I spent three months testing safety razors after years of wasting money on cartridge refills that cost more each month than my streaming subscriptions. The switch to a double edge safety razor changed my morning routine completely. Less irritation, closer shaves, and blades that cost pennies instead of dollars. If you are looking for the best safety razors for wet shaving in 2026, our team has tested and compared 10 models to find the right one for every budget and experience level.
A safety razor is a single-blade shaving tool with a protective guard that keeps the blade from pressing too deeply into your skin. Unlike multi-blade cartridge razors that tug and pull, a double edge razor cuts hair cleanly in one pass. This means fewer ingrown hairs, less razor burn, and skin that actually feels better after shaving rather than worse.
The razors in this guide range from budget-friendly butterfly models under fifteen dollars to precision-engineered aerospace-grade tools. We tested each one across multiple shaving sessions on different hair types and skin sensitivities. Whether you are a complete beginner or an experienced wet shaver looking to upgrade, this guide covers every option worth considering in 2026.
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Henson Shaving Razor - Mild
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Bambaw Double Edge Safety Razor
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Edwin Jagger DE89BL Chrome
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MERKUR 22C Long Handle
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MUHLE R89 Closed Comb
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MERKUR FUTUR 700 Adjustable
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King C. Gillette Safety Razor
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MERKUR 25C Open Comb
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WEISHI Butterfly Open Long Handle
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BAILI BD179 Butterfly Razor
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Aircraft-Grade Aluminum
30 Degree Blade Angle
1.3 oz
Mild Aggression
The first time I used the Henson Shaving Razor, I understood why people call it the easiest transition from cartridge razors. The 30-degree blade angle is built right into the head, so you do not have to guess at the correct shaving angle. Just hold it flat against your face and let the razor do the work. My first shave with this razor produced zero nicks, which is something I cannot say about most safety razors I tested.
The aircraft-grade aluminum construction keeps this razor remarkably light at just 1.3 ounces. That lightness initially concerned me because I prefer a razor with some weight behind it. But after a week of daily shaving, I realized the precision engineering makes up for the lack of heft. The blade sits rigidly in the head with zero chatter, which is what prevents the skin irritation that plagued me with cartridge razors.
The open channel design is one of those features you do not appreciate until you use it. Hair and shaving cream pass straight through without clogging. If you have ever used a multi-blade cartridge and watched it jam up with hair mid-shave, you will understand why this matters. Rinsing the Henson takes about two seconds under running water.
Henson brings over 22 years of aerospace machining experience to this razor, and it shows in every detail. The blade alignment is consistent every single time you load it. This consistency is what makes it so beginner-friendly and why it earns our Editor's Choice. Pair it with Astra or Feather blades rather than the included RK blades for the best experience.
This razor is ideal for anyone with sensitive skin who has struggled with razor burn from cartridge razors. The built-in angle makes it perfect for first-time safety razor users who want zero guesswork. It is also great for people who shave daily and want a quick, reliable tool that never clogs. If you appreciate precision engineering and are willing to invest in quality, the Henson delivers.
Shavers who prefer the feel of a heavy razor may find the 1.3-ounce weight too light. If you have very thick, coarse facial hair, the mild aggression level might require multiple passes to get a clean shave. Experienced wet shavers who enjoy dialing in their own angle and pressure might find the Henson too prescriptive.
Metal Construction
Screw-On Head
3.84 oz
#1 Best Seller
The Bambaw holds the number one best-seller spot in safety razors for good reason. With over 20,000 reviews, this razor has been tested by more people than any other model on this list. I found the weight and balance immediately comfortable at 3.84 ounces, and the screw-on head makes blade changes simple once you get the hang of it.
What impressed me most about the Bambaw was how smooth the shave felt on my neck, which is my most sensitive area. The closed comb design keeps the blade exposure mild enough for beginners while still delivering a close result. After three weeks of daily use, my skin condition improved noticeably compared to what I experienced with cartridge razors.
The two-piece construction with the screw-on head is straightforward to disassemble for cleaning. Some users mention a learning curve on the first shave, and I agree with that assessment. My first attempt took about twice as long as a cartridge shave. By the end of the first week, though, I was shaving just as fast with better results.
