I'm only about 4 and a half years late to the game but still wanted to say thank you for posting this video. I've been wet shaving on and off for about the past 20 years but only got seriously into the hobby for the past 4 years. I own, and love, my Merkur Progress and have seriously considered getting the Parker Varient. I think I probably will now after watching your review. As a runner myself I'd also like to wish Mrs H a belated well done on her half marathon accomplishment. Hope you're both healthy and well in this new year.
I have a Progress and it is one of my favorite razors. Thanks very much for sharing the video. Kudos to Mrs. H for completing the race, and also for the beautiful roses!
*Thank you very much for doing this video sir.* *It was highly informative, as to pointing out the distinct DIFFERENCES between the two razors. I love the Variant myself personally, but now it's nice to know what separates it from the Progress.* 😁
Thank you for going to so much trouble Paul. Really interesting. You are the person that converted me to DE shaving and thanks to your review the other week I'm now the proud owner of a Parker Variant, golly it's seems so solid and well made. I'm glad that I resisted temptation and didn't buy the progress a few months back.
Great head to head review, I must admit I was going to get the Variant but a Progress was available on UKWSS BST so I snapped that up instead. I was not disappointed, It's an excellent razor.
This video came out right around when I started traditional WetShaving!!!! I was really new , about 6 months into my traditional WetShaving Journey. I went back and tried to find it and I did lol 😅
One thing I always liked about Parker is that no matter if it's a TTO, Open Comb or 2 or 3 piece closed comb you always have excellent feedback. The razor always tells you what's going on. I also like the fact that their three piece closed and open Comb razors feels very similar in aggression yet the the open Comb is definitely more efficient.
Really appreciated this one because I am thinking of getting an adjustable razor and had decided to get the Variant but wanted to see how you felt about it. Now I am much more confident in my choice. Thanks Paul.
Good afternoon Paul! I could heard the audio feedback difference...the Parker seemed to cut better on the first pass as well. After the second pass, both razor appear to gave you at least SAS. Nice comparison. Ice Blue Aqua Velva...that used to burn something fierce...not tried the modern version. Oh, the Captain sent me a notice...he is now offering a soap locker...matching the bowl colors. Sort of like the ceramic dish Mitchell's offers. Thanks for all the information and take care.
Thanks Todd, I hope this helps someone if they were thinking of getting either razor, seen together here....love the Aqua Velva....the old version sounds a strong one, like most of the old aftershaves were....great days. must have a look at the Captains soap locker......all the best Todd and thanks again......Paul.
Lovely arrangement by Mrs. H as always. Thanks for the comparison video Mr. H, I was just thinking of getting either 1 of it but was stuck with only the merkur progess from English Shave Co as they provide 99p international shipping. Hoping they would carry stock for the parker variant soon. Great Shave as always!
Great Comparison Video. Very Helpful. Congratulations Mrs.H now if you could only get the old bag of bones Sir Humphrey to participate. Instead of water at each mile mark have a shaving product ready. He'd break the world record for the Half Marathon. All The Best, David 😀
Interesting comparison Paul. I would go with the Parker Variant, although both look to be very well made. It's hard to tell but it looked like the blade angle was different once the heads were on and adjusted, a little more aggressive angle on the Parker. Beautiful arrangement Mrs. H, and well done on completing the marathon! Mrs. W rides her exercise bike every day and hasn't missed a day in over 2 1/2 years. She goes mad if she forgets to put her FitBit on when she gets out of bed in the morning too. It takes a lot of dedication to stay fit, and the older you get the harder that becomes. You certainly earned your medal! Take care, Ossie
Thanks Ossie, yes the heads have a slight difference, but the shave "feels" the same, if that makes sense, also the audio feedback sounds different , but that is probably due to the slight difference in size, and metals I expect....Mrs W seems to keep fit too, that is good commitment everyday....Mrs H wants a FitBit too..lol....all the best....Paul.
I bought a progress a few years back and I had the most terrible shaves of my life until I discovered that the blade did not align automatically, also the cap would move from side to side. I aligned the blade manually and I had a great shave for once but I cannot risk it every time with the cap moving, so I have a variant in the mail. Thank you for the great review,
Congratulations to Mrs H.! Great comparison, Paul. I have gravitated to the Variant myself. I hope you're able to try some Stache Soap Works soon. Cheers!
