Best Safety Razors of 2026
In our buying guide, we'll explain everything you need to consider when choosing the right safety razor and introduce you to a lineup of top-selling products available on sites like Amazon that can elevate your shaving experience. Whether you're looking for a beginner-friendly razor or something more advanced, we've got you covered.
Quick List - Top Safety Razor
King C. Gillette
Heritage-Inspired Design From One of the Biggest Brands in Shaving
Vikings Blade
AChrome-Plated Twist-To-Open Razor With a Heavily Textured Grip
With over a decade of weightlifting experience, Christopher Heffner is an avid fitness enthusiast who enjoys starting his day with a good workout. He also has a background in engineering and business, bringing a unique blend of technical knowledge and practicality to his endeavors.
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What Is a Safety Razor?
How to Choose Safety Razors
Choosing the right safety razor can make all the difference in your shaving routine. Whether you're after a close shave or a gentle touch, there's a razor designed to meet your needs. Here are a few key factors to consider when picking out a safety razor to ensure you always get the best possible shave.
Choose Based on How Close You Want Your Shave
The closeness of your shave depends on several factors, including razor type, blade sharpness, and shaving technique. A closer shave often means a higher risk of irritation, so balance your desired closeness with your skin's sensitivity.
Look for an Adjustable Razor to Suit the Most Hair and Skin Types With a Single Razor
Adjustable safety razors offer a versatile solution for those seeking a customizable shaving experience. These razors allow you to adjust the blade exposure, effectively controlling the aggressiveness of the shave. Turning a dial or adjusting a lever allows you to control the perfect setting for your skin type, hair growth, and personal preference. For example, you can start with a milder setting for sensitive areas or when you're new to the razor, then gradually increase the aggressiveness for a closer shave as desired.
This level of control makes adjustable razors a popular choice among experienced shavers who appreciate the ability to fine-tune their shave to their specific needs. They're also popular among newer shavers who want a razor that will grow with them rather than something they may be tempted to replace as their tastes or blade preferences evolve.
If You Have Sensitive Skin or Want to Use It for Body Hair, Look for a Mild Razor With a Closed Comb
If you have sensitive skin or plan to use a safety razor for body hair, opting for a mild razor with a closed comb is generally recommended. Closed comb razors have a protective bar that covers most of the blade, reducing the risk of cuts and irritation.
They are ideal for beginners and those with delicate skin. The closed comb design also helps prevent ingrown hairs, making it a suitable choice for body hair removal. While closed-comb razors might not provide the closest shave compared to open-comb razors, they emphasize comfort and reduce the likelihood of skin issues. Mild razors are often described as being "smooth" or not irritating.
If You Have Thick or Coarse Hair, Look for an Aggressive Razor With an Open Comb
For individuals with thick or coarse hair, an aggressive razor with an open comb design is often preferred. Open comb razors expose more of the blade, allowing for a closer and more efficient shave through denser hair growth. The open design also helps to prevent clogging, ensuring a consistent shave.
It should be noted that open-comb razors typically require more skill and care to avoid irritation. As such, many manufacturers tend to describe their more aggressive razors as providing a very close shave or being more suitable for experienced shavers rather than calling them "aggressive" outright.
Consider the Handle
The length and weight of your safety razor's handle are crucial for control and comfort.
Choose a Razor With a Handle Over Three Ounces for Better Control
A handle heavier than 3.5 ounces can enhance your shaving experience by providing superior control and stability. The added weight helps to counterbalance the razor head, reducing the likelihood of accidental nicks and cuts. This is particularly beneficial for beginners or those with less steady hands.
Additionally, a heavier handle allows you to apply less pressure during the shave, minimizing skin irritation. Some people even find that they don't have to use any pressure with a sufficiently heavy razor because the weight does all the work. Many shavers find that a well-balanced razor with a substantial handle delivers a smoother and more confident shave, and of course, some people simply prefer the feeling of the additional weight in their hand.
Choose a Razor With a Handle Over Four Inches for Better Reach
A longer handle on your safety razor offers several advantages, particularly when reaching those hard-to-see places and maneuvering around tricky areas. Whether you're shaving your face, neck, or body, a longer handle provides greater control, allowing you to navigate contours easily. This is especially beneficial for taller individuals or those with specific shaving challenges.
Choose a Razor With a Handle Under Four Inches for More Precision
This level of control can be particularly beneficial for achieving a clean and precise shave in these delicate zones. A shorter handle can also help maintain a consistent angle during the shave, reducing the risk of irritation. While some prefer the reach of a longer handle, a shorter handle excels in providing accuracy and finesse for those who prioritize detail.
