What Your Father Didn't Teach You About Shaving

Merkur 34C vs Henson AL13: Two “Mild” Razors With Very Different Shave Logic

The Merkur 34C and Henson AL13 are both often described as “mild,” but they behave very differently on the face. Both razors also show up consistently in discussions of the most popular safety razors, which is part of why this comparison comes up so often. This comparison explains why these two razors behave so differently, and how to choose between them based on that difference.

Click/tap here to read more: https://sharpologist.com/merkur-34c-vs-henson-al13/

Which Inexpensive Fixed Blade Straight Razors Can Work, and Why the Category Is So Constrained

Inexpensive fixed blade straight razors can work, but only within tight constraints. Under $100, usable steel and acceptable geometry are possible in limited cases, but edge consistency is unpredictable and professional honing is usually required. Between $100 and $200, grind consistency and stropping behavior improve, which often makes this range the practical entry point for many shavers.

Click/tap here to read more: https://sharpologist.com/inexpensive-fixed-blade-straight-razors/

Wet Shaving Talk Podcast: Tools!

Joe Borrelli's latest Wet Shaving Talk podcast discusses:

• A Razor for the Tool Lover 
• Battle Bros Blades Made in the USA!
• Parker AeroShave New Razor 
• RazorRock Next Level Razor 

Click/tap here to listen (or read the transcript): https://sharpologist.com/podcast/wet-shaving-talk-for-6-april-2026/

Don't Forget About Sharpologist's Buyer's Guides

• Best Razors For Beginners
• Best Pre-Shave Oil
• Best Double Edge (DE) Razors
• Best Shave Brushes
• Best Shave Soaps
• Best Shave Creams
• Best Aftershaves

Be sure to see Sharpologist's "brother" website, The Black Coffee Life!