby Extra

Maximum forgiveness for the absolute beginner. The mild blade in a mild razor minimizes any chance of irritation.

Sensitive Skin Solution

Henson AL-13 + Feather

The ultra-mild Henson tames the sharpest blade. Result: efficient cutting without the irritation Feathers can cause in other razors.

Balanced Versatility

Rockwell 6C (R3) + Gillette Silver Blue

A quality blade in an adjustable razor. Start at R3 and adjust based on your results.

Start With a Blade Sampler

Don't buy 100 blades until you know what works for you. A blade sampler pack lets you try multiple brands for a few dollars. Use each blade brand 2-3 times before judging it - blades often improve after the first shave.

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Make Your Blades Last Longer

1

Pat Dry After Use

Shake off excess water and pat the blade dry with a towel. This simple step can extend blade life by 50%.

2

Store Properly

Keep your razor in a dry location. Avoid leaving it in the shower where constant moisture promotes corrosion.

3

Know When to Change

Most blades last 5-7 shaves. If you feel tugging instead of cutting, or need more passes than usual, it's time for a new blade.

How to Shave with a Safety Razor

Proper technique is the key to great results. Master these fundamentals and you'll wonder why you ever used cartridge razors.

Before You Shave: Preparation

1

Shower First or Use Hot Towel

Warm water softens your hair and opens pores. Shaving after a shower makes a noticeable difference. If you can't shower, press a hot wet towel to your face for 2-3 minutes.

2

Apply Pre-Shave Oil (Optional)

For sensitive skin, a few drops of pre-shave oil create a protective layer. Not essential, but helpful if you're prone to irritation.

3

Build Quality Lather

Skip the canned foam. Use a shaving soap or cream with a brush to create a rich, slick lather. Work it into your beard in circular motions for at least 30 seconds.

The Shaving Technique

30°

The 30-Degree Angle

Hold the razor handle about 30 degrees from your face. A simple way to find it: place the top cap flat against your skin, then slowly tilt the handle away until the blade just makes contact.

1

Load the Blade

Unscrew the handle, place the blade on the baseplate (edges centered), and carefully reassemble. The blade should be secure but not overtightened.

2

Zero Pressure

This is the most important rule. Let the weight of the razor do the cutting. Apply NO pressure beyond what's needed to maintain contact. Pushing causes nicks and irritation.

3

Short Strokes

Use 1-2 inch strokes, rinsing the blade frequently. Long sweeping strokes work for cartridge razors but not safety razors.

4

With the Grain (First Pass)

Your first pass should always go in the direction your hair grows. For most men, this means downward on cheeks and neck (though neck grain varies). Map your grain direction by feeling stubble.

5

Across the Grain (Optional Second Pass)

Re-lather and shave perpendicular to grain direction for a closer shave. Many shavers find WTG + XTG provides excellent results without irritation.

6

Against the Grain (Advanced)

Only attempt after you've mastered technique. ATG provides the closest shave but highest irritation risk. Many experienced shavers skip this step entirely.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

!

Too Much Pressure

The #1 cause of nicks and irritation. Safety razors are designed to use their own weight. If you're pressing, you're doing it wrong.

!

Wrong Angle

Too steep and the blade scrapes. Too shallow and it won't cut. Find the 30-degree sweet spot and maintain it throughout your stroke.

!

Too Many Passes

Chasing "baby smooth" as a beginner leads to irritation. One or two passes is plenty while learning. You can add passes as your technique improves.

!

Using a Dull Blade

A blade that tugs is a blade that needs replacing. Fresh blades cut cleanly; dull blades cause nicks and require more pressure.

Post-Shave Care

Cold Water Rinse

Rinse your face with cold water to close pores and soothe skin. Pat dry with a clean towel.

Alum Block (Optional)

Rub a damp alum block over your face. It's a natural antiseptic that closes small nicks and tightens pores. Rinse off after 30 seconds.

Aftershave Balm

Use an alcohol-free balm to moisturize and protect your skin. Avoid alcohol-based splashes if you have sensitive skin.

Clean Your Razor

Rinse your razor thoroughly, shake off excess water, and store in a dry place. A quick dry with a towel extends blade life.

Safety Razor Savings Calculator

See how much you'll save by switching from cartridge razors. Adjust the values to match your shaving habits.

Your Current Costs

Safety Razor Costs

Your Savings

Monthly Cartridge Cost $18.00
Monthly Safety Razor Cost $0.60
Monthly Savings $17.40
Year 1 $168.80 (after razor purchase)
Year 3 $585.40
Year 5 $1,002.00

Break-even point: 2.3 months

Example Scenarios

Light Shaver

2-3 shaves/week

Save $180+ in Year 1

Daily Shaver

5-7 shaves/week

Save $250+ in Year 1

Heavy Beard

Daily, coarse hair

Save $300+ in Year 1

Women's Safety Razor Guide

Safety razors aren't just for faces. Women are switching to safety razors for leg, underarm, and bikini shaving - saving money while getting better results.