Thanks Alex, yes Mrs H did very well, great razor the Variant isn't it....will no doubt try the Stache Soap works at some point ...all the best....Paul.
Paul, looked to me as though the Parker head was not on the correct way, ie with two bars aligning. This is from looking at the video at the end when you do the side by side comparison of gap, size and weight. Interesting video. I've tried these two razor comparisons but cannot remove one variable, my face! The right side is just more trouble than the left and always requires more touching up.
PaulHFilms Paul it's around 23.40 - 24.10. Also seemed to me the blade was not even - gap bigger one side than the other. Well, at least you know your videos are watched carefully. I paid particular attention - I mean apart from my usual OCD! - because I liked the look of the Variant. I have the Qshave Futur clone that I like a lot. Not sure what a Variant would add, but then that's true of most of my razors, too many of which seem similar. Exception, the r41 which requires care. Keep up the good work.
been thinking about the variant, you've won me on the pick-up, now off to make a purchase. health moderate to well and weeks been going fair so far . Bad thunderstorm today while I was at work . fantastic shave today ! Astra blade and level 9 on my Gillette !! BSS to be sure 😁 no skin irritation,used alum block and sea breeze original as after shave and old spice colone . going out tonight for a Curry 👍🍺😉
It's a great razor Charles, hope you enjoy it, your shave sounded great too, and the curry, that is a great end to any day....enjoy it.....all the best.....Paul.
Good video Paul, not a lot of difference between the two razors, hope your keeping ok, I recently purchased the Bay Rum shaving cream from Executive shaving, fantastic cream and scent, I already have there natural shaving cream which is a menthol which gives your face a nice cooling down great for the summer. - All the best Mark.
Thanks Mark, yes keeping well thanks, hope you are too, can't beat Bay Rum, nice isn't it....and this weather, menthol is great.....all the best.....Paul.
You should have used two of the same blade,that way you wouldn't need to keep switching it over.Thanks for the shout out,much appreciated.I'm glad you were able to join us.
I didn't want to use another blade, as it could have spoilt the comparison, incase of a dud blade etc...so using the same one made it more exact....well I hope anyway...your welcome for the shoutout.
The Parker Variant is my hands-down #1 head-razor. I always have a goatee and sometimes sideburns, so it’s bulbous head isn’t the greatest for detail work, (I prefer any of my razors with a low-profile head for that job). Although, it’s a great razor for men who completely shave their faces, but, once again, razors with a low-profile head will be better for under the nose, and razors that completely enclose the blade tabs are also superior for under the nose and around the ears, IMO. All that being said, I will always have a Variant for head-shaves, mine works great with a variety of medium-sharp blades such as Voskhod, Astra Superior Stainless, Gillette Wilkinson Sword (Chinese blue & white pack), Gillette 7:00 SharpEdge (Yellow pack), Treet Platinum stainless and Astra Superior Platinums, it’s really that good!
Great video Paul! Everything I've heard about these razors is the same conclusion you came to - they're very similar. I really like the fact that Parker decided to go with some knurling in the handle. Never did like that about the Progress. Do you know if Parker has fixed their plating issues?
I have all but stopped using my 830 as it eats lather for breakfast. so much so that I almost have to ad more cream every pass. Shame because I love the feel of the brush.
I've got not long and short progress along with a long knob/short handle mergress. Although you said they're the same, there's still something inside that makes me want to get the variant. I can't be the only one.
Hi Paul, not sure if this was mentioned... but you need to align the marks on the top and base plate on the Variant. They were not aligned for the third pass. Not sure what the progress requirements are as I don't have one. I do have the variant and am loving it. Cheers !
Ah didn't notice that on the third pass, will check the video back thanks and well spotted, yes it's the same with the Progress too.....all the best.....Paul.
Nice comparison Paul. Thanks I recently received shave gifts from my brother who was recently in Pakistan. Very interesting variety. Can't wait to try them all ! One of the aftershaves is Denim Raw Passion, Red packaging, in a nice glass bottle. I noticed in your assortment you have a bottle in a blue package . Also received some Treet blades. Noticed they too have numbered corners? Seems to be a conspiracy! Kevy, geofatboy,Rich,Paul H. Funny coincidence.