Bambaw offers this razor in 14 different finishes including silver, black, rose gold, rainbow, and bamboo-accented versions. The eco-friendly angle is genuine because this metal razor replaces years of plastic disposable razors. A pack of 100 replacement blades costs roughly ten dollars and lasts most people well over a year. That is the real value proposition.
This is the best starting point for anyone curious about wet shaving who does not want to spend a lot to try it. The combination of low cost, huge community validation, and solid performance makes it a safe first purchase. It works well for both men and women, and the 14 style options let you pick something that fits your personality.
If you want a razor with a butterfly mechanism for the easiest blade changes, the Bambaw uses a screw-on head that takes a few extra seconds. Shavers who need a long handle for body shaving or have very large hands might find the 4.53-inch length a bit compact. Some users with extremely sensitive skin report that they still experience irritation despite the mild design.
Solid Brass Core
Triple-Plated Chrome
2.65 oz
Made in Sheffield England
The Edwin Jagger DE89BL feels like a proper tool the moment you pick it up. Machined from solid brass and triple-plated in chrome, this razor has the kind of weight and balance that makes you understand why traditional wet shaving has such a devoted following. The DE8 razor head is expertly engineered to provide a mild, forgiving shave that still delivers barbershop-level closeness.
I tested the chrome-lined variant, which is the most popular among the 14 available handle styles. The fit and finish are flawless with no visible seams or rough edges. During testing, I noticed that the blade exposure is very consistent across the entire cutting surface, which translates to an even shave without hot spots. Over 7,600 reviewers agree that this razor produces some of the closest shaves you can get from a safety razor.
The two-piece sandwich design means you unscrew the handle from the head to change blades. It takes about 10 seconds once you know the motion. The closed comb configuration keeps things mild and comfortable, making this an excellent choice for daily shaving. I particularly enjoyed using it with Astra Superior Platinum blades for a smooth, irritation-free experience.
The main drawback is the handle length. At under four inches, some users with larger hands find it a bit cramped. I have medium-sized hands and found it comfortable, but if you are used to longer cartridge razor handles, the adjustment takes a few days. The chrome handle can also get slippery with shaving cream on your hands, so a knurled or lined variant might be worth considering.
If you want a razor that looks as good as it performs and are willing to invest in proper British craftsmanship, the DE89BL delivers. It is ideal for daily face shavers who want barbershop quality at home. The mild, consistent blade exposure makes it suitable for beginners who are serious about learning proper technique. It also makes a thoughtful gift because of the premium presentation.
Shavers with very large hands may find the handle too short for comfortable control. If you need a razor that comes with blades included, the DE89BL ships without any. Those who prefer a butterfly mechanism for quick blade swaps will need to look at twist-to-open models instead. If budget is your primary concern, the Bambaw offers similar shave quality for less.
Brass Knurled Handle
Matte Chrome
2.15 oz
Three-Piece Design
The MERKUR 22C is one of those razors that the wet shaving community consistently recommends to newcomers, and after testing it, I understand why. The long knurled brass handle provides excellent grip even with wet, soapy hands. The three-piece design disassembles completely for thorough cleaning, and the matte chrome finish has a understated quality that grows on you.
One reviewer mentioned going years without a single cut using this razor, and while I cannot match that claim, my experience was similarly positive. The closed comb design with a generous blade gap allows soap and cut hair to drain away cleanly. This means fewer clogs and a more consistent cutting path across each stroke.
The blade angle on the 22C is slightly shallower than some other razors, which took me about three shaves to adjust to. Once I found the right angle, the shaves became remarkably smooth and irritation-free. The weight at 2.15 ounces sits in that sweet spot where the razor has enough heft to do the work without feeling heavy in your hand.
Made in Germany, the build quality is exactly what you expect from Merkur. The brass core with chrome finish is durable and should last decades. Standard double edge blades cost just pennies each, making this razor incredibly economical over time. Many users report their Merkur razors lasting seven years or more with daily use.
This razor suits beginners who want a forgiving, mild shave from a respected German brand. The long handle works well for shavers with larger hands or those who use their razor for body shaving in addition to face shaving. If you value durability and want a tool that will last for years without replacing, the 22C is a solid investment in your shaving routine.
