Parker 90R – Long Handle Butterfly Open DE Razor Review

The Parker 90R is quite different from most of the Parker razors because of its handle. Unlike the regular razors that have 3-inch or shorter handles, this one has a 4-inch handle. There is much debate on whether long handles make the razor better than razors that have shorter handles. Some product brands like Parker believes that razors with longer handles make the razor more effective. That is why the newer razors they are producing tend to be longer than other brands. On the other hand, the manufacturers who think shorter is better tend to create newer designs of razors that sport shorter handles.

The theory behind the handle is based on the level of ease that it provides during shaving. Short and stubby handles are proven to be very maneuverable and offer better control. On the other hand, long and thin handles are easy on the hands and very stable during shaving. The debate is whether control and maneuverability is better than stability and ease. Ultimately, it all depends on the user – how you want your razor to function.

The other parts of the razor are similar to that of any regular Parker razor. The head opens up through the twist-to-open mechanism. This mechanism is very common among DE safety razors. At the bottom of the handle, you twist the knob to open the handle so that you charge another razor blade.

The frame of the razor is made from solid brass. The alloy is the common material of construction for most Parker razors. Other brands make use of stainless steel. The two alloys have different densities which means they give the razors different weights. Brass is heavier which results to razors that are more balanced. Stainless steel is lighter but it is slight more durable brass.

Parker razors also have that dark and matte look to them. This is because of the nickel finish that is used to coat the razors. It gives the razor a more traditional look and a rougher texture. The texture of the handle is important since it affects how secure you can grip the razor when doing wet shaving.

  • Parker 90R - Long-Handle-Butterfly-Open-Double-Edge-Safety-Razor-and-5-Shark-Super-Chrome-Blades-View2
    Parker 90R - Long-Handle-Butterfly-Open-Double-Edge-Safety-Razor-and-5-Shark-Super-Chrome-Blades-View2

View Customer Reviews on Amazon.com

Rating:

  • Quality: 10/10

There might be better material for construction for safety razors but the combination of brass and nickel is good enough to make the razor last for more than one generation of shaver.

  • User Friendly: 8/10

Double edge safety razors are popular among seasoned shavers and people who want to save a lot of money when it comes to razors. These people have learned to use the razor properly. For first time users of DE razors, it’s going to be quite difficult and would require a lot of time.

  • Grip: 10/10

The handle of razor has grooves and a rough texture to provide a sure grip.

  • Ease of Blade Replacement: 10/10

There are few ways on how to open the head of a razor to replace the blade but the twist-to-open mechanism is considered to be the most convenient.

  • Aggressiveness: 9/10

The razor comes with 5 Shark Super Chrome blades which are quite aggressive. With the proper use of the razor and using the Shark blades, you can achieve a close shave similar to that of barbershop shaves.

  • Adjustability: 8/10

You can’t adjust how the head tilts and how much of the blade is exposed.

  • Balance: 10/10

The brass frame provides the razor with a good weight and good balance.

  • Value for Money: 10/10

For just around $32, the razor is very affordable.

  • Overall: 9/10

Overall, the razor is fit for any person who is looking for a classic razor that functions well and provides ease and stability when shaving.

Leo Flemming

About Leo Flemming

As a retired barber Leo has experience with all types of shavers, but his favorite has always been the classic safety razor. An avid collector of the elegant razors Leo is looking forward to sharing all of his knowledge with us, while he continues to help men stay well groomed and clean shaven. When Leo is not writing for us, you can often find him indulging his love of antiques at the local shops.

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