Sounds like some great products Dennis, yes i have the original scent version of Denim, and the shaving cream too, which I didn't know they made. the numbers on the corners of the blades are usually for you to know which side of the blade you have used, like 1 & 2 one side, then turn over 3 & 4......all the best....Paul.
Thought I saw on one of your previous videos that the Merkur Futur was one of your favorites but I recently replaced it with the Variant. Quality control was one of my issues with the Futur, the springs holding the top plate became weakened so the alignment became a problem along with the plate becoming lose and 'rattled' during shaves. Haven't tried the Variant yet (bought it at Mens Essentials in Canada) but seems I have made a good choice after watching your video comparison.
Was good until the Manchester news 😪 Nice review, the Progress is great but mine has terrible blade alignment. One side of the blade sticks out more. The EJ89 has taken its crown now. I truly love using it and it's shelving the other razors right now. Enjoy the week Paul 👍🏻
Very sad about Manchester yes, very shocked. In regards to the Progress someone else pointed alignment issues out too....I must be one of the lucky ones then.....cheers Liam, have a great week too mate.....Paul.
Paul, sorry for commenting this long after the video was made but I was going back and looking through your videos and came across this very interesting segment. I have recently purchased a Progess and hope I made the right choice between the two. I chose against the Variant because Parker is known for quality control issues. Don't really know if they have fixed those problems or not but everyone still talks about it. I can say this about the Progress, my first impression after taking it out of the box is that I hate the octagon handle. EJ also uses this type of handle and the grip when wet is rubbish. The Variant has knurling which is better although the handle is excessively long. So when I shaved the first time with the Progress I wasn't expecting to like it. In spite of the handle the Progress gave an excellent shave. I was very impressed with it. Now if they would just knurl the darn thing. Money is tight but I'm thinking of saving my penny's to buy a Variant. Do you think there is enough difference between them to justify owning both? P.s. Tell Mrs. H congrats on finishing the race.
Thanks Marc, firstlyI am lucky enough not to have had any quality issues with any of my Parkers thankfully, and I don't think it is justified on buying the two for the shaving side of it, as they are quite the same in that respect, the difference is the build, the look and the feel of the Variant, I like it because it seems to hold the blade "tighter" than the progress for me, that may sound silly, but it just feels better..so unless you really like the look of the Variant, I would stick to the Progress....give the same shave.....all the best ..Paul.
Hello Norm, The Progress/Variant on setting one are very close to the Edwin Jagger in aggression, but to me it does feel very slighly more aggressive on the Progress/Variant.....but not much....all the best....Paul.
They’re so simmilar? I’d go with the Parker just because of the price being lower( where I am anyway). Nice shave 👍🏻.thanks for doing this comparison Paul. It helped me make up my mind.Next time you do a comparison, maybe put on some music whilst you change blades 🎼🎶🎵💈.
My Parker variant after two years now has bad alignment problems that i can't fix, it's disappointing because i love the razor one side of the head is more aggressive than the other and it slants upwards, I'm gonna go with the merkur progress now to replace it
I think the Parker head is more "chunky" than the progress, so it could hold the blade better maybe, I don't see much difference in the blade exposure.
hey Paul I just started de shaving 2 months ago and love watching your vids. I have a futur and have been enjoying learning how to use it on my face and head. my question for you is, do you know any good online retailers? over here in the US we don't have many shops and I am trying to find a good online store to shop at. thanks for the great videos!
That's great, hope your enjoying your shaves, in regards to online shops, there are many, but I know mostly UK ones, so the shipping may be expensive for you to the US.....but here are some: www.traditionalshaving.co.uk/ www.maggardrazors.com/ (USA) www.edwinjagger.com/ www.westcoastshaving.com/ Hope it helps, and good luck with your shaving, all the best......Paul.
Hey Paul. Glad you did this vid, but a quick question. Do you prefer the Progress and Variant style as to the Futur or even the Vision? Thanks man keep um comin!!
