close shave but extremely unforgiving, 24 Dec. 2011

I bought this razor as an addition to my main EJ89 Chatsworth and Merkur HD. I was initially considering a Merkur Slant, but decided to go this this one.The razor is finished extremely well, and the chrome is outstanding. The handle is a little on the light side but the balance of the razor is good.Using it is quite different from the regular razors. You need to have a shallower angle(flatter rather than perpendicular) as the blade has considerable more exposure than the EJ89. The mantra of no pressure is even more appropriate here as this razor is totally unforgiving and will draw blood at the slightest mistake. You do get a closer shave in fewer passes if you handle it correctly.Definitely not for the beginner...Apr 2012:Have continued to use this at least once a week and now finally given up. Its not worth it. My EJ89 gives as smooth a shave with less hassle and pain

Verified Purchase This review is from: Muhle R41 Safety Razor (Personal Care)

They call it "The Beast" for a reason..., 5 May 2014

I've caught the DE shaving bug and I'm always keen to try out new razors. Reading up on the Muhle R41 on various shaving websites, this razor has got a bit of a reputation for being one of the most aggressive DE razors on the market. In fact, it is frequently referred to simply as "The Beast". So, always one for a challenge, I decided that I wanted a piece of the action.

The R41 comes in a very nice box, and the razor itself looks absolutely stunning. The chrome finishing is immaculate. I'd put the finish right up there alongside my Edwin Jagger Chrome-Plated Lined Handle Double-Edge Safety Razor. The safety bar on the R41 is not a fully open comb, but is scalloped, which also helps to give it a distinguished look. I'm generally a fan of open comb / scalloped safety bars, because I think it helps to allow the shaving cream to pass through the comb, unlike closed combs which tend to wipe the cream away before the blade has had a chance to cut the hairs. I tend to find that I...

This review is from: Muhle R41 Safety Razor (Personal Care)

When an animal bares its teeth, it's a sign of aggression. Approach with caution., 29 Dec. 2012

The Muhle R41 is an unforgiving beast; the head is an open comb design but not like any other that I have seen. Open comb heads are more aggressive, but the R41 is the most aggressive I have ever used. The R41 exposes far more of the blade and demands impeccable technique from the shaver. I've been using DE razors for a while now and I thought I had nailed my routine pretty well; the R41 reminds you not to get complacent. I like to use the R41 when I've let my beard grow for 3-4 days and can take my time with the shave. It's not the one for when I'm running late with my morning routine.

What I like about the R41 is:

1. Build quality - it has a lovely finish and the unit screws together with a silky smoothness; typical German excellence.

2. Balance - the handle is rather light, but the head is perfectly balanced and feels just-right in the hand. Considering you must apply no pressure when using this razor, the well balanced head is a must, and Muhle have it...

This review is from: Muhle R41 Safety Razor (Personal Care)