Safety razors have seen a resurgence due to their low long-term cost of ownership, along with the ability to prevent razor bumps. However, as we learned in our testing, not all safety razors are created equal. Each can provide a unique shaving experience, so it’s important to find the one that works best for you.
Today we’ll be reviewing some of the top brands, including Merkur, Edwin Jagger, Bevel, and more.
Safety Razors Compared
Safety Razor | Pieces | Rating | Best For |
---|---|---|---|
Merkur 34C | Two | 99.5 | Best Overall |
Edwin Jagger DE89 | Three | 98.3 | Affordable |
Merkur 38C | Two | 97.1 | Long Handle |
Merkur 23C | Three | 96.9 | Affordable Long Handle |
Bevel | Three | 96.5 | Razor Bumps |
Merkur 37C | Two | 96.2 | Sensitive Skin |
Parker 99R | One | 95.8 | One-Piece |
Muhle R41 | Three | 95.3 | Open Comb |
Merkur Futur | Two | 94.1 | Adjustable |
Feather AS-D2 | Three | 93.2 | Luxury Upgrade |
Muhle 4-Piece Set | Three | 92.5 | Gift Giving |
OneBlade Core | One | 92 | Hybrid |
Best Safety Razors of 2022
Here is our list of the best safety razors for 2022:
Merkur 34C Safety Razor
Rating
99.5
The Merkur 34C is a top-quality safety razor that provides a comfortable and close shave. It’s German-made with a knurled handle for increased grip and control.
Pros
Beginner-friendly price and shave experience
Well-made
German-made
Cons
Tough to control with large hands.
The Merkur 34C provides a very comfortable shaving experience, making it a favorite recommendation by barbers. At 3.25″ in length and 2.68oz (76g) in weight, it is smaller than other safety razors we reviewed. However, despite the short handle, the Merkur 34C still performs exceedingly well and enjoys increased control while shaving.
Additionally, the two-piece safety razor design has a universal fitting that is compatible with all major razor blade brands. Therefore, you can easily test between brands to find a blade that performs best for your facial hair density and skin.
The handle on the 34C features a meticulously engineered knurled grip – a demonstration of fine German craftsmanship, the country where the razor was both designed and made. Included with the Merkur 34C is one Merkur Platinum razor blade. So be sure to pick up a few extra blades if you don’t already have some on hand.
In-depth Merkur 34C review.
Edwin Jagger DE89 Safety Razor
Rating
98.3
The Edwin Jagger DE89 is a great entry-level safety razor. It’s priced affordably and offers a comfortable, mild shave.
Pros
Mild shave aggressiveness
Several finishes available
Affordably priced
Cons
Unknown metal interior
Some users reports that the handle is a bit short
Similar in both design and size to the Merkur 34C, the Edwin Jagger DE89 provides a mild aggressiveness that is recommended for beginners. At 3.75″ in length, it is neither too short nor too long – making it good for most men. Available in a variety of handle compositions including faux ivory, chrome plating, and even a rubberized grip, you have plenty of choices.
Priced at $30, $10 cheaper than the Merkur 34C, it is a budget-friendly double edge safety razor that saves you money. Lastly, the three-piece design makes it easy to clean and maintain.
In-depth Edwin Jagger DE89 review.
Merkur 38C Safety Razor
Rating
97.1
The Merkur 38C, also known as the Barberpole, is a great beginner-friendly safety razor. It’s chrome plated with a brass handle and die-cast zinc alloy head that provides a mildly aggressive shave.
Pros
Unique swirling design
The extra weight slices through facial hair easily
Chrome plated
Cons
Tougher to control for those with smaller hands
With a unique swirling design to represent the Barber’s pole that hangs outside of barbershops, the Merkur 38C, also known simply as the Barberpole, is a beginner-friendly safety razor. At approximately 4.25″ in total length, the Merkur 38C makes for a friendly transition should you be coming from a cartridge razor.
With a brass handle and die-casted zinc alloy head, both of which have been chrome plated, the two-piece Merkur 38C brings with it plenty of weight totaling 3.84oz (109g). Therefore, when using the 38C, little to no additional pressure is needed to slice through your facial hair.