Thank you for this Paul what do you think about Parker varient with open comb in comparison to Merkur slant and progress? R41? rockwell 6s or T2? I do own the R41, and merkur progress and used to have the progress a few years ago nad I do shave with shavettes and staright razors based on my mood
Good side by side review. I've got Parker variant (along with over a dozen DE razors). The short version of it; I expected better from Parker Variant. The head feels chunky, almost feels too heavy, it's cumbersome shaving under the nose area. Despite the knurling on the handle it feels too smooth. Doesn't provide as much grip as I would expect. If you compare the handle to the adjustment knob you'll feel that knurling on the adjustment knob provides much better grip than the handle. As for aesthetics Parker variant looks much better. Over decades thousands of reviewers complain about the plastic adjustment knob on Merkur Progress, yet the Germans are defiant, almost arrogant "WE ARE GERMAN, WE KNOW BETTER". On the other hand Parker doesn't even have it's name printed on the razor. The only thing printed on Parker razor is "INDIA". So, to the uninitiated I'm using an "INDIA" razor. On Merkur Progress it says Merkur, Solingen Germany. If you can't put your brand name on the product you're selling, what does it say about your product quality and care. Merkur wins in this regard and I have great respect for that, despite their defiant attitude about plastic knob.
I'm just starting with DE safety razors and have discovered your very helpful comparison video - many thanks! I was brought up in South Wales and think your accent sounds familiar; am I correct?
WHOA ! Gorgeous Roses , Baby's Breath , and Lilies Mrs H ! Thanks So Much . Congratulations on the Half Marathon ! How are you Paul ? Great Head to Head competition . That Shave Bowl is Tough . Both Razors do a Great Job . Really Nice Cream . 8^) Paul you're getting a workout changing that Blade back and forth , I'd be mind boggled . No doubt . Great Video comparing both . I've heard Rose Shaving Soap was very good for sensitive skin . Seems like there was a Germany Rose Soap that was discontinued that was well loved , and missed (expensive I believe) . The Flowers made me think of it . Fantastic Shave Paul . Thank you for the videos ! Have a Great Week Paul . ... those flasks you decanted AS in , were they 200 ml ?
Thanks Michael, also Mrs H says thanks too.....the rose soap sounded nice, shame it's been stopped. yes the bottles are 200ml.....have a great week too .....all the best....Paul.
Good shave Paul...as you know I have the progress...it's my favorite...but my greed compels me to get the variant.....When I have both I will feel complete..lol...are those the flowers you got Mrs H for her run...don't tell me you forgot...lol...she'll forgive you...they always do...trying to figure out why you didn't have a new blade of the same type in each razor...Do they not become more comfortable on the second shave and you did start with the progress...so the second shave with the varient had to be more comfortable..as is the case with a lot of blades..i,suggest a rematch with each razor using their own blade...seems fair to me...missed dinner but Mrs H's run was great...well I'll leave you to ponder my observations...have a good week...cheers !🇬🇧
Thanks Bill, I wasn't going to buy the Variant, as it was much the same as the Progress, but now I have it I am glad I do....I think you will like it....no flowers were not from me, she had a medal for doing it...lol. I used the same blade, as I didn't want to use a second, just incase it was a "dud" or made the comparison different.....the blades I feel and notice get better with each pass are usually the very sharp ones like Feather.....but may do another with two of the same blades in a future video sometime....have a good week too Bill.....thanks.......Paul.
Nice video as usual! I don't own either razor but just by watching this video I would go for the Parker as well. What were they thinking when they designed the Merkur? "Ah, wunderbar! Tolle Rasierer! Was können wir jetzt tun um das ganze design nicht zu attractiv zu machen? Eureka! Wir werden der Drehgeber hässlich weiss und plastic machen! " Translation:" Ah, wonderful! Great razor! What can we do next to spoil the design? I know! Let's make the dial a sordid white plastic knob!" 😉 PS: I have sent you a PM on Facebook Messenger, Paul. It is getting close to June 23rd and I promised you a birthday gift. Remember? 😉
Yes, I like the Parker too, but I don't actually mind the Progress, always had good shaves from it, I know a lot don't like the plastic adjusting knob....I will check the message thanks yes.......hope you have a great weekend......Paul.
