Best safety razor according to Reddit (2026)
Safety razors are the quintessential Buy It For Life product, and r/wicked_edge has given beginners the same two names for over a decade. The razor lasts forever; the ongoing cost is a few pence per blade instead of pounds per cartridge.
This guide summarises that consensus. Scores reflect how consistently each razor is recommended to newcomers.
Reddit's top 5
What Reddit says
The Merkur 34C and Edwin Jagger DE89 are the two answers to nearly every "which razor should I start with" thread. Both are mild, meaning they are forgiving of bad technique, and both last decades. The choice usually comes down to handle preference: short and heavy (Merkur) or longer and lighter (Edwin Jagger).
The Rockwell 6C is recommended to people who want one razor for life. Its swappable base plates let you start mild and go more aggressive as your technique improves. The Henson AL13 is the newer favourite for people who want the smoothest possible learning curve, at the cost of some efficiency on coarse hair.
Beyond the razor, r/wicked_edge is emphatic that blades matter more than the razor. Buy a sampler pack; Astra, Personna and Feather come up most.
How to choose
If you have never used a double-edge razor, buy a 34C or DE89, a blade sampler, and a cheap shaving soap. Only consider adjustables once you know whether you want more aggression.
Frequently asked
Will I cut myself switching from cartridges?
Probably a little at first. Use no pressure, keep the angle around 30 degrees and shave with the grain until you are comfortable. Mild razors like the ones above minimise the learning curve.
Which blades should I buy?
A sampler pack. Blades vary more between people than razors do. Astra Superior Platinum and Personna are common starting points; Feather blades are the sharpest and best left until later.
Is an adjustable razor worth it for a beginner?
The Rockwell 6C is the exception because it starts mild and grows with you. Most other adjustables are better bought once you know what you want.