Toddster64—January 1, 2018
I’m a reasonably longtime wet shaver (6+ years) - meaning I’ve transitioned from multi-blade razors to single- and double-edged razors, with some replaceable blade shavettes in the mix. I’ve also purchased an array of Parker razors, as they provide a varied selection of mid-range priced razors that generally do a good job, albeit with some cheaper materials but usually good quality. Big favorites include the recent Parker Variants, which compete well with the Merkur Progress and other higher priced adjustables. The 65R was purchased as a not needed acquisition, but on a whim based on feedback from other experienced shavers who mentioned its efficiency (translation - fewer passes or runs over the face to get the job done). And indeed, it’s a good razor - lots of audible feedback (you can hear the whiskers being mowed down); no pulling; and “adjustable” in the sense that different blades provide a greater than expected variation of results. Try a Derby Extra, and you’ll get a reasonable toned down shave; pop in a Feather, and two passes is all you’ll need (but you won’t likely suffer weepers like a Feather in other razors). Take this all with a grain of salt, given our different beards, shaving habits, experience, etc. This is a GREAT razor by any standards, and even by Parker standards. That efficiency, with comfort, is hard to find for those of us with heavy beards and comparatively softer skin. The handle looks great, is replaceable (with other DE handles, heavy or light), and appears to unscrew so you COULD put additional weight-bearing objects in the handle. Unnecessary in my view but a good option for some. So who would really like this razor? -Heavy beard guys (or gals - legs, anyone?) who don’t want to use a straight razor or other risky option -New shavers who want to go out on a limb without risking a limb - and like hearing the cutting action -Experimenters who might like to see how different blades work in a reasonably aggresive razor, and discern how they like or dislike those blades Folks, with SO many razors in my collection, I have to say this is an impressive razor. Thus the 5 stars. Read more
JohnnyBamboy—January 16, 2021
I have more razors than I could ever know what to do with, but I will not deny looking at all of them is quite a pleasure even though I use some more then others in my rotation. That said, this is a beautiful looking razor and I do use it often in my rotation. I love the look of this razor, weight, and it sells for a GREAT price. I have been using this razor going on 5 years (purchased in 2016). I use it to shave both my face and head. I find it slightly aggressive which works very well for my head. I tend to have to be careful around the neck. I recently replaced the razor head because it was starting to show some very light pitting on the underside. I did not have to change it but I am particular about my razor collection and the handle on this razor being so beautiful I thought it deserved a new head. Still, no complaints on quality on my part. I replaced the original head with a Muhle razor open comb head (one of the best) and this Parker/Muhle razor is now good to go for for many, many, many years. If you need to change the head and seek something a less aggressive try to the Muhe closed head. This is absolutely beautiful, quality razor regardless of the price. I especially love the way it "sings." Read more
Dominick S. Kociemba III—May 17, 2012
Let me say that this razor is VERY well made. It is just heavy enough to have a great balance, but light enough for ease of use around the face. I think you could hammer nails all day long with this razor and still get a perfect shave out of it. And, as other reviewers have remarked, it also looks very cool; unlike any other razor I've seen before. But, aside from looking very nice, the handle is very sturdy and totally nonslip. I'm pretty sure this razor will last me for many years, if not decades, and I highly recommend it. My only warning is this: for those of you who aren't used to shaving with a double edge razor, be very careful with this tool. As I've said, it's quite heavy, and absolutely NO pressure needs to be applied while shaving. Just let the weight of the razor do its thing, and softly glide the razor around your face. If you press too hard, you will nick or cut yourself. But this is merely bad technique, not the fault of the razor. With a little practice, shaving will be a breeze, and you'll notice a tremendous difference between shaving with a double edge razor as opposed to shaving with the store-bought, multiple-blade cartridge systems which are 5 times more expensive and aren't nearly as sharp. Also, note that I use the Feather Platinum blades, which are reported to be the world's sharpest. But honestly, any of the double edge blades such as Wilkinson Sword, Shark Super Chrome or Personna blades are excellent, and the Parker 65R is a great instrument in which to use them. Read more