awesome video again Paul. hope you're having a great week! still waiting on my Rockwell model T and was really interested in the Parker variant. might have to double down for one of them too! 😂
Greeting from the Sultanate of Oman. My name is Maz and I've been watching your vedios for long time and all what i can say is WELL DONE paul. your vedios are really valuable for all kind of wet shavers all over planet earth. There is a shaving cream with a long interesting story that i would ask you if i can sent it to you so you can try it and give us your feedback. its called CAOLA and i observed that you have never tried it before. is it possible that i contact you and how? Thanks
Thank you Maz, and greetings to you in Sultanate Of Oman, glad you enjoy the videos, and also for the offer of the CAOLA shaving cream, at the moment I have so many soaps coming, and waiting to be used, I will have to decline the offer at this time, but maybe in a few months time, if that is OK with you Maz......thank you again, your very kind ...all the best.....Paul.
You tried Caola 'Barbon' aftershave in a 2013 video (which has a matching shaving cream) -- /watch?v=q0T-p5wqRpQ&t=14m30s You tried Caola 'Figaro' shave cream in a 2014 video (where you announce two videos per week!) -- /watch?v=RT6dABESLLM Their shaving cream has chlorophyll and other ingredients which they claim offer 'moisturizing, antiseptic and analgesic effect(s).' i.e. Good if you deal with razor burn. Numerous individuals have found it an excellent, slick product for the price with a 'fresh', 'mossy', 'forest' scent. The 'Figaro' variety has a more refined scent. caola.hu/markaink/barbon/
wow, I just noticed that while watching this video it is exactly 2 years to the day of when this video was put up to be watched that's weird that I just noticed the dates !
That was Paul H, with "Both Sides Now", followed by "Shine On, You Crazy Diamond"! Oh, and say, Paul, would you watch the shaving video I made? It may be a bit primitive, but I thought I'd give it a go. If anyone else wants to watch, I'd be pleased also. Excuse the shameless plug.
Did you ever get that dot left of your left eye checked out by a doctor? It's definitely gotten a lot bigger over the few years I've been watching your videos. My wife's brother's fiance had a dot kind of like that and it ended up being skin cancer. They caught it in time and removed it successfully and she's all good thankfully. I hope it's nothing (and really I hope you've already gotten it checked and already know it's nothing)
Hello how are you, I'm Rajan Sharma from INDIA, I always feel that MERKUR razors glides better over the skin and cuts the whiskers better than PARKER razors although PARKER razors are made in India and are very easily available but I daily shave with my MERKUR 37C and love it, variant is nice for me for touch ups only.
I have Progress it is very good excellent but Futur is Rols Roy's for All razors. Futur is sunsficktion. PROGRES is nice I like him .as second razor I wood like to by Start 2 and Diplomat from Rassia razor.ans Rockwell T2.for small bard King C Gillette is the best.from China
I'm only about 4 and a half years late to the game but still wanted to say thank you for posting this video. I've been wet shaving on and off for about the past 20 years but only got seriously into the hobby for the past 4 years. I own, and love, my Merkur Progress and have seriously considered getting the Parker Varient. I think I probably will now after watching your review. As a runner myself I'd also like to wish Mrs H a belated well done on her half marathon accomplishment. Hope you're both healthy and well in this new year.
I have a Progress and it is one of my favorite razors.
Thanks very much for sharing the video.
Kudos to Mrs. H for completing the race, and also for the beautiful roses!
Thanks very much.
I have the Parker. Wonderful razor. Thanks for the comparison.
Thanks John
*Thank you very much for doing this video sir.*
*It was highly informative, as to pointing out the distinct DIFFERENCES between the two razors. I love the Variant myself personally, but now it's nice to know what separates it from the Progress.* 😁
Your welcome, just hope it helps people, have a great week, all the best.....Paul.
Now it is definitely confirmed! PaulH and a 2 razor head to head comparison...We are firmly in the TWILIGHT ZONE!!!!
Yes the Twilight Zone....lol.
Thank you for going to so much trouble Paul. Really interesting. You are the person that converted me to DE shaving and thanks to your review the other week I'm now the proud owner of a Parker Variant, golly it's seems so solid and well made. I'm glad that I resisted temptation and didn't buy the progress a few months back.
