Merkur Model 180 Long Handled Safety Razor

UPDATED 6/27

OK.

So if you're here, it's either because (1) you're one of the old schoolers who recognized the brand and was looking for another razor like the one you had back when shaving was an art form, or (2) you're a young buck who has done studying and have heard the recent hype: That straight razors and safety razors are making a comeback.

Unfortunately, I can't speak to the 1st audience, because I wasn't born when Merkur was made popular. I can, however, speak to the 2nd audience, as I somewhat fit into that category.

First some history. I'd been a Gillette man for the longest time. I had the old Mach 2 Turbo, then the Mach 3, then the M3 Power, then the Fusion. Yes, I've wasted a lot of money, between the handles and the replacement razors. I'd estimate it to be in the $1,000 range. Well, as you can probably understand, I didn't want to spend that money on razors anymore, plus I'd read stories that the straight and safety razors of old times are supposed to be better for your shaving area than the newer razors with multiple blades and lube strips, mostly due to the frequency of razor burn. So I decide to pick one of these up.

Just so you know, I use (and recommend) various shaving products, listed as follows:

- Proraso Shaving Soap with Eucalyptus Oil and Menthol - Normal Skin 150ml/5.2oz - I use this now. Very good lather, good smell, a bit expensive and a tad difficult to rinse out of the razor if you don't give it enough water.
- Proraso Pre and Post Shave Cream - 3.6 oz - I use this now. Makes the blade glide over the skin when applied as a base under the shaving soap. Increases the eucalyptus smell and gives a cooling sensation to the face. Good stuff, small portion.
- Proraso Menthol and Allantoin Aftershave Splash - I use this now. Smells like a lighter version of BRUT which was disappointing; I expected a light eucalyptus smell. Seems to do pretty good at smoothing the skin, nice texture, but nothing special.
- Van Der Hagen Select Shave Soap, 2.5-Ounce Boxes (Pack of 12) - I use this now. Great value for the price, solid soap, lathers thick, but you have to have the right ratio of soap to water, so it's not too runny.
- Col. Conk World's Famous Shaving Soap, Almond * 3 - Pack * Each Net Weight 2.25 Oz - Great smell, applies smooth, but doesn't lather quite as thick as I prefer. Also I found it had basically tarnished the inside of the soap cup over time. Not a big deal, just something to consider.
- 100 7a.m. Platinum Double Edge Safety Razor Blades - Excellent value, they don't last long...the idea is to buy so many that it doesn't matter if they don't last that long. I can get between 1 and 2 weeks use out of a single blade; so you figure between 1 and 3 years without having to buy more.
- Shaving Gift Set with Merkur Safety Razor, Bowl, Shaving Soap, Badger Brush, Stand and Safety Razor, Great Fathers Day Gift - Bought for myself, the brush is good, and I gave away the small razor that came with it. It's not the top of the line but it'll do.


The first thing I noticed about this little ditty is that it's easy to clean. If you're like me and you shave using a running faucet of warm/hot water, you'll be right at home and pleasantly surprised at how easy it is to clean. One thing to watch out for - because it's all metal, it holds in the heat VERY WELL - so you'll not want to use full heat or I guarantee you'll burn yourself something fierce.

Second thing I noticed, and quite notable, is how easy it is to replace the actual blade. Just unscrew the handle, lift off the bottom, replace the blade, replace and screw back on. Never easier. Speaking of the blade, the instructions don't tell you how frequently to replace the blade, but online some people state to replace it once a week. That seems a bit frequent to me if you're just doing maintenance shaves once a day. Some with rougher beards I can understand, but mine is not nearly that bad - and mostly maintenance from previous shaves. I would say - change it when it feels like it's starting to snag easier than you're thinking it should. The biggest things to keep in mind: lather, lather, lather, and keep the blade wet.

I saw a few people were cutting themselves with this razor. I haven't cut myself and I've used it quite a bit. The two main causes of cutting oneself are incorrect angling and too much pressure. Because this is a razor with no plastic guides to protect you, it means you have to go slower, be more careful, and master the art of shaving the way it was originally intended. Not for nothing though - you just need to practice control. Also, you can't hold this razor like the older ones, you really need to hold it with graceful fingers; the lighter you hold it the less tempted you'll be to press down when you're shaving. The angle also matters - it shouldn't be held like a squeegee, it should be held at roughly a 30 degree angle. The combination will effectively leave it up to the blade to do the cutting, not your strength (or lack thereof).