This closed comb scalloped bar safety razor provides a mildly aggressive shave, perfect should you have sensitive skin. As we found in our head-to-head comparison of the Merkur 34C vs Merkur 38C, the shave experience was nearly identical. Ultimately, if you have large hands, go with the 38C.
In-depth Merkur 38C review.
Merkur 23C Safety Razor
Rating
96.9
The Merkur 23C is a great long handle safety razor that’s light-weight and beginner friendly. The chrome-plated knurled handle provides a steady grip.
Pros
Beginner cartridge-like form makes it good for beginners
Chrome-plated knurled handle
Competitively priced
Cons
Slightly more weight would make it even better
The Merkur 23C is a long handle safety razor that is 4″ in length – comparable to its counterpart, the Merkur 38C. However, what makes this different from the heavy-duty 38C is the weight. At only 2.1oz (60g) it is significantly lighter than any other double edge razor that we reviewed. While little pressure is necessary to cut through facial hair, should you have a thick or dense beard, some effort may be required – in that case, opt for the upgrade pick to the Merkur 38C.
Aside from length and weight, the Merkur 23C provides a pleasant shaving experience and is one of the best picks for beginners. The chrome-plated knurled handle design allows for a steady grip when shaving.
In-depth Merkur 23C review.
Bevel Safety Razor
Rating
96.5
The Bevel Safety Razor is a good razor for those looking to prevent razor bumps. It’s brass weighted and features a polished and brushed finish. The shave performance is good, but it can be difficult to control.
Pros
Widely available
Moderate aggressiveness
Cons
Long and smooth handle may be tough to use
Men’s grooming brand Bevel was founded in 2013 and has quickly made a name for itself. One of their most popular products is the Bevel Safety Razor. Designed to prevent razor bumps, it provides a nice comfortable shave with very little irritation or redness.
At 3.1oz (88g) in weight and 4.25″ long, it has moderate specs that can work for most men. Brass weighted and featuring a polished and brushed finish, it is unique. While the shave performance is good, controlling this razor may be difficult for some. With no knurled grip, a steady, dry hand is necessary.
The Bevel Safety Razor does provide a pronounced mild shave due to the solid safety bar on the closed comb head. Additionally, Bevel does include a pack of five razor blades with the safety razor which should last you about a month of regular shaving.
In-depth Bevel Safety Razor review.
Merkur 37C Slant Safety Razor
Rating
96.2
The Merkur 37C, also known as the Merkur Slant, is a great safety razor for experienced wet shavers. The slanted design cuts beard hair at an angle, which reduces tugging and irritation. The increased weight makes it easier to cut all beard types.
Pros
Reduces post-shave irritation or razor burn
Slanted design
Easier to cut all beard types
Cons
Intended for intermediate users
Rather than cutting hair straight on, the Merkur 37C, simply known as the Merkur Slant, cuts beard hair at an angle. This slant design reduces tugging on the hair follicle root as it is being cut, which is a common cause of irritation for men with sensitive skin.
Given the unusual design, professional barbers recommend that the Merkur 37C is best-suited for experienced wet shavers.
The Merkur 37C weighs 3.52oz (100g). The increased weight allows this safety razor to cut all beard types, including both thin and dense beards, easier.
In-depth Merkur 37C review.
Parker 99R Butterfly Safety Razor
Rating
95.8
The Parker 99R is a great butterfly safety razor that’s simple to use and provides a smooth shave. The moderate blade exposure helps reduce irritation and ingrown hairs. The swirled handle design provides a steady grip when wet shaving.
Pros
All-in-one design
Simple and easy to use
Quick and easy blade changing
Cons
Perhaps not as durable as others
With a simple twist of the handle, the Parker 99R butterfly razor allows you to quickly and safely change out the razor blade.
At 3.36oz (95g) and 4″ in length, shaving with the Parker 99R is pleasant. Not only will you get a smooth shave, but the moderate blade exposure will help reduce irritation and ingrown hairs. The swirled handle design on the Parker 99R will provide a steady grip when wet shaving.