For a Heavy Razor With Corrosion Resistance, Look for Stainless Steel
Stainless steel is popular for safety razor construction due to its durability and corrosion resistance. Known for its weight, a stainless steel razor often provides superior balance and control during shaving. This added weight can help to counterbalance the razor head, leading to a smoother and more confident shave. Stainless steel is also highly resistant to rust and corrosion, ensuring the longevity of your razor even when exposed to moisture.
While it tends to be more expensive than plastic or other metals, its performance and durability often justify the investment in a stainless steel safety razor. For example, even though the densities of steel and brass are nearly identical, brass is a much softer metal, increasing the risk of premature wear to threaded components. At the other end of the spectrum, titanium is a premium option for a lightweight razor that won't corrode.
Consider the Razor’s Construction and How to Change Blades
For the Most Affordable Option, Look for a Two-Piece Razor
For Durability and Customization, Look for a Three-Piece Razor
Three-piece safety razors offer a combination of durability and customization that many shavers appreciate. Unlike their two-piece counterparts, three-piece razors feature a separate base plate, enhancing the overall sturdiness of the razor. This construction also allows for easy disassembly, making thorough cleaning and maintenance more straightforward. Additionally, three-piece razors often offer opportunities to mix and match handles and heads, providing greater personalization. Frequently associated with a higher price tag than two-piece razors, the added durability and customization options make three-piece razors a popular choice among enthusiasts.
For the Easiest Blade Changes, Look for a Twist-To-Open Razor
Prioritize Reliable Brands for Quality and Heritage
By choosing a razor from a brand with a rich history, you're acquiring a functional tool and a piece of shaving heritage. Some classic models have been in constant production for decades. For example, the Merkur 34C began production in 1931, and even their more modern Futur model has existed since 1985. Both are still being made today. The craftsmanship and nostalgic appeal they offer can make them a worthwhile investment for collectors and enthusiasts alike.
Best Safety Razors Ranking
Products | Image | Click to purchase | Key features | Details | |||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Adjustable | Comb | Material | Weight | Handle Length | Construction | Accessories | |||||
1 | Bulimica Safety Razor | | A Reliable Entry-Level Option Into Wet Shaving | Closed Comb | Zinc Alloy, Aluminum Alloy | unknown | 4.06 in. | Two-piece | 10 stainless steel blades | ||
2 | Bambaw Metal Razor | | Simple Razor Available in a Multitude of Colors | Closed Comb | Metal | 3.84 oz. | 4.33 in. | Three-Piece | 1x Metal razor, 5x Razor blades, 1x In-depth digital user manual | ||
3 | King C. Gillette Gillette ｜Double Edge Safety Razor | | Heritage-Inspired Design From One of the Biggest Brands in Shaving | Closed Comb | Metal | 3.68 oz. | 5.59 in. | Two-piece | 5 stainless-steel blades | ||
4 | Vikings Blade The Chieftain Safety Razor | | AChrome-Plated Twist-To-Open Razor With a Heavily Textured Grip | Closed Comb | unknown | 4.96 oz. | 3.75 in. | Twist-To-Open | 5 Swedish Steel Blades, Luxury Case | ||
5 | Manscaped The Plow 2.0 | | Brass Three-Piece Razor Marketed Towards Men | Closed Comb | Metal, Brass, Zinc alloy | 5 oz. | 3.94 in. | Three-Piece | 3x replacement blades | ||
6 | Merkur Futur | | Streamlined Adjustable Razor Made of German Steel | Closed Comb | Die-cast zinc | 3.36 oz. | 4.13 in. | Two-piece | unknown | ||
7 | Rockwell Razors 6S | | Six Levels of Adjustment Using a Simple, Robust Design | Closed Comb | Stainless Steel, Metal | 8.32 oz. | 3.94 in. | Three-Piece | 5 Blades | ||
8 | Parker Variant | | Hand-Assembled Adjustable Razor With a Knurled Grip | Closed Comb | Brass | 4 oz. | 4 in. | Two-piece | 5 Blades | ||
9 | Tatara Muramasa Adjustable Safety Razor | | High-End Safety With an Innovative Adjustment Mechanism | Closed Comb | Stainless Steel | 3.7 oz. | 3.18 in. | Two-piece | |||
10 | Rex Supply Co. Ambassador | | Highly-Adjustable Razor Made of Marine-Grade Stainless Steel | Closed Comb | Stainless steel | 3.73 oz. | 3.5 in. | Two-piece | |||
BulimicaSafety Razor
| Adjustable | |
|---|---|
| Comb | Closed Comb |
| Weight | unknown |
| Handle Length | 4.06 in. |
- Material
- Zinc Alloy, Aluminum Alloy
- Construction
- Two-piece
A Reliable Entry-Level Option Into Wet Shaving
| Accessories | 10 stainless steel blades |
|---|
Bambaw Metal Razor
| Adjustable | |
|---|---|
| Comb | Closed Comb |
| Weight | 3.84 oz. |
| Handle Length | 4.33 in. |
- Material
- Metal
- Construction
- Three-Piece
Simple Razor Available in a Multitude of Colors
The Bambaw metal safety razor presents a minimalist approach to shaving. It is constructed entirely from an unspecified metal and offers a sleek and modern aesthetic. The two-piece design simplifies assembly and cleaning, making it a practical choice for daily use. The razor is purported to provide a milder shaving experience. It includes a pack of blades, and some color options include a stand. Reviews mention using this razor for both facial and body hair.