I did notice that this blade can get insanely close. In fact, just to test, I shaved with my old Fusion razor and felt my face; I could feel follicles, but then I shaved right after with the Merkur, and it actually got hair that the Fusion didn't. Additionally, I had some razor bumps on my neckline, not too large, but still visible, no matter how frequently I shaved. Since shaving with the Merkur, some of these have disappeared entirely. I also follow up my shave with an all-over astringent due to oil issues, and normally it's a crazy burn after shaving, but after shaving with the Merkur there's no burn whatsoever. Definitely a positive change from what I used to experience, trust me.

Some added information: you want to make sure your face is clean before shaving. I say that because the oils and dirt on your face can contribute to razor bumps and poor shaving quality. The cleaner the better. In my case I use some shower cleaners that work extremely well, but just make sure your face is clean with whatever you choose to use. Also, to improve the quality of the shave, I apply a bit of baby oil to my still-wet face, then the shaving soap lather on top of that. Helps the blade move smoother across the skin and makes it feel baby smooth. Some other items are body oil (Vaseline has two good ones, cocoa butter and aloe vera) and and certain pre-shave oils. Everyone's physiology is different though; do whatever is comfortable for you. I'm just adding this here for ideas.

In short, if you're tired of paying $20-$30 for blades that claim to last a month yet last a week or two...if you're wanting a closer, more comfortable shave with little-to-no razor burn...if you want to experience what the old schoolers have been talking about, definitely try a Merkur.

I wanted to throw in a bit here as I see more and more reviews from people who just don't get it. Merkur is all about the quality of the shave, not the speed. I don't know how many times people need to express that, but if you do your research you will find numerous people saying the same thing - this razor is NOT for those who just want to speed through their shave! You need to take your time and not rush through it. You WILL cut yourself if you rush with this razor. You WILL NOT get a quality shave if you don't take your time. You WILL wear down the blade if you dry shave, and this blade WILL NOT protect you. If you're going to use this razor, take the proper precautions. If you know you're a speed demon shaver, DON'T BUY THIS, because I really don't want to see you up on here complaining that you have to take your time.

I remember the day I purchased the new 5 blade razor from Gillette. I was excited and hopeful that FINALLY I wouldn't have to deal with razor burn, bumps, etc anymore. Alas, 5 blades aren't better than 4, just as 4 blades weren't better than 3, so on and so forth. As it turns out you just need one simple little blade to do the trick.

After reading the article 'How to Shave Like Your Grandpa' (http://artofmanliness.com/2008/01/04/how-to-shave-like-your-grandpa/) I decided to switch to a high quality shaving cream, badger brush, and aftershave lotion. I also purchased the Merkur razor and extra blades. The difference cannot be put into words. The best I can do is 'simply amazing'. I never, never get any kind of irritated skin post-shave. I cannot feel one bit of stubble afterwards, even if I run my hand against the grain. The quality of the shave is unsurpassed (at least for at-home shaves. Straight blade shaves are a different story).

There is a slight learning curve to this product. I have never (knock on wood) cut myself but finding the right angle is a bit tricky. You'll learn quickly and the time it takes to shave will become shorter and shorter. But, even though I have the process down to a science it does take me a bit longer than a cheapie razor but I look at shaving as an indulgent experience now; I know my girlfriend appreciates it.

I cannot recommend this product enough. I tried probably 100 different ways to rid myself of irritation and never found it until I tried a Merkur razor. You will not be disappointed with this razor or the results.

***Updated: 02/05/09***

I have tried many different brands of blades for this razor. Nothing compares to the Merkur blades. Just FYI...

I've used disposable razors on my legs forever and never once felt satisified with my shaving experience. The last straw happened recently when Amazon sent me a few free schick quattro's.

I gave them a try thinking hmmm, four blades must equal one good close shave but unfortunately for me four cheap blades equal lots of razor burn and hair clogging up the razor rendering them quickly useless because its nearly impossible picking the tiny hairs out from between all four blades.

I ordered this Merkur long handled razor after researching the reviews and I'm so happy that I did!

This razor has a beautiful chrome finish with a nice heavy feel to it. Its real quality and built for a lifetime of service. Its such an easy design and gives such a close shave that it makes me wonder how disposable razors were ever invented in the first place.