The Parker 99R is weighted from a brass frame that has been chrome plated. Should you prefer a smaller butterfly safety razor, consider the Parker 87R.
Muhle R41 Open Comb Safety Razor
Rating
95.3
If you are an experienced wet shaver or barber looking for a close shave, the Muhle R41 is a great option. The open comb design is less susceptible to clogging and provides an aggressive shave. The handle is available in various finishes, including knurled chrome, black, tortoiseshell, and rose gold.
Pros
Extremely aggressive shave
Made in Germany
Open comb design
Cons
Only for experienced shavers
Experienced wet shavers and barbers should consider the Muhle R41 if a close shave is desired. The open comb design provides both an aggressive shave while being less susceptible to clogging. Men who have a naturally dense, thick beard or only shave once every few days will find the open comb design desirable.
The handle for the Muhle R41 is available in various finishes, including knurled chrome, black, tortoiseshell, and rose gold. The safety razor is 3.25″ in length and weighs a modest 2.2oz (64g). Lastly, Muhle makes the razor in Germany, a country known for its precision engineering.
Merkur Futur Adjustable Safety Razor
Rating
94.1
The Merkur Futur is a fantastic safety razor with an adjustable blade gap. The Merkur Futur is a well-designed and minimalist razor that borders on being artistic. The Progress is a suitable alternative for those who might have trouble navigating around both their nose and mustache areas.
Pros
Beautiful, modern design
The extra weight requires no extra pressure
Adjustable blade gap
Cons
The lowest setting is still aggressive
Bulky design
With a twist of the handle on the Merkur Futur, you can adjust the blade gap. This mechanical feature allows you to change the aggressiveness of the shave to suit your preference. With a high-quality brushed chrome finish, the Merkur Futur is a well-designed and minimalist razor that borders on being artistic.
One notable drawback for some might be the size of the head. While we didn’t experience any major issues, some men may have trouble navigating around both their nose and mustache areas. The Merkur Progress is a suitable alternative.
Lastly, the Merkur Futur is heavy. At 4.4oz (126g), it is the heaviest safety razor we reviewed.
In-depth Merkur Futur review.
Related: Best Adjustable Safety Razors
Feather AS-D2 Safety Razor
Rating
93.2
The Feather AS-D2 features a solid stainless steel design that is rust-resistant and not susceptible to cracking or chipping like chrome should the razor be accidentally dropped on hard ceramic bathroom tiles. Meticulously crafted in Japan, the 3.2oz (90g) body provides a confident, familiar feeling when held.
Pros
Expertly made of fine materials and craftsmanship
Solid stainless steel design
Japanese made
Cons
Best for wet shaving enthusiasts
Expensive
The Feather AS-D2 is one of the finest safety razors currently available. Made in Japan, the Feather AS-D2 features a solid stainless steel design. Stainless steel is rust-resistant and not susceptible to cracking or chipping like chrome should the razor be accidentally dropped on hard ceramic bathroom tiles.
With a diamond knurl etching along the length of the entire handle, the 3.2oz (90g) body provides a confident, familiar feeling when held.
Included with the Feather AS-D2 are Japanese-made Feather Hi-Stainless razor blades, arguably one of the best razor blades to be used with a safety razor.
Muhle 4-Piece Gift Set
Rating
92.5
This safety razor gift set has all the essentials: a safety razor, shaving brush, shaving bowl, and stand. The razor contained within this gift set is beginner-friendly. With chrome-plated finishes, it should also last for several years before showing signs of wear.
Pros
Everything needed for a barbershop-like shave
Respected brand
Cons
Expensive
Hard to find
Whether for yourself or someone else, this safety razor gift set has all the essentials: a safety razor, shaving brush, shaving bowl, and stand. Available in several finishes, you can find a trim to match the style of the intended gift recipient.
The razor contained within this gift set is beginner-friendly. With chrome-plated finishes, it should also last for several years before showing signs of wear. The included shave brush and shaving bowl will help to generate a thick lather.