If you need the most aggressive cut possible for thick, fast-growing stubble, the mild nature of the 22C might leave you wanting more. Shavers who prefer a butterfly mechanism over a three-piece design should look at the WEISHI or BAILI models instead. The matte chrome finish, while functional, lacks the visual polish of some competitors.
Chrome Finish
Closed Comb
German Engineered
Multiple Finish Options
The MUHLE R89 occupies a sweet spot in the safety razor market where quality meets everyday usability. Made in Germany with chrome plating that withstands constant shower exposure without rusting, this razor is built to be your daily driver for years. The classic closed comb design provides a gentle shaving experience that leaves skin feeling smooth without the harshness.
During my testing period, I appreciated how the R89 glided across my jawline and neck without catching or pulling. The special blade angle design creates an efficient cutting path that requires less pressure than many competitors. One user described the result as leaving their face smooth as a baby, and while that is a cliche, it is accurate for this razor.
MUHLE is a member of the Environmental Alliance of Saxony, and their commitment to sustainability shows in the completely plastic-free construction. The razor comes in several finishes including chrome, black chrome, and rose gold. Each variant uses the same R89 head geometry, so you get the same shave quality regardless of which style you choose.
The closed tooth comb design includes a gap behind the foam edge that prevents soap and hair build-up during your shave. This small design detail makes a noticeable difference during longer shaving sessions because you spend less time rinsing and more time shaving. For anyone with sensitive skin, the mild aggression level minimizes the risk of post-shave irritation.
Daily shavers who want a luxurious but practical razor will find the R89 hits all the right notes. It is excellent for people with sensitive skin who need a gentle touch. The chrome finish options make it a great choice if you want your shaving tool to look elegant on the bathroom counter. If you shave every morning and want reliability, the R89 delivers consistent results.
Shavers with very coarse, fast-growing facial hair might find the R89 too mild for efficient cutting, especially if you skip a day between shaves. The handle length may not suit those who prefer longer grips for body shaving. If you are on a strict budget, the King C. Gillette offers similar shave quality at a lower cost.
6 Adjustable Settings
Brass Construction
3.36 oz
Snap-On Cap
The MERKUR FUTUR 700 is the razor I reach for when I want complete control over my shaving experience. The adjustable dial offers six progressive blade gap settings, from a gentle setting 1 that feels like a mild closed comb razor all the way up to setting 6 that handles multi-day stubble with authority. This versatility means one razor can adapt to every shaving situation you encounter.
At 3.36 ounces, the FUTUR is one of the heaviest razors in this lineup, and that weight works in your favor. You barely need to apply any pressure because the razor's mass does most of the cutting work for you. I started on setting 2 for the first week and gradually worked up to setting 4 for my preferred balance of closeness and comfort. The snap-on cap makes blade loading faster than most three-piece designs.
The matte chrome finish over brass construction gives this razor a premium, understated look. Multiple reviewers mention using their FUTUR for body shaving as well as face shaving, and the adjustable settings make it genuinely versatile for different hair types across the body. Women in particular have praised the FUTUR for leg and underarm shaving when paired with the right blade.
The biggest drawback is the smooth handle that offers almost no grip when wet. I found myself having to dry my hands before adjusting the settings or the razor would slip. The blade changing process also requires more care than a butterfly mechanism because you are handling the blade directly during loading. This is not a razor I would hand to someone on their first day of wet shaving.
Experienced wet shavers who want one razor that can handle every shaving scenario will love the FUTUR. If you have different hair thickness on your face versus your body, the adjustable settings let you customize the experience for each area. Shavers who prefer a heavy razor that does the work for them will appreciate the solid brass construction. This is also a great choice for people who shave less frequently and need a razor that handles longer stubble effectively.
Beginners should start with a fixed, mild razor like the MERKUR 22C or Henson before moving to an adjustable model. If grip security matters to you, the smooth handle on the FUTUR can be concerning with wet, soapy hands. The higher price point also means it is a significant investment compared to fixed-gap alternatives that deliver excellent results for less money.