Unscrew the head, insert the blade then tighten the head. What could be any easier?! I purchased 60 merkur blades with this razorMerkur Double Edge Safety Razor Blades- 3 Packs of 10 Blades - 30 Blades in Total- Made in Germany and it all takes up less room than a small pack of plastic disposable razors.

My first shave with my new merkur felt silky smooth. The blade cuts my leg hair so easily with just one pass, it really speeds up the whole shaving process, just be careful and take your time to avoid injury.

I love this razor and the shave it provides! Its worth every penny!

I got tired of using disposable razors and Mach 3s etc. because they cost too much, dull too quickly, cut me up, and leave my face stinging afterwards. So I looked around, found this one, and decided to give it a go. Best decision I ever made as far as grooming goes. Combined with a shaving brush and a nice shave soap, this razor gets me smooth quickly and painlessly. Shaving in the morning after a nice hot shower has become a pleasant ritual now instead of a painful necessity. The razor is heavy, chrome, and built to last. The Merkur blades are also excellent quality, but I usually get the Gillette ones from a local store (Most Meijer and Wal-Marts carry the replacement blades still) and they work fine as well. Probably save me thousands of dollars just on blades in the long run. Think about it. Why buy 3 cartridges for a Mach 3 or whatever for 12 bucks when you can buy 10 blades for 5 bucks and the plain old blades last longer and shave better? I'll never use anything but a good old double edge safety razor again, just like my Dad used to use. (I guess the old man was onto something.) And I definitely recommend switching to a shave brush and a good shave soap too. It takes a little finesse to get the lather perfect, but it beats any shaving cream/gel by a long shot. Also of note, the "long handle" really is only about as long as a normal disposable razor, so keep that in mind if you're looking at other double edge razors. And of course German attention to detail and quality is a desireable feature of this razor too.

Bottom line: Quality razor that should last a lifetime!

I've been working my way up from an electric razor 20 years ago to this, and it's been getting better all the time. I used to use the Gillette 3-blade disposables, and that was okay. Relatively smooth, and the wife was happy.

Now, having switched to the Merkur #180, I'm never going back to any cartridge - evah. Too expensive, too many ingrown hairs, and now I know my shave wasn't nearly as close as it could have been.

I tried the #180 last week with some Derby blades, and the first couple times were not too great. I was very delicate with how I held the handle, didn't apply pressure during strokes, etc. Now I'm a bit more confident, I bought a good badger-hair brush and some decent soap, and things have gotten much better.

My face is smoother than ever, it's easier to shave in the morning due to less overnight growth, and the wife is even happier. Smoove, baby.

Here are a few tips I'd recommend if you're starting to use a DE razor:

1. Exfoliate just before shaving - I use St. Ives with pulverized walnut shells. When I don't exfoliate first, the shave isn't as close.

2. Shave in the shower. It's more difficult to master, but a good mirror is invaluable until you get the hang of it. Shower shaving is great because the steam softens your beard, the razor is easier to clean, and when you're done there's no residue behind ears, etc.

3. Alcohol-based after shave is for chumps. Get a good after shave that moisturizes. Amazon has tons of them for sale - check the reviews. I like the products by Geo F. Trumper.

4. Don't be afraid to pursue the closest shave possible. Having a babybutt-smooth face doesn't make you a metrosexual - it's evidence of a real man who knows how to take care of himself. If you also have a spray-on tan, well then it's time for some introspection.

Most broads like a smooth face. Enjoy.

I decided to ditch the Sensor/Mach 3/Fusion thing and get into the double-edge "safety razor" rerto thing and I've been looking for just the pefect razor. I tried a vintage Gillette Slim Boy adjustatale which was pretty good--except that the "adjustment" dial has no discernible effect--and a new off-brand Parker which is just so-so. Now this.

The good thing. It's very clean stainless steel with a nice long handle. It feels good to hold.

But: It doesn't shave close at all! The problem is that when you tighten the handle all the way, the blade is pressed down so hard against the body of the razor that it's not able to really reach the hair. I found that if I unscrew the handle slightly and let the blade rise up a little bit, it shaves really close. But then you're dealing with a loose razor head and it seems like you're risking slashing yourself.

Also, the three-piece razor is much less convenient than the Gillette butterfly system, both for changing blades and for rinsing the blade. Also, if you want to keep track of which edge of the blade you are shaving with, so that you can use one side for a few shaves and then switch to the other, you can't tell which side you're using--The razor is completely symmetrical with no way to differentiate either side. I used a magic marker to mark one side, but it washes off. Seems to me they should place some sort of permanent mark or logo to distinguish the two sides.