Your welcome Andrew, just hope it helps someone, great razor the Variant isn't it....glad you like yours....all the best.....and thanks.....Paul.
Paul based on your suggestions I am checking your video out on these two razors. Thanks again
Thank you Frank, hope it helps.....Paul.
Great head to head review, I must admit I was going to get the Variant but a Progress was available on UKWSS BST so I snapped that up instead. I was not disappointed, It's an excellent razor.
This video came out right around when I started traditional WetShaving!!!! I was really new , about 6 months into my traditional WetShaving Journey. I went back and tried to find it and I did lol 😅
I recently got the Parker Variant (and Parker semi slant). The blade is well and tightly composed in the head, gives a great shave.
One thing I always liked about Parker is that no matter if it's a TTO, Open Comb or 2 or 3 piece closed comb you always have excellent feedback. The razor always tells you what's going on. I also like the fact that their three piece closed and open Comb razors feels very similar in aggression yet the the open Comb is definitely more efficient.
Really appreciated this one because I am thinking of getting an adjustable razor and had decided to get the Variant but wanted to see how you felt about it. Now I am much more confident in my choice. Thanks Paul.
Good comparison. I don't own either but was looking into one or the other
Thanks, hope it helped.
Good afternoon Paul! I could heard the audio feedback difference...the Parker seemed to cut better on the first pass as well. After the second pass, both razor appear to gave you at least SAS. Nice comparison. Ice Blue Aqua Velva...that used to burn something fierce...not tried the modern version. Oh, the Captain sent me a notice...he is now offering a soap locker...matching the bowl colors. Sort of like the ceramic dish Mitchell's offers. Thanks for all the information and take care.
Thanks Todd, I hope this helps someone if they were thinking of getting either razor, seen together here....love the Aqua Velva....the old version sounds a strong one, like most of the old aftershaves were....great days. must have a look at the Captains soap locker......all the best Todd and thanks again......Paul.
Lovely arrangement by Mrs. H as always. Thanks for the comparison video Mr. H, I was just thinking of getting either 1 of it but was stuck with only the merkur progess from English Shave Co as they provide 99p international shipping. Hoping they would carry stock for the parker variant soon. Great Shave as always!
Thanks Lloyd, i think someone put a link under the Parker Variant video, saying a UK shop was stocking them, all the best.....Paul.
Great video Paul. You helped me decide, I'm going with the Parker.
I'm sure you will be happy with your choice, great razor.....all the best....Paul.
Great Comparison Video. Very Helpful. Congratulations Mrs.H now if you could only get the old bag of bones Sir Humphrey to participate. Instead of water at each mile mark have a shaving product ready. He'd break the world record for the Half Marathon. All The Best, David 😀
Thanks David, and your right I would win the Marathon then..lol
Interesting comparison Paul. I would go with the Parker Variant, although both look to be very well made. It's hard to tell but it looked like the blade angle was different once the heads were on and adjusted, a little more aggressive angle on the Parker. Beautiful arrangement Mrs. H, and well done on completing the marathon! Mrs. W rides her exercise bike every day and hasn't missed a day in over 2 1/2 years. She goes mad if she forgets to put her FitBit on when she gets out of bed in the morning too. It takes a lot of dedication to stay fit, and the older you get the harder that becomes. You certainly earned your medal! Take care, Ossie
Thanks Ossie, yes the heads have a slight difference, but the shave "feels" the same, if that makes sense, also the audio feedback sounds different , but that is probably due to the slight difference in size, and metals I expect....Mrs W seems to keep fit too, that is good commitment everyday....Mrs H wants a FitBit too..lol....all the best....Paul.
Good video Paul and congratulations to Mrs. H.
Thanks very much Tim
I bought a progress a few years back and I had the most terrible shaves of my life until I discovered that the blade did not align automatically, also the cap would move from side to side. I aligned the blade manually and I had a great shave for once but I cannot risk it every time with the cap moving, so I have a variant in the mail.
Thank you for the great review,
Shame that happened with the Progress , I find the Variant holds the blade much firmer ....all the best and thanks....Paul.
Really nice shave Paul. I have been thinking about picking up one of those two razors. Thanks for the video.
Thanks Chris, hope it helped a bit....all the best.....Paul.
