WetShaving
This is a community of enthusiasts, hobbyists and artisans who enjoy a traditional wet shave: brush, soap, and safety or straight razor. We are a part of the WetShaving community found on Reddit, Discord, and IRC.
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September 15, 2024
Today I'm comparing gear, so Gearhead was in order.
I recently picked up a few of the new Bolzano which are made in Egypt, to compare to the older ones made in Germany. Both blades had one shave on them to brush off any pesky excess coating.
I have two Baili BR171 razors, because who doesn't? I bought them both with my own money, one from Chiseled Face and one from Ali Express. Thanks to @[email protected] for convincing me that this was the obvious choice of razor for a side-by-side comparison.
I used the Egypt blade on the left side of my face, and the Germany blade on the right. I shave my whole face, because I'm not a slacker, baby boomer, nor am I running for Republican Vice President of the United States. I do the standard with, across, against, then clean up below my jaw.
The differences between the blades are slight, but noticeable. I was very happy with both of them.
Here are the results:
Sharpness: Egypt wins. It just moves effortlessly through even the thickest whiskers on my chin, where the Germany blade lets you feel each hair as it's being cut. The German blades aren't tuggy, necessarily, they just give you more feedback.
Closeness: A tie. Both blades gave me such a close shave, which is especially notable considering the semi-mild razors I used them in. Important to note, however, that the German blade came out of the gate faster. The first 2 passes I was sure the German blade would give a closer shave, but the Egyptian blade caught up on the ATG pass for a photo finish.
Comfort: Both blades treat me very well. I would call them both "smooth". This was confirmed when I applied the aftershave. Clubman Special Reserve is typically very stingy because it's basically water and alcohol, but both sides of my face took it with ease. I didn't even grimace.
Longevity: TBD. I know the German blades can last around 10 shaves easily. In time I'll know if the Egypt ones are worth the $39.99 price tag, because for that price, they better last a little longer than a typical blade.
How about a blind check? You have an assistant prepare the razors so you don't know which is which and repeat?
Great idea, but I don't know if I have the thrill for it! Maybe some other time.