Finally, for what they charge, Merkur is evidently too damn cheap to give you ANYTHING extra. No case or pouch or even a plastic cover to protect the razor head if you're throwing this thing in a kit or taking it somewhere. Heck, even a disposable Bic comes with a cover for the head!

Bottom line: OK, but Merkur could have easily made it better.

Pros: Provides close shave with no skin irritation; low total cost-of-ownership.

Cons: Trouble getting to a few spots on my face; must "unlearn" some bad shaving habits.

I have been searching for the "perfect" shave for as long as I can remember, and have probably tried most, if not all, of the products out there. My facial hair is quite tough, but my skin is very sensitive, which makes shaving something that I usually dread. I bought my Merkur a few months ago, and after a short learning curve, my skin is a lot happier.

I was somewhat surprised that it did not come with any instructions, so the first time I used it, I was very disapointed. After some internet searching and a little experimentation, I found that holding the razor at about a 30 degree angle and NOT PRESSING DOWN were two keys to getting a good shave. Other tips: use Merkur blades (much cheaper than Mach III or Fusion blades, and last longer as well), a good gel (I like Aveeno Ultra-Calming), and take your time. My best results seem to come by shaving with the grain the first time, then going sideways or even lightly against the grain a second time.

Additional info: after expressing my dislike of my thinning-on-top hair, my (cute) barberette talked me into letting her shave my head. While I visit her every so often for a professional shave, I have also found that the Merkur gets my head as smooth as my face.

Conclusion: when Gillette comes out with their 6, 7, or 8-blade razor, I'll just laugh like I do when I see a Fusion commercial.

I have been shaving with Merkur for more than 30 years. I bought my first Merkur in 1978 when I was in college; I still have it. It is the slant-bar model with the shorter handle. I have reviewed it on its page.

The big difference between the slant bar and this straight bar model is that the slant bar puts a torsional twist on the blade, causing it to shave very, very close. As I am now in my mid fifties and on aspirin and Plavix, a couple of years ago I purchased this long handle straight bar model.

This Merkur exhibits the same ultra-high quality that my seventies Merkur does. As stated in that review, after Heaven knows how many thousands of shaves, it could be repackaged and sold as new. For buyers out there now wondering about the expense, my older Merkur has had no bubbling, no separation, no dulling of the chrome finish. I see no reason with this newer one to expect anything different.

I have seen other reviewers grouse about the mechanism on this Merkur; it's why I bought one in the first place! I learned how to shave on the traditional Gillette of the sixties with those little 'bay doors' that open on the top, then close down on the blade. The problem with those razor mechanisms is that they tend to accumulate dried soap or shaving cream around the mechanism, and it's nearly impossible to get them truly clean. That's why people just pitched them back then every year or two and bought another one. This Merkur has a one-piece top that unscrews completely. The blade is set on the main body, the top is replaced and screwed down. While it may not provide mechanical entertainment and appear high-tech, what it does is allow the user to simply take the top off and use a toothbrush or other firm brush with a little dishwashing liquid and it's back to new again. Perhaps I shouldn't say so, but I've periodically just tossed the two parts in the silverware part of my dishwasher and it does a great job also! The other advantage to this one-piece top is that cut hair can't clog it. I use a twin-blade on occasion when I'm camping; if I don't shave for a few days, hair will get in those tiny recesses and it's near-impossible to rinse or blow out. I can cut a multiday beard with this, just loosen the top a little and all the hair rinses away. I brought up this hair trapping to a friend who is using one of those umpteen-blade things. He went home and looked, and sure enough, he had trapped hair in his. Couldn't be hygienic!

I have used just about every brand of blade available to me, including the drugstore brands. It is true that investing in better blades will certainly bring rewards in longer blade life and less beard friction. I won't join the Merkur versus Feather debate; I have both and have found them to be equally capable.

It has cost me roughly $1 per year to enjoy the quality of a Merkur razor for 30+ years. I can't estimate how much money I have saved by using double edge blades over all those little plastic cartridge things, and also saved filling landfills with them. If you want a razor for the long run, this one will stick with you.

