The shavette -
The razor with replaceable blades!
While some men appreciate the classic wet shave with a straight razor, others swear by the comfortable removal of facial hair with a safety razor. We don't want to commit to which shaving tool is better – we couldn't anyway, because each offers individual advantages – but instead introduce you to another alternative: the so-called replaceable-blade razor. In the following text, we will briefly discuss the name, features, blade types, blade replacement, and target group for replaceable-blade razors.
The name
You're actually quite knowledgeable about shaving tools, but you've never heard of replaceable-blade razors? That might be because many people mistakenly refer to them as shavettes. Strictly speaking, however, only replaceable-blade razors from a specific manufacturer who holds the trademark rights to that name can be called shavettes. It's just like with the "Tempo" brand of facial tissues: all "Tempos" are indeed facial tissues, but not all facial tissues are necessarily "Tempos."
The properties
In terms of construction and handling, a replaceable-blade razor resembles a classic straight razor. The crucial difference is that the razor blade – just like with a safety razor – can be replaced. This makes the replaceable-blade razor practically a hybrid between a straight razor and a safety razor. The fact that most barbers use them demonstrates just how high-quality replaceable-blade razors can be.
They are used to remove facial hair from their clients. Many hair salons also use this tool for shaving the neck area. Therefore, replaceable-blade razors are by no means a makeshift solution.
The types of blades
With most replaceable-blade razors, you can easily use standard razor blades designed for this type of shaving tool. If you choose a replaceable-blade razor from our shop, you will usually find information about compatible blades in the product description. Otherwise, please don't hesitate to ask us. Generally speaking, there are different types of blades available for replaceable-blade razors, namely:
- short blades
- medium-length blades
- long blades
- double-edged blades
Short blades
Short blades are the standard for replaceable-blade razors. They are so widespread that you can buy them almost anywhere you buy shaving supplies – including, of course, at Mootes. Due to high production volume, they are very affordable and also boast exceptional sharpness. Short blades are particularly well-suited for shaving precise contours. Short razor blades for replaceable-blade razors are also available in double-edged versions. Using them can reduce your shaving costs, as they are not twice as expensive as single-edged blades.
Medium-length blades
Medium-length blades for replaceable-blade razors aren't quite as common. Consequently, they tend to be a bit more expensive. Because they're longer than standard blades, you can often save some time shaving. However, they're often not quite as sharp.
Long blades
Long blades are almost exotic. You'll often only find them in specialty shops. They're also more expensive than the two types already mentioned. Using a long-blade razor is similar to using a...
classic straight razors most of all.
The blade change
With a little practice, changing the blades on replaceable-blade razors is quite easy. However, there are different locking mechanisms. With most, you first have to release the locking mechanism on the blade holder. Usually, you flip it upwards or move it to the side. Then you can remove the old blade and slide in a new one, which will usually click into place. Once the replacement blade is secured, you can begin shaving. After you've done it a few times, it should take you less than a minute. DIY enthusiasts might even enjoy changing the blades. Please note that you must first split double-edged blades in half before inserting them. The best way to do this is to bend them in the middle while they're still in the handle and then remove them. When changing the blade, always remember that the new blade is razor-sharp.
The target groups
Fans of replaceable-blade razors often explain that they combine the advantages of straight razors and safety razors, allowing you to get practically the best of both worlds. This argument isn't entirely wrong. On the one hand, the handling is similar to a straight razor, allowing you more flexibility in positioning the blade than with a safety razor. On the other hand, you can easily replace dull blades, just like with a safety razor. However, the replaceable-blade razor remains a compromise between the two. It's not quite as easy to use as a safety razor. After all, you have to find the ideal angle between the blade and your skin yourself. Furthermore, it doesn't offer the exact same feel as shaving with a straight razor. Nevertheless, it's a really good compromise.
The following four target groups are particularly interested in interchangeable blade knives:
- Curious
- transfer
- comfort-conscious
- Thrifty
Curious
Have you already tried wet shaving with a classic straight razor and a safety razor? Then you should also try replaceable-blade razors! Perhaps this is exactly the shaving method that, with its specific advantages, best suits your needs. Trying is better than just thinking about it!
transfer
If you're planning to use a classic straight razor for facial hair removal in the future, but have absolutely no experience, a razor with replaceable blades can be a good preparation or intermediate step. The handling is quite similar. The best way to prepare for the switch is to start with short blades and then move on to medium and long blades.
comfort-conscious
Not everyone who appreciates wet shaving with a classic straight razor enjoys the associated maintenance. After all, it's not just a matter of regularly stropping and oiling the blade. Sharpening the edge is also necessary at some point, otherwise a close and gentle shave will soon become impossible. Sharpening the blade, in particular, requires a certain amount of know-how and some manual dexterity. For those who want to avoid this process but still want to get as close as possible to the classic wet shave with a straight razor, a replaceable-blade razor is the perfect solution. Purchasing one can also be worthwhile for men who travel frequently and don't always want to take their "good" straight razor – along with all its accessories – with them, but still value a close shave.
Thrifty
A classic straight razor is undoubtedly stylish, offers a wonderful shaving experience, and conveys a sense of quality. However, quality models aren't cheap. In the long run, you'll also need to purchase additional accessories such as strops, sharpening belts, or whetstones. While replaceable-blade razors may not be quite as elegant, they are significantly less expensive.
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