Before you say it, no this is not a joke. Gillette have gone and announced a 5 blade razor that will supposedly revolutionize the world of shaving. With the Mach 3 model already the widely recognised champion of modern shaving, the RMF is left asking”what can the Fusion really offer?”
Gillette claims the new Fusion models “outperform the world’s leading razors, MACH3Turbo and M3Power respectively, by incorporating breakthrough innovations that provide a dramatic increase in shaving closeness and comfort.” Closer than the Mach3 -I didn’t think this was possible without taking off a layer of skin (?).
And is it really the best a man can get? I do have a few gripes. First the blades are 30% closer together than with the Mach 3. This gives more scope for hair to get jammed between the blades and will take more time to effectively rinse out. As I’m the kind of masochist who will keep using my razor until a) it rusts b) it starts scarring my face, this potential for niggly hair jamming is a concern. Also, the Fusion looks likes something from outer space … and it wants to land on my face!
One thing the blade has going for it is that clever folk at Gillette have mounted a 6th blade on the back for delicate trimming of sideburns, taches, and beards. This will be a very welcome development in the world of multi-bladed razors.
Woah, hold on a second. That means they went straight from 3 blades to 6! On no, this spells trouble. You see, once upon a time we all thought the ‘Excel’ was the best a man could get. They lied and gave us the ‘Sensor’ and said that was the best a man could get. The ‘Mach 3′ showed they were once again lying through their teeth. And again, with the ‘Fusion’, we have been deceived. It is logical to assume that it will not stop with the Fusion, and that we should expect to see a 12 blader entering the market within a couple of years.
To tell you the truth, its all getting too much for me. Indeed, I am now seriously contemplating getting back to basics with a cut-throat razor. I particularly like the ‘Genuine Buffalo Horn’ by Dovo of Solingen, a real man’s blade. It will takes years to master, and will no doubt involve several pints of spilled blood, but it will be worth it. Plus, you can’t attack an intruder with a Mach 3 or Fusion, but this fine cut-throat would inflict some serious damage!
Riz http://rizdin.com
I have a sensor excel, and a 5 blade fusion.
I also have the straight edge barber knife.
These 5 blade razors are great for a quick shave when time is short.
If you have time on your hands, nothing beats the feel of sharp steel against the throat and shaving like your grandpa did. Designer facial fuzz or a clean shave, perfect for both once you get the hang of it. Downside is having to go much slower and lathering on the shaving soap, not foam/gel, with a brush… twice.
If ‘er indoors is knocking at the door, dont make any sudden head movements/turn around with the blade against your skin. It will lead to a bloody mess.
I still use a 2 blade excel too. But I’m guji and the excel blades are faaaaaarrr cheaper than these 5 blade beasts. Plus I don’t like a close shave as I have the whole ‘tiny bit of stubble’ look going on. For the ladies of course.