| Accessories | 1x Metal razor, 5x Razor blades, 1x In-depth digital user manual |
|---|
King C. GilletteGillette ｜ Double Edge Safety Razor
| Adjustable | |
|---|---|
| Comb | Closed Comb |
| Weight | 3.68 oz. |
| Handle Length | 5.59 in. |
- Material
- Metal
- Construction
- Two-piece
Heritage-Inspired Design From One of the Biggest Brands in Shaving
| Accessories | 5 stainless-steel blades |
|---|
Vikings BladeThe Chieftain Safety Razor
| Adjustable | |
|---|---|
| Comb | Closed Comb |
| Weight | 4.96 oz. |
| Handle Length | 3.75 in. |
- Material
- unknown
- Construction
- Twist-To-Open
AChrome-Plated Twist-To-Open Razor With a Heavily Textured Grip
| Accessories | 5 Swedish Steel Blades, Luxury Case |
|---|
Manscaped The Plow 2.0
| Adjustable | |
|---|---|
| Comb | Closed Comb |
| Weight | 5 oz. |
| Handle Length | 3.94 in. |
- Material
- Metal, Brass, Zinc alloy
- Construction
- Three-Piece
Brass Three-Piece Razor Marketed Towards Men
| Accessories | 3x replacement blades |
|---|
MerkurFutur
| Adjustable | |
|---|---|
| Comb | Closed Comb |
| Weight | 3.36 oz. |
| Handle Length | 4.13 in. |
- Material
- Die-cast zinc
- Construction
- Two-piece
Streamlined Adjustable Razor Made of German Steel
Despite its name and modern appearance, this razor entered production nearly four decades ago. Its stainless steel construction allows for a considerable amount of weight as well as corrosion resistance. The brass internals have a similar weight and corrosion resistance but provide lower friction for the adjustment mechanism. Speaking of which, the standout feature of this razor is the adjustment mechanism: twist the handle to take the razor from mild to aggressive and anywhere in between. Many users appreciate the ability to modify the shave to suit their preferences and blades of choice. Some users had reservations about the large head, which can sometimes make shaving in tight places, such as under the nose, a bit more challenging.
| Accessories | unknown |
|---|
RockwellRazors 6S
| Adjustable | |
|---|---|
| Comb | Closed Comb |
| Weight | 8.32 oz. |
| Handle Length | 3.94 in. |
- Material
- Stainless Steel, Metal
- Construction
- Three-Piece
Six Levels of Adjustment Using a Simple, Robust Design
| Accessories | 5 Blades |
|---|
Parker Variant
| Adjustable | |
|---|---|
| Comb | Closed Comb |
| Weight | 4 oz. |
| Handle Length | 4 in. |
- Material
- Brass
- Construction
- Two-piece
Hand-Assembled Adjustable Razor With a Knurled Grip
| Accessories | 5 Blades |
|---|
TataraMuramasa Adjustable Safety Razor
| Adjustable | |
|---|---|
| Comb | Closed Comb |
| Weight | 3.7 oz. |
| Handle Length | 3.18 in. |
- Material
- Stainless Steel
- Construction
- Two-piece
High-End Safety With an Innovative Adjustment Mechanism
| Accessories |
|---|
Rex Supply Co.Ambassador
| Adjustable | |
|---|---|
| Comb | Closed Comb |
| Weight | 3.73 oz. |
| Handle Length | 3.5 in. |
- Material
- Stainless steel
- Construction
- Two-piece
Highly-Adjustable Razor Made of Marine-Grade Stainless Steel
| Accessories |
|---|
What Makes a Good Shave?
Blade Sharpness and Durability
- Blade Coatings: Some blades feature coatings like platinum or chromium. These coatings can enhance blade life, reduce friction, and potentially provide a smoother shave. However, their impact varies, and only some notice a significant difference.
- Blade Profiles: Blade profiles, or the shape of the blade's edge, can influence the shaving experience. Some blades have a sharper edge, while others are rounded for a milder shave. Experimenting with different profiles can help you find what works best for your skin.
- Blade Manufacturers: Several manufacturers produce safety razor blades, each with its own characteristics. Popular brands include Gillette, Astra, Feather, Personna, and Derby. While personal preferences vary, these brands offer a good starting point for your blade exploration.
