The Merkur 20C is one of the newest designs by the product brand. Unlike its predecessors, it has a shorter handle and a heavier head. These features make the razor safer and provide better control when shaving. A shorter handle requires less effort and allows easy maneuvering of the razor for wet shaving. The heavier head reduces the amount of pressure needed and can be applied when shaving. This means that the aggressiveness of the razor is reduced so that you can more pressure without getting yourself cut. Previous designs of DE safety razors usually have the weight on the entire frame of the razor. Although the balance is increased this way, the head can be easily tilted at an angle that usually causes cuts and nicks.
Another unique feature about this razor is its texture. In order for razors to provide a firm grip, the handle has to be textured with indentions or lines. The handle of this razor has grooves or knurling that spiral around a black anodized aluminum. At base of the razor and below the head, the handle is made from steel with chrome finishing. This gives the razor a very elegant and sleek appearance. Usually, the handle of a razor is covered with grooves or indentions and everything looks like shiny silver. The Merkur 20C is a breath of fresh air when you’ve been used to seeing the classic designs of DE safety razors.
Rating:
- Quality: 10/10
The razor is made from Germany using stainless steel and chrome coating. It doesn’t only look good, but it’s also smart and hefty. It’s expected to last for a lifetime, bearing the Merkur brand.
- User Friendly: 9/10
The problem with classically designed DE safety razors is that they can be extremely hard to use especially if you are newbie. Merkur has found a way to make this razor more user friendly. By increasing only the weight of the head, its aggressiveness is lessened.
- Grip: 10/10
The knurling of the handle has a classic pattern. It ensures that the razor will not slip during wet shaving. What’s new about the handle is the base of the knurling, a black aluminum.
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- Ease of Blade Replacement: 9/10
The razor separates into three pieces when the head is unscrewed from the handle. You do this when you want to replace the blade of the razor. It’s not the easiest way to do a blade replacement. The easier way is when the head just opens up when the handle is twisted. This is called the “butterfly doors.” It’s quite common among classic safety razors. This mechanism might lessen the effort and hazards involve in replacing a blade but it also has a disadvantage. Usually, it’s the bottom of the handle that needs to be twisted to open or close the head of the razor. With constant twisting, the knob becomes loose which in turn makes the butterfly doors loose as well.
- Aggressiveness: 8/10
Users who have used other DE razors before the Merkur 20C will really notice how less aggressive it is. Of course, if you were expecting that this razor would be as aggressive as the previous one you’d had, then you’re really going to be a bit disappointed. Once you realize that the aggressiveness was toned down for a reason, then you’ll bet used to it and even be glad about it.
- Adjustability: 8/10
You can use different standard DE razor blades.
- Balance: 9/10
The balanced is reduced since its much lighter but it makes up for the ease maneuvering thanks to its heavier head.
- Value for Money: 10/10
Considering its modern design and other classic elements, the razor is still priced at less than $40.00 which makes it a regularly-priced DE safety razor.
- Overall: 9/10
This razor bring the modern to the old-fashioned and the classic. Merkur has taken in some user feedback and made this razor more user-friendly but still at the same regular price.
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