Merkur "Futur" Safety Razor, Satin Finish Product Description:
- Double Edge Design
- Adjustable razor blade angle
- Beautiful Satin finish
- Gives a close, comfortable shave
- Made in Germany
Product Description
Merkur's adjustable "Futur" Safety Razor allows you to change the angle of the blade inside the razor head - by twisting the upper part of the handle - to find the setting that gives you the closest, most comfortable shave. With adjustable razors you can re-adjust the angle as needed to maintain the optimum shave. 4 1/4". Chrome plate with a satin finish. Made in Germany.
Customer Reviews
Most helpful customer reviews
484 of 494 people found the following review helpful.
4.5 Stars - Definitely worth the money
By Matt
I am a new-comer to the D/E world, but have been looking long and hard for something that shaves this close! I am only 26, but ever since I started shaving (around 16) I had always been unsatisfied. Either by paying too much for cartridge replacements (mach3, fusion, quattro, disposable, etc....) or by the tearing feeling I would get from an electric. I've probably owned every disposable on the market, and 5 different electrics. Not that I loved shaving, I just was always hoping the next product would actually work!Here enters the idea of straight razors and double edge (d/e) razors. I first heard of it a long time ago, but as with many people my age I thought the newer products were surely better because they have by and large replaced any idea of D/E's.Anyone looking at this razor has probably already done some research, that's how I found it. And it seems, that's how many other people have come across Merkur as well. To that end I will try and keep my story short and bullet-point my original (pre-purchase) concerns and my afterthoughts now of owning this razor for 3 months.Pre-Purchase Concerns:- I thought that it really couldn't be that much closer than a disposable.- I thought it was too much money up-front (even though the long term costs were lower, it was difficult to decide since I had no point of comparison)- I was worried about how long it would take to shave. I don't have much time in the morning as I generally trade it for as much sleep as possible.Post-Purchase Experiences:Okay, so to start I have to say that this razor as with many other D/E's will do a GREAT job on your face! My concerns above were quelled after a couple of weeks using the Futur. Your technique is the MOST important part of shaving with a D/E and I guarantee that you will be frustrated for a month or two (learning curve dependent). I walked out after shaving a few times with at least 20 little cuts all over my neck. Since I'm assuming that you've already done some research, I'll also assume that you've heard that story before - and let me assure you... it will happen to you.Despite that unpleasant experience, once I finally started to get the technique down, my shaves became better and better! They've been getting so good lately that I can't wait to hit the shower and shave! It is one of the most satisfying rituals I've come across. I tell all of my friends about it, trying to convert everyone that I see. Using a D/E truly is the best way to shave... although it will take you longer in the morning to do it properly.When I was using an electric, or disposable cartridge type, I could generally shave in 5 minutes. Slather on some cheap shaving cream, and tug away with your mach3. To get a really good shave now, it takes me about 20 minutes (start to finish). My neck is the part that takes the longest. I have hair that looks like a hurricane and grows in all sorts of directions which makes it very difficult to shave and not cut yourself. Despite the time consumed shaving I still manage to get all my "zzz's" in the morning. That's because the shave is soo close I can shave at night before going to bed. When I wake up in the morning it's still as smooth as ever!The first time you experience that is one amazing moment of jubilation. And after, you'll never go back.Overall, I would recommend this razor to just about anyone looking to buy. BUT, this razor is not the end-all be-all. It's fantastic, but the classic Merkur HD style is just as good (for 1/2 the price). Even though it's adjustable, I essentially keep it at the same setting all of the time.Here are some other thoughts if you are considering getting into D/E shaving. The up-front cost can be expensive as mentioned earlier, but it is worth it. Below I've listed (in order) where you should put your money first, the products at the bottom can be upgraded later and these first ones are good enough to get you started:#1) Brush! (This is the most important part of wet-shaving). You may think the razor is more important, but it's not. You don't need a $500 brush, but about $50 - $80 will get you a very respectable brush from Vulvix. Make sure it's a Badger hair brush. And within the badger brushes some people claim that silver-tip badger hair is top of the line (it's just hair from a certain part of the badger).#2) Razor#3) Post-Shaving Cream. Here is where many people cheap-out. The old train of though goes that an alcohol based aftershave or something off the shelf at a supermarket (read Nivea for Men, etc.) is fine. This has not been the case for me. Especially while you are learning, you'll want a good after-shave that will help reduce the redness and irritation you'll experience. Let me remind you, that once you get your technique down - you won't see anymore razor bumps!For the cream, buy Geo Trumper's Skin Food. It's nearly $30 a bottle, but well worth it. Don't chicken out, you face will love you for it!