Determining Your Shaving Needs
The best way to find your ideal blade is through experimentation. Start with a blade that is generally considered mild, such as an Astra SP or a Gillette Silver Blue. Gradually try different brands and models to see how they perform on your skin. Pay attention to factors like blade sharpness, smoothness, and how long the blade lasts before it starts to dull. Variety packs are a popular way to try an assortment of blades.
- Skin sensitivity: If you have sensitive skin, opt for milder blades.
- Hair growth: Thicker or coarser hair might require a sharper blade.
- Shaving technique: Proper technique can prolong blade life and improve shave quality.
- Water quality: Hard water can accelerate blade dulling.
You'll find the perfect match for your shaving needs by patiently exploring different blade options.
Men’s and Women’s Safety Razors
There is no functional difference between safety razors marketed to men and those marketed to women. Safety razors are not inherently gendered; the only gender-related differences are marketing and color. They function the same way regardless of who's using them. However, marketing by major beauty brands often creates the illusion of a difference to target specific demographics.
A Largely Unnecessary Distinction
- Skin: Men and women fundamentally have the same skin. While some may have thicker hair, the basic principles of shaving remain consistent.
- Functionality: Safety razors rely on a single blade for a close shave. The design itself doesn't cater to different body areas.
- Customization: Many safety razors are designed for customization, allowing users to choose blades and adjust aggressiveness based on their needs. There's no "one size fits all" approach, so both men and women can find the ideal shaving experience with a single razor.
Subtle Design Variations May Appeal to Some
- Handle Colors and Textures: Some brands might offer razors in colors typically associated with feminine or masculine aesthetics.
- Handle Weight and Length: There could be slight variations in handle weight and length, but these are often more about personal preference than gender.
Ultimately, the best safety razor for you depends on your individual needs and preferences, not your gender. Also, it's worth mentioning that most of the marketing for safety razors has historically been targeted toward men, so there will be a greater variety of high-quality safety razors in the men's section. Thus, the ladies out there may be able to find a higher-quality razor that is a better fit for their needs by looking into something that isn't explicitly targeted toward women.
Safety Razor Terminology
Razor Components
- Head: The part of the razor that holds the blade.
- Handle: The part of the razor that you hold.
- Blade: The sharp cutting edge of the razor.
- Safety bar: The protective device between the blade and the skin.
- Comb: The structure on the razor head that guides the hair towards the blade.
- Open comb: Has gaps between the teeth, allowing more hair to reach the blade for a closer shave.
- Closed comb: Has a solid safety bar with no gaps, providing a milder shave.
- Base plate: In three-piece razors, the part that attaches the head to the handle.
- Blade Terminology
- Double-edge (DE) razor: A safety razor that uses a single blade with two sharp edges.
- Three-piece razor: A safety razor that can be disassembled into three parts: head, handle, and base plate.
- Two-piece razor: A safety razor consisting of a handle and head that screw together.
- Twist-to-open (TTO) razor: A safety razor where the handle twists to expose the blade compartment.
- Butterly razor: Same as TTO razors
- Adjustable razor: A safety razor that allows you to adjust the blade exposure.
- Slant razor: A safety razor with a slanted blade angle for a different shaving experience.
- Double-edge (DE) blade: A blade with two sharp edges.
Platinum coating: A coating applied to some blades to reduce friction.
Chromium coating: A coating applied to some blades to enhance durability.
Shaving Techniques
- With the grain: Shaving in the direction of hair growth.
- Against the grain: Shaving in the opposite direction of hair growth.
- Across the grain: Shaving perpendicular to hair growth.
- Pass: A single stroke of the razor.
Other Terms
- Strop: A leather strap used to hone the edge of a straight razor (not typically used with safety razors).
- Honing: The process of restoring a razor's edge.
- Blade gap: The space between the blade and the safety bar.
- Blade exposure: The amount of blade exposed to the skin.
- Lather: A creamy mixture of shaving soap or cream and water.
- Pre-shave: A product applied to the skin before shaving to soften the beard.
- Aftershave: A product applied to the skin after shaving to soothe and protect.
- Alum block: A mineral salt used as an astringent after shaving.
More Shaving Options
Looking for more insight on picking the best shaving option? Check out these other buying guides on other razors.
Top 5 Safety Razor
No. 1: Bulimica｜Safety Razor
No. 2: Bambaw ｜Metal Razor
No. 3: King C. Gillette｜Gillette ｜Double Edge Safety Razor
No. 4: Vikings Blade｜The Chieftain Safety Razor
No. 5: Manscaped ｜The Plow 2.0
View Full RankingThe descriptions of each product are referenced from content available on manufacturer, brand, and e-commerce sites.