T-bar razor
The T-bar razor is the classic version of the safety razor. used by most men these days. Invented by the manufacturer Gillette back in 1901, this remarkable tool has gone through many modifications, while remaining virtually unchanged in form, function and ease of use.
Peculiarities
The name of this razor speaks for itself - it has a T-shape with a long handle and a head on which the blade is located. This design provides maximum convenience and safety of shaving - this is the main difference between such machines and the "dangerous" razors that existed before them. There are many design options - from the classic with two or three removable parts to "butterfly" systems for the most comfortable replacement of blades, so that everyone can choose the most suitable for themselves.
Such a razor usually consists of several parts:
- handle - plastic or metal, often grooved to make the tool easier to hold in your hand;
- comb - lower base, a universal blade is placed on it;
- head - the upper part of the machine that covers the blade.
Men's T-shaped machines are appreciated due to the following advantages:
- comfort of using tools with a comfortable handle;
- shaving quality and smooth skin after it;
- profitability - after the failure of the old blade, it is enough just to buy a new one without replacing the machine itself;
- versatility - replacement blades of the "Satellite" type are identical and are cheap.
The classic version of the T-Bar uses standard blades, which are usually sold in sets of several. They are much cheaper than removable cartridges, which may not be the same for different types of razors.
Kinds
According to the way the ridge is located, there are 4 options for T-shaped machines:
- Closed comb or "Closed comb". In such systems, the blades are the safest, they practically cannot be cut. This option is recommended for young men who are just starting to shave, but they are also great for men with soft stubble who need to shave 2-3 times a week. The disadvantage is that for very coarse hair they are hardly acceptable, and they may not produce the most thorough cleaning of the face.
- Open comb or Open comb option best suited for experienced men with coarse stubble. These razors provide the cleanest and most efficient shave.
- Open/Closed comb machines Can adjust open or closed comb. Such a combined option will be useful to many, but the design itself is more complex, it can quickly fail, and the machine itself becomes clogged faster, it will need to be cleaned.
- Machine model "Slant bar" or "Kosorez" has a sloping ridge. The bristles are cut at an angle according to the guillotine principle, shaving is very effective. But this option is suitable for men with shaving experience, as it is not entirely safe.
In addition to the classic T-shaped razors, in which the upper part is completely removed, there are also “Butterfly” or “butterfly” models that have a special lock for fastening. The blade is easily installed and removed on a special non-removable mechanism. Its design is more complex than that of 3-piece machines, but if such a razor is treated with care, it will last comfortably for a long time.
All of these options are double sided for even more convenience, meaning they last up to 2x longer than single sided machines with blades in cassettes.
Brand overview
Of the T-shaped machines of Russian production, it can be noted "Marshal", "Ruby", "Rapier". The classic Marshal Maxi double-edged razors are made with a durable metal head and an elongated plastic handle for a comfortable shave. The manufacturer Rubin has been famous for its high-quality razors since Soviet times. Today there are many modifications with different comb arrangements, metal and plastic handles of various lengths. Razor with a double-edged blade "Rapier Platinum Lux" has a simple classic design and a long plastic handle.
Brand Gillette is perhaps the most famous manufacturer of such goods in the world. The most popular today are the Fusion, Mach 3 and Venus N-shaped machines.
Safety shaver Moreville Solingen made from high quality stainless steel. The metal weighty handle is slightly thickened and comfortably held in the hands. This is an expensive, but very popular branded product.
Chinese razors from the manufacturer Weishi not cheap, but high quality and durable.Model 9306-F T-Bares are made with a knurled metal handle. They are sold complete with a plastic box with a mirror, shaving brush and five removable blades.
Machine Parker 24C suitable for both experienced and beginners. Removable open-comb head is easy to remove and holds the shaver securely. The handle is made of metal, has a complex corrugation for a secure fit.
From Japanese goods, one can note the machine model Feather Popular butterfly type. Equipped with a knurled plastic handle, it is very light and comfortable to use.
How to choose?
When choosing, you should pay attention to the material of the handle. Metal, especially stainless steel, is the strongest and most durable. Sometimes some cheap razor manufacturers paint plastic handles a metallic color, but this is very easy to determine: they will be significantly lighter than heavy stainless steel razors. Plastic is cheaper, but immune to moisture and easy to clean.
The handle of the machine should be ergonomic with corrugations on the metal surface or rubber inserts so that the razor does not slip in your hand. Its comfortable shape can also add comfort when shaving.
Before buying, it will be useful to check how conveniently the lid, blade and comb are removed. They should not get stuck and at the same time, when fully fixed, sit securely on the handle and do not slip - this also affects safety. If a "butterfly" is chosen, it is also worth checking how securely its lock opens and closes.
The manufacturer also plays an important role. It is better to choose a quality razor from a well-known brand, albeit expensive, but which will last for several years, providing comfort, safety and smooth, clean skin after shaving.
Which option is better depending on the comb - closed, open or inclined, it is worth determining for yourself, depending on the frequency of your shaving and the nature of the bristles. If there is any doubt about the choice, then it is worth experimenting first with the cheapest single-use machine or the combined model "Open / Closed comb".
How to shave?
The technique of shaving with a T-bar is not much different from the option with a cheap disposable or expensive cartridge razor. The main condition is clean, fat-free skin and hard, inelastic hair on the bristles. Before using a razor, be sure to wash your face with soap, this will relieve the appearance of irritation or abrasions after shaving. It is optimal to do this with warm, but not too hot water, the skin should be softened and slightly steamed.
Shaving creams were not invented by chance, it is recommended to apply them before the process. Firstly, only they most effectively reduce the elasticity of the bristles due to the presence of alkali, so the hairs are better cut. Secondly, they moisturize the skin and provide better blade glide. For application, it is worth using a shaving brush, it beats the foam well, and when it is brushed across the face, it lifts the hairs and massages the skin.
The razor must be clean and adjusted before shaving. Shaving movements should be carried out over the applied foam at an angle of approximately 30 degrees. You should not press hard, high-quality sharp blades cope with removal without pressure. Before each pass, the old place must be reapplied with foam. As for the direction and sequence of shaving areas of the face, it depends on personal preference. You can, for example, shave from the bottom up, starting from the cheeks and cheekbones and ending with the chin.
When the process is finished, it is necessary to completely wash off the cream and carefully check the thoroughness of the shave in front of the mirror. If some areas remain unshaven, then you should immediately correct them. Then the face is wiped with a clean towel, and it is best not to rub, but to blot the skin. After shaving, various gels, lotions or balms are used for the appropriate purpose, but without alcohol. They well restore the fragile skin of the face after the procedure, relieve irritation and refresh.
It is also worth being careful with shaving accessories: after each procedure, wash and dry the brush hairs, disassemble, wash and dry the machine.
Reviews
Men favor T-bar razors over cartridge razors because of their simplicity and blade interchangeability. Many recognize that such a product, with proper care, can last several years. It remains only to purchase regularly new blades, and from any domestic or foreign manufacturer.
Of the brands, of course, the most popular are Gillette and Parker, which are preferred by respectable mature men. Manufacturers such as Morevile and Weishi also remain high in the rating.
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