Chrome Plated Handle
Closed Comb
3.68 oz
Includes 5 Platinum Blades
The King C. Gillette Safety Razor is essentially a heritage-inspired design based on the original Gillette safety razor concept, produced by Procter and Gamble with modern manufacturing quality. The chrome-plated handle with its patterned surface gives you a classic look that photographs beautifully, and the closed comb head provides the kind of mild, controlled shave that makes beginners feel confident from their first stroke.
I was surprised by how well this razor performed relative to its cost. The shave quality genuinely rivals razors that cost twice as much, particularly when paired with quality blades. The included platinum-coated double edge blades are actually decent, which is unusual for included blades in safety razor kits. The 3.68-ounce weight gives it enough mass to glide smoothly without needing pressure.
The closed comb head design makes this one of the most forgiving razors in our lineup. The blade exposure is minimal, which means fewer nicks and cuts even if your technique is still developing. Over 5,200 reviewers have given this razor a 4.4-star rating, and many specifically mention it as their first safety razor that converted them from cartridges permanently.
The patterned handle surface provides some grip, but I found it still gets slippery when covered in shaving cream. The length and weight of the handle lean toward the heavier side, which some users love and others find unwieldy. If you have used heavy cartridge razors before, the transition will feel natural. If you prefer lightweight tools, consider the Henson instead.
This razor is perfect for anyone who wants brand-name reliability without the premium price tag of Merkur or Edwin Jagger. It makes an excellent first safety razor because the mild closed comb design forgives technique mistakes. If you appreciate the Gillette heritage and want a razor that comes ready to use with included blades, this is a convenient choice that performs above its price class.
Experienced shavers who prefer an aggressive cut may find this razor too mild for their taste, especially if they have thick stubble. Users with smaller hands might find the long handle unwieldy compared to shorter models like the Edwin Jagger DE89. If you need maximum grip security in wet conditions, look for a razor with deeper knurling on the handle.
Open Comb Design
Long Handle
2.4 oz
Brass Chrome Three-Piece
The MERKUR 25C solves a specific problem that most other razors in this guide do not address: it handles thick, dense, and coarse facial hair without clogging. The open comb design exposes more blade and allows hair to pass through the teeth rather than building up on the guard. If you have ever felt like your safety razor was struggling through a few days of growth, the 25C is the answer.
During testing, I let my facial hair grow for four days before shaving with the 25C. Where a closed comb razor would have required multiple careful passes, the open comb on the 25C mowed through the growth in two passes with minimal tugging. The long brass handle gives you plenty of grip length, which is especially helpful when shaving hard-to-reach areas like under the chin and jawline.
Multiple users report using this razor for body shaving with excellent results, particularly on legs and underarms where the longer handle provides better reach. The three-piece construction makes cleaning straightforward, and the German brass and chrome construction is built for longevity. One verified reviewer documented over seven years of daily use with zero issues.
The trade-off with an open comb razor is more blade exposure, which means a more aggressive shave. This is not the razor I would recommend for someone with sensitive skin who shaves daily. But for people who shave every few days or have hair that defeats mild closed comb razors, the 25C fills that niche perfectly. Note that this razor tends to have low stock availability, so grab one when you see it.
Shavers with thick, coarse, or fast-growing facial hair will benefit most from the open comb design. It is excellent for people who skip days between shaves and need a razor that handles longer stubble efficiently. Body shavers who want a long-handled tool for legs and underarms will appreciate the reach and control. If you want one razor for both face and body, the 25C is versatile enough to handle both.
Anyone with sensitive skin who shaves daily should opt for a closed comb razor instead, as the open comb design can be too aggressive for frequent use on delicate skin. Beginners who are still learning technique should start with a milder razor before trying an open comb model. If you prefer a heavier razor with more mass behind the stroke, the hollow brass handle on the 25C may feel too light.
Butterfly TTO Mechanism
Metal Long Handle
2.54 oz
Includes 5 Blades
The WEISHI Butterfly Open razor has been one of the most popular budget safety razors for years, and with nearly 15,000 reviews, it has earned its reputation through sheer volume of user validation. The butterfly twist-to-open mechanism is the easiest blade changing system on this list. Twist the knob at the bottom, the doors open, drop in a blade, twist closed, and you are ready to shave.