OneBlade Core Single Blade Razor
Rating
92.0
The OneBlade Core is a hybrid alternative between cartridge razors and safety razors. The pivoting head on the OneBlade Core allows the blade to remain at the optimal cutting angle for close, comfortable results.
Pros
Pivoting head lessens the chance of nicks
Comfortable shave
Cons
Limited number of compatible razor blades
The OneBlade Core is a hybrid alternative between cartridge razors and safety razors. The pivoting head on the OneBlade Core allows the blade to remain at the optimal cutting angle for close, comfortable results. However, unlike other safety razors we reviewed, the OneBlade Core relies on a single blade rather than a double-edged design. Due to this design difference, the OneBlade Core can only be used with a limited number of blades, namely the Feather FHS-10.
The OneBlade Core relies on a rust-resistant stainless steel core along with a plastic head and polymer body. This razor should be considered if you are looking for a more modern design.
Related: OneBlade Core Review
9 Quick Tips for Buying a Safety Razor
Take a moment to consider the following before buying a safety razor:
- Head Design: Available in three types which include a closed comb, open comb, and slant bar. A closed comb safety razor is beginner-friendly and the least aggressive. An open comb provides an aggressive shave and is less susceptible to clogging. Slant bar safety razors cut facial hair at an angle which helps to reduce irritation.
- Weight: Heavy safety razors allow the razor blade to cut through facial hair with no additional pressure.
- Length: Short safety razors allow for greater control while shaving. Consider a handle longer than 4″ should you have large hands.
- Number of Pieces: Safety razors can be made with a one, two, or three-piece design. A greater number of pieces may allow for easier cleaning. There is no significant impact on shaving performance.
- Blade Gap: The blade gap impacts the aggressiveness of the shave. A safety razor can have either a fixed blade gap or is adjustable.
- Grip: The handle design can provide greater control when using a safety razor. Grips vary from rubber to a metal knurled etching.
- Razor Blades: Safety razors can be used with many different razor blade brands. Consider a variety pack to test which brand works best for you.
- Brand: Companies such as DOVO Solingen (Merkur), Edwin Jagger, Muhle, and others have expertise in fine metallurgy and precision engineering.
- Price Range: The average price ranges between $30 and $75 for a well-made safety razor that will last you for several years.
Safety Razor Blades
We recently published a guide reviewing some of the best safety razor blades.
However, if this is your first safety razor, we strongly recommend that you consider buying a razor blade variety pack. Variety packs contain a few blades from several manufacturers. It’s an easy way to test across many different brands without spending much money.
Many different variety packs are available. Here’s one we think is great for beginners.
How to Use a Double Edge Safety Razor
Most men mistakenly pick up a safety razor and start shaving with it the same way they would a cartridge razor. This will undoubtedly lead to nicks, cuts, and irritation.
Here are the steps you need to take to get a perfect shave with your safety razor:
- Wet your beard entirely with warm water. This will soften your facial hair and make it easier to cut.
- Apply shaving cream or gel to your beard. We recommend using thick shaving cream to provide more lubrication and cushion.
- Take your safety razor and start with the grain of your beard. This means shaving in the same direction that your hair grows.
- Once you’ve gone with the grain, you can go against the grain for a closer shave. Just be very careful as this can easily lead to nicks and cuts.
- Rinse your face with cold water and apply a soothing aftershave balm.
Double Edge Safety Razor FAQs
Here are answers to a few common questions when first using a safety razor:
When shaving with a safety razor, you must hold the razor at the optimal cutting angle of 30 to 45-degrees. This is different from a multi-blade cartridge or disposable razor that has a pivoting head. After two weeks of practice, you should expect close and comfortable results.
In most instances, the safety razor you buy will include a few razor blades to start with. It is recommended that you buy additional double edge safety razor blades with your new razor. A variety pack is a good and affordable way to test across many different brands and determine which blade works best for your skin and beard type. Be sure to follow the razor disposal laws of your local municipality and dispose or recycle razor blades accordingly.
By relying on a solid metal body, safety razors have little impact on the environment during production or when they are disposed of as they can be recycled. Safety razors are a sustainable alternative to cartridge razors.