Why Women Are Switching

The benefits are even more significant for body shaving. Larger surface areas mean more blade usage, so the cost savings multiply. A typical woman using cartridge razors spends $100-200 per year on leg shaving alone. Switch to safety razor blades at $0.10-0.15 each, and that drops to under $20.

Beyond cost, many women find that safety razors dramatically reduce razor bumps and ingrown hairs, especially in sensitive areas. The single blade cuts hair cleanly rather than pulling and cutting below the skin surface like multi-blade cartridges.

Best Safety Razors for Women

Look for these features when choosing a razor for body shaving:

  • Longer handle (4" or more) - Better reach for legs and easier grip in wet conditions
  • Mild aggressiveness - Reduces risk of nicks on contoured areas like knees and ankles
  • Good grip texture - Essential when your hands are wet and soapy

Edwin Jagger DE89L (Long Handle)

The classic DE89 with a 4" handle designed for body shaving. Same mild head, better reach.

Check Price

Recommended Blades

Start with Derby Extra or Astra SP - both are smooth and forgiving for body shaving.

Derby Extra

Body Shaving Technique

Legs

Use long, gentle strokes with the grain (usually downward). No pressure needed - let the razor glide. Re-lather between sections and take your time around knees and ankles.

Underarms

Hair grows in multiple directions, so use short strokes in different directions. Stretch the skin taut with your free hand. A fresh blade makes all the difference here.

Bikini Area

Only shave with the grain to minimize irritation. Use a fresh blade, extra lather, and go slowly. This area is sensitive - don't try for baby smooth on your first attempt.

General Tips

Exfoliate before shaving to prevent ingrown hairs. Moisturize after. Consider a shaving oil for extra protection in sensitive areas.

Frequently Asked Questions

Got questions? We've got answers. Click any question to see the full answer.

For most people, yes. Safety razors provide a closer shave with less irritation because they use a single sharp blade instead of multiple blades that tug and pull. They're also significantly cheaper long-term ($0.10-0.50 per blade vs $4-6 per cartridge) and better for the environment since the metal blades are recyclable.

Most people change blades every 5-7 shaves, though this varies by beard thickness and blade brand. Signs you need a new blade: tugging sensation, requires more passes, or increased irritation. Some get 10+ shaves per blade; others prefer fresh blades every 2-3 shaves. At $0.10-0.15 per blade, it's better to change too often than too rarely.

Absolutely. Modern safety razors like the Merkur 34C and Edwin Jagger DE89 are designed to be beginner-friendly. Expect a 2-4 week learning curve. Start with a mild razor and forgiving blade (like Astra SP or Derby Extra), use zero pressure, and maintain a 30-degree angle. Most beginners are comfortable within a few shaves.

Generally yes. Single-blade razors don't create the "lift and cut" action of multi-blade cartridges that causes ingrown hairs. Combined with proper technique (no pressure, correct angle, quality lather), most users report significant reduction in razor burn and irritation. For sensitive skin, this is often the main reason to switch.

Yes. Standard double-edge (DE) blades are universally sized and fit all standard safety razors. This means you can try any brand of blade in your razor. The only exceptions are proprietary systems like the OneBlade or some vintage razors, which use their own blade formats.

Yes, with limitations. The razor handle can go in carry-on luggage - it's just metal with no blade. However, blades must go in checked luggage (TSA considers them prohibited items in carry-on). For short trips, some travelers buy blades at their destination or ship them ahead.

Approximately 30 degrees from your face - imagine the handle pointing away from your face at a slight angle. A simple technique: place the razor head flat against your face (cap touching skin), then slowly tilt the handle down until the blade just begins to contact your skin. That's your starting angle.

Three key factors: 1) Zero pressure - let the razor's weight do the work, 2) Proper angle - about 30 degrees, 3) Short strokes - 1-2 inches at a time. Most cuts come from pressing too hard or trying to rush. Use quality lather and take your time, especially when learning.

Often better than cartridge razors. Single-blade design causes less irritation than multi-blade cartridges. For sensitive skin, choose a mild razor (Henson AL-13, Merkur 34C) with a gentle blade (Derby Extra), use pre-shave oil, quality lather, and follow up with alcohol-free aftershave balm.

Typical savings: $150-250 per year after the initial razor purchase. Example: Replacing $4.50 cartridges (4/month = $216/year) with $0.15 blades (4/month = $7.20/year) saves about $209/year. The $40 razor pays for itself in about 2-3 months. Use our savings calculator to see your specific numbers.

Ready to Make the Switch?

Join the thousands who've discovered better shaves for less money. Start with our top recommendation and never look back at expensive cartridges.

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