#4) Shaving Cream. I've been using Proraso here - it's cheap, $9, and will last a long time. Go for this while you're learning. After your first tube of this you should be getting pretty good - then you can buy some of Geo Trumper's shaving cream tubs. :)Now that you have those products selected, here are a few more that you are going to need. These are all cheap and often overlooked, get them - it will make your life easier.#1) 'My Nik is Sealed' (This is much better than a stiptic pencil, and won't leave any white residue on your face. Stops bleeding from cuts and scraps quick. Especially needed while learning. Note: The product name is actually "My Nik is sealed", just for clarification.#2) Large coffee mug. A wider mug is better as this is what you should mix your later in. Check out the following link from "Mantic59"http://www.youtube.com/mantic59for some very educational videos. I watched his whole series and it wasvery very helpful.#3) Grapeseed Oil. Yes I know that sounds odd, but it works wonders if you oil up your face before applying lather. This helps me so that the razor glides over my skin easier and reduces cuts. You can buy it at your local supermarket and it should be cheap. Also, don't substitute olive oil or another oil. There is something about Grapeseed oil that works better than the rest.#4) Hydrocortisone 1% Cream. This should be used sparingly if ever - I don't believe it is good to apply to your skin on a regular basis. It's benefit? It will remove almost all razor burn within an hour, so if you've really chopped up your face and need to go to work or on a date... it can be a lifesaver!#5) Mens Grooming Tweezers. Not necessary but helpful to get out in-grown hairs (as they occur).All right folks - I hope this was informative and helpful. Good luck in your purchase - you will not be disappointed if you stick with it.Happy Shaving!
63 of 66 people found the following review helpful.Sometimes Older is Better
By Yvonne
I have heavy, thick beard growth, and sensitive skin. Bad combination. After twenty years trying to get a clean, close shave that didn't rip my face apart, my wife told me about her father's safety razor given to him in WWII that he used the rest of his life. After all the latest multi-blade, lubricated techincal wonders, I at first poo-pooed the idea. But now a year after starting to use the Merkur, I am thrilled.The one caution I would offer is to do your research and follow the proper technique, it does make a difference. But that done, this is the cleanest, smoothest shave that I have gotten. Oh, and I do use a brush and shave soap, but have had equally good results with the can stuff while traveling.The final factor is the difference between the price. The blades I was using were a dollar a peice and lasted at best 3 days. These are closer to .50 and easily go 2 weeks to a month, rotating daily and ocasionally flipping the blade.As to the Mekur specifically, it is extremely well made with a great heft that feels steady and sure in the hand. I chose it for the adjustability, and it has been worth it. It adjusts the angle of the blade where it meets your face, and I will assure you that it is important.The only drawbacks I have noted, is the size of the shaver head, and having to pay more attention to the blade. Being used to slim plastic heads, the size and shape of the shave head and the more exposed blade takes getting used to. Reaching up for the mustache, I had a problem catching the edge of my nostrils. When a safety razor gets you, it tends to be a bit more severe. But I have recently learned the trick of pulling my nose out of the way opposite the side I am shaving, and haven't gotten a nick since. But these are slight issues and more than offset by the benefits of the shave.Guys, I really reccomend it. It has turned a morning chore into a pleasure and an art. The ritual of the hot, brushed-on lather and smooth, careful shave really gives a nice little taste of luxury in the morning.
64 of 68 people found the following review helpful.A Close Shave From the Old School
By Matthew Burkholder
Buying yourself a double edged razor kit may seem a little old fashioned to some. What with the proliferation of multitudinous electric models and the domination of the market by 'shaving systems' meant to be disposed of, this ancient technology may seem like an anachronism at best. Why should you buy a Merkur razor instead of picking up a Schick or Gilette at Wal-Mart and calling it a day?These Merkurs are truly built to last. The razor is quite heavy, something the picture cannot possibly convey, and as a result it glides across your face without having to 'tug'. Sure, the initial cost seems pretty steep, but you will literally never have to buy another razor in your life. The blades for your new razor will probably cost between $2 and $5. Compare that with the exorbitant prices of the American name brands and you will instantly see the benefits over an extended period of time.This model has a rotating head, allowing the user to expose as much or as little of the blade as he considers prudent. The bar that gives the safety razor it's name will be adjusted to offer more or less protection against the blade, so that on a setting of 1 a novice is unlikely to cut himself even if he is trying to. Please note I said ROTATING, not swiveling! Should you choose to switch you should be aware that you will face a slight learning curve, since you are likely used to a blade that 'follows' your face, e.g. the Mach 3. You will need to teach your wrist to swivel instead, and this may feel clumsy at first. It took me about a week to start shaving on auto-pilot, the way I was used to doing with disposables, without having to concentrate specifically on the job in hand. I think I nicked myself twice until I got the hang of it. It's not a seriously difficult change; I only bring it up in the interests of explaining to you what a safety razor can and cannot do.
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