I found the shave quality to be solid for the price, though it does not quite match the smoothness of the Edwin Jagger or Merkur razors. The nostalgic long handle at 4.3 inches provides excellent reach, and the overall balance feels right for a beginner transitioning from cartridge razors. Multiple reviewers report their WEISHI lasting over nine years with regular use, which is remarkable at this price point.
The butterfly mechanism worked reliably throughout my testing period with no looseness or wobble developing over time. This is important because a cheap butterfly razor with a loose mechanism will give inconsistent blade exposure and an uneven shave. WEISHI has been making these long enough to get the engineering right.
The included stainless steel blades are functional but not impressive. I recommend picking up a blade sampler pack with different brands to find what works best for your skin and hair type. This is true for any safety razor, but especially important here because the right blade transforms the WEISHI from a decent budget razor into something genuinely enjoyable to use.
This is one of the best safety razors for wet shaving beginners who want the easiest possible blade changing experience. The butterfly mechanism removes any intimidation from the blade loading process. It is also great for budget-conscious shavers who want to try safety razor shaving without a significant investment. If you want a long handle and nostalgic design, the WEISHI delivers both at an unbeatable price.
Shavers who want the smoothest possible shave should look at the Edwin Jagger or MUHLE R89, which offer noticeably better glide and finish quality. The metal handle can get slippery with shaving cream, so if grip security is a priority, consider the MERKUR 22C with its knurled handle instead. If you want a razor that feels premium in your hand, the WEISHI is functional but does not have the heft and polish of more expensive options.
Butterfly TTO Mechanism
Zinc Alloy Chrome
2.47 oz
Includes Travel Case
The BAILI BD179 is the lowest-priced razor in our lineup, and it still manages to include a mirrored travel case alongside the razor itself. The butterfly open mechanism works smoothly for quick blade changes, and the close comb design provides a gentle shave that works well for beginners and people with sensitive skin. At just 2.47 ounces, it is light enough for precise control but heavy enough to let the blade do the work.
Multiple reviewers describe the BAILI as built like a battleship, and I found that assessment accurate. The rust-proof zinc alloy with chrome finish shows no gaps, rough edges, or manufacturing defects. For a razor at this price, the quality control impressed me. The razor handles facial hair, bikini lines, underarms, and leg shaving with equal competence according to user reports.
The included mirrored travel case is a genuine bonus that most competitors do not offer at any price. It protects the razor during travel and gives you a mirror for shaving on the go. This makes the BAILI BD179 an excellent choice as a travel razor even if you use a more premium model at home.
The included platinum blade is functional but nothing special. Like the WEISHI, the BAILI benefits enormously from a blade upgrade. A pack of Astra blades costs just a few dollars and transforms the shaving experience. The close comb design keeps blade exposure minimal, which is why this razor works well for sensitive skin despite its budget positioning.
Anyone looking for the most affordable entry into safety razor shaving should start here. The included travel case makes it perfect for frequent travelers who want a dedicated travel razor. Beginners with sensitive skin will appreciate the mild, close comb design. If you want to try wet shaving without committing much money, the BAILI lets you test the waters with minimal risk.
If you have large hands, the handle on the BAILI may feel too short for comfortable grip during longer shaving sessions. Shavers who want premium build materials like solid brass or aircraft-grade aluminum should look at the Edwin Jagger or Henson models. The included blade quality is below average, so plan to buy replacement blades separately for the best experience.
Picking the right safety razor comes down to understanding a few key factors that determine how the razor will feel and perform. I have broken down the most important considerations to help you match a razor to your specific needs.
Closed comb razors have a solid safety bar that runs along the blade edge. This design is milder, more forgiving, and better for daily shaving on sensitive skin. Open comb razors have teeth along the blade edge that allow more blade exposure and better flow-through for thick hair. If you shave daily and have normal to sensitive skin, go closed comb. If you have coarse hair or shave less frequently, open comb handles the extra growth without clogging.