By the way, when that 5-blade Gillette came out, a friend bought one for me for grins. Felt like I was sandpapering the beard off, irritated the hell out of my skin, and that was that-

Short review: This razor is awesome. Buy it. Now!

Long review.

I got this product because I was sick of three things: paying too much for the cartridges, polluting the environment and getting ingrown hairs. I paid less than $40 for the razor and for the top of the line Merkur blades and I am never going back to any multiblade cartridge system ever again. Extremely well made Merkur blades run me about 50 cents while my next door general store sells Mach-3 cartridges for around 2.50 dollars per unit. Cheaper blades are available for 9 cents and just the math alone makes this razor a no-brainer.

Then there is the great shave factor. Merkur blades are quite sharp and you really feel the edge dragging against your skin. This allows me to change the angle of shave without pressing on the razor like I used to do with Gillette Mach 3. The fact that there is only one blade makes this razor clog less and I can use thicker shaving creams that add to the quality of shaves. Also one blade means less irritation and my sensitive skin thanks me for that.

Finally, razor blades can be recycled without any issues. Since the razor is hard to clog I go with heavier shaving creams and soaps that are not coming out of an aerosol bottle. Minimal packaging leads to less pollution. So does the fact that a good brush can reduce the waste of shaving products which now last longer.

Cheap. Reliable. Environment friendly. What else do you need?

I read a review where somebody did not like the razor because it did not offer a good shaving angle. The person tried to alter the angle by unscrewing the head of the razor -- bad move! This is a non-adjustable razor and it means that for the best results you have to screw the head all the way down. If you're looking for an adjustable version of Merkur, they're available on Amazon as well. I appreciate the simplicity of this particular model and that's why I did not get an adjustable one. But check out Merkur Solingen Futur Adjustable Double Edge Safety Razor if you want a razor that lets you change the angle of the blade.

Finally, I cannot stress enough the importance of other accessories that will make this razor even more enjoyable.

1. Get shaving soap or think shaving cream. Search for O.C. Bigelow, Taylor of Old Bond Street or Proraso on Amazon. These companies make really terrific shaving creams. If you like soaps, check out Colonel Conk. Many of these products costs less than $15 but don't be fooled: They are great. The Art of Shaving has guts to overcharge for its shaving products but they are not bad either.

2. Invest money in a nice shaving brush. Too bad Amazon does not offer brushes by Rooney or Vulfix. A silvertip or super badger will run you for $100+ but it is well worth it. With proper care it will last for years without shedding. If you opt for cheaper brands sold at grocery stores or Bath and Body, you'll end up replacing them quite soon. Get good stuff from the very beginning and save some money. I know, spending $100 on a shave brush sounds a bit Wall Street in this economy, but the fact is that even with all the investment today you'll end up saving money in a long run.

3. Learn how to recycle the blades and get only the best ones you can afford. Merkur leads the pack for me.

Oh, and welcome to the world of real shaving. Next step -- straight razors.

This razor is amazing and very attractive to boot!
I had another razor purchased from Amazon, a Weishi, but it was all wrong. Unlike that product, this razor has smooth edges all over, perfect for a lady who wishes to shave in small places (don't make me explain) where an exposed edge would potentially cut, maim, or cause severe bodily injury...or at the very least catch me off guard. After the other product broke (a couple months after purchase!), I spent the extra few bucks to go with this model. Wish I had done it much, much sooner.
The weight balance is perfect, I do not have to press down on my skin when shaving my legs (as I do at a nearly horizontal angle), and the weight of the razor adds the perfect amount to get the closest shave. I've cut myself exactly one time using this razor, on the knee. It was not even a bad cut.
The razor blade is replaced by unscrewing the handle from the top, which I do by holding the short sides of the razor firmly. It's easy and painless.

The included razor blade is of unmatched quality. I have used it for a couple months and it is still sharp and not rusted.

The shave is close and accurate. On very densely populated areas (or, very hairy, lol? ew?), I may have to shave twice over with the original blade still in it, but considering the amount of time I've spent using it, that's hardly a set back. I've not experienced ingrown hairs or any other problematic symptoms of shaving intimate areas with this razor.
The main reason to buy one of these, though, is for the cost savings. Even with new blades, they cost so much less than the mainstream razor brands it is not even funny! And imagine how much less waste is generated from the use of razors like this, over disposables. I switched over for life and no plans to switch back.
The only thing it is lacking is a razor case for travel. Other than that, perfect, as far as sharp object go!