Blade gap refers to how far the blade sits from the safety bar, and it determines how aggressive the razor feels. A larger gap means more blade contacts the skin, giving a closer shave but requiring more skill. Mild razors like the Henson, Edwin Jagger DE89BL, and MERKUR 22C have smaller gaps that are forgiving for beginners. The MERKUR FUTUR 700 is the only adjustable option in our lineup, letting you dial the gap from mild to aggressive.
The handle affects both comfort and safety. Knurled handles like the MERKUR 22C provide the most secure grip with wet hands. Smooth chrome handles like the King C. Gillette and MERKUR FUTUR look elegant but can slip. Lined and textured handles offer a middle ground. Handle length matters too because longer handles provide better reach for body shaving while shorter handles offer more precision for detailed face work.
Heavier razors do more of the cutting work through their own mass, requiring less pressure from your hand. The MERKUR FUTUR at 3.36 ounces and the Bambaw at 3.84 ounces are the heaviest in our lineup. Lighter razors like the Henson at 1.3 ounces require more technique but offer more control. Most beginners do well with a razor in the 2.5 to 3.5 ounce range.
Forum users on r/wicked_edge consistently say that finding the right blade makes as much difference as choosing the right razor. Blade sampler packs let you test multiple brands before committing to a 100-pack. Popular beginner blades include Astra Superior Platinum for a smooth middle-ground, Feather for sharpness, and Derby Extra for mildness. The blades included with most razors are usually not the best quality, so plan to experiment.
The math on safety razor savings is straightforward. A pack of 100 double edge blades costs roughly eight to twelve dollars, and each blade lasts three to five shaves. That works out to roughly five to fifteen dollars per year on blades. Compare that to cartridge refills that cost fifteen to thirty dollars per month. Most safety razor users recoup their initial razor investment within three to six months.
The Henson Shaving Razor is the best safety razor for beginners because the 30-degree blade angle is built into the head, eliminating the guesswork that makes other razors intimidating. The MERKUR 22C and Bambaw are also excellent beginner options with mild, forgiving blade exposure and affordable prices.
Safety razors provide a closer shave with less irritation because a single sharp blade cuts hair cleanly rather than multiple blades tugging and pulling. They cost significantly less over time since replacement blades cost pennies each versus dollars for cartridge refills. Safety razors are also more environmentally friendly because the metal razor lasts for years and the small metal blades are recyclable.
Choose a closed comb razor with mild blade exposure for your first safety razor. Look for a model with good grip (knurled or textured handle), moderate weight between 2 and 3.5 ounces, and a simple blade loading mechanism like butterfly twist-to-open or two-piece screw-on. The MERKUR 22C, Henson Shaving, and Bambaw are all excellent first razor choices that balance performance with forgiveness for new technique.
A safety razor is a single-blade shaving tool with a protective guard between the blade edge and your skin. It works by holding a standard double edge razor blade at a fixed angle, typically around 30 degrees, so only a small portion of the blade contacts the skin. You use short, light strokes with no pressure, letting the weight of the razor do the cutting work.
Safety razors range from about 14 dollars for budget models like the BAILI BD179 to over 80 dollars for premium options like the Henson Shaving Razor. Most quality safety razors fall between 25 and 50 dollars. Replacement blades cost roughly 8 to 12 dollars for a pack of 100, which lasts most people over a year. This makes safety razors significantly cheaper than cartridge razors over time.
Finding the best safety razors for wet shaving in 2026 comes down to matching the right tool to your experience level and shaving habits. The Henson Shaving Razor earns our top recommendation because its aerospace-precision engineering makes the transition from cartridge razors practically effortless. For value, the Bambaw delivers incredible performance at a price that makes trying wet shaving a no-brainer.
Start with a mild, closed comb razor regardless of which model you choose. Buy a blade sampler pack alongside your razor so you can find the blade brand that works best for your skin and hair type. Give yourself two to four weeks to develop proper technique because the learning curve is real but absolutely worth pushing through.
After three months of testing these razors, I can confidently say that switching to a safety razor is one of the best grooming decisions you can make. Better shaves, less irritation, lower long-term cost, and a more sustainable footprint. Pick the razor that fits your budget and start enjoying what traditional wet shaving has to offer.