Congratulations to Mrs H.! Great comparison, Paul. I have gravitated to the Variant myself. I hope you're able to try some Stache Soap Works soon. Cheers!
Thanks Alex, yes Mrs H did very well, great razor the Variant isn't it....will no doubt try the Stache Soap works at some point ...all the best....Paul.
💪🏻💈 👍🏻
Excellent side by side look at those two razors. Thanks for the shave Paul!
Thanks David.
Thank you for this Paul. I've been agonizing over which DE razor to get and you really helped me out. Nice work sir.
Congrats to Mrs. H. Job well done.
Thank you.
Nice thorough comparison of the two Paul. Both razors are top quality or so it seems. Thank you.
Thanks Brian, yes two good razors, all the best.....Paul.
Paul, looked to me as though the Parker head was not on the correct way, ie with two bars aligning. This is from looking at the video at the end when you do the side by side comparison of gap, size and weight. Interesting video. I've tried these two razor comparisons but cannot remove one variable, my face! The right side is just more trouble than the left and always requires more touching up.
I will check on that thanks Chris.
PaulHFilms Paul it's around 23.40 - 24.10. Also seemed to me the blade was not even - gap bigger one side than the other. Well, at least you know your videos are watched carefully. I paid particular attention - I mean apart from my usual OCD! - because I liked the look of the Variant. I have the Qshave Futur clone that I like a lot. Not sure what a Variant would add, but then that's true of most of my razors, too many of which seem similar. Exception, the r41 which requires care. Keep up the good work.
been thinking about the variant, you've won me on the pick-up, now off to make a purchase. health moderate to well and weeks been going fair so far . Bad thunderstorm today while I was at work . fantastic shave today ! Astra blade and level 9 on my Gillette !! BSS to be sure 😁 no skin irritation,used alum block and sea breeze original as after shave and old spice colone .
going out tonight for a Curry 👍🍺😉
It's a great razor Charles, hope you enjoy it, your shave sounded great too, and the curry, that is a great end to any day....enjoy it.....all the best.....Paul.
Good video Paul, not a lot of difference between the two razors, hope your keeping ok, I recently purchased the Bay Rum shaving cream from Executive shaving, fantastic cream and scent, I already have there natural shaving cream which is a menthol which gives your face a nice cooling down great for the summer. - All the best Mark.
Thanks Mark, yes keeping well thanks, hope you are too, can't beat Bay Rum, nice isn't it....and this weather, menthol is great.....all the best.....Paul.
You should have used two of the same blade,that way you wouldn't need to keep switching it over.Thanks for the shout out,much appreciated.I'm glad you were able to join us.
I didn't want to use another blade, as it could have spoilt the comparison, incase of a dud blade etc...so using the same one made it more exact....well I hope anyway...your welcome for the shoutout.
The Parker Variant is my hands-down #1 head-razor. I always have a goatee and sometimes sideburns, so it’s bulbous head isn’t the greatest for detail work, (I prefer any of my razors with a low-profile head for that job).
Although, it’s a great razor for men who completely shave their faces, but, once again, razors with a low-profile head will be better for under the nose, and razors that completely enclose the blade tabs are also superior for under the nose and around the ears, IMO.
All that being said, I will always have a Variant for head-shaves, mine works great with a variety of medium-sharp blades such as Voskhod, Astra Superior Stainless, Gillette Wilkinson Sword (Chinese blue & white pack), Gillette 7:00 SharpEdge (Yellow pack), Treet Platinum stainless and Astra Superior Platinums, it’s really that good!
Great video Paul! Everything I've heard about these razors is the same conclusion you came to - they're very similar. I really like the fact that Parker decided to go with some knurling in the handle. Never did like that about the Progress. Do you know if Parker has fixed their plating issues?
Thanks Pete, not sure about the plating issue, that is why I chose this instead of the Black.....all the best.....Paul.
I have all but stopped using my 830 as it eats lather for breakfast. so much so that I almost have to ad more cream every pass. Shame because I love the feel of the brush.
Great shame that yes, one of those things I expect....all the best Peter....thanks......Paul.
Awesome video Paul. Good comparison of some fantastic products. 👍🏻👍🏻
Thanks Kirk.
I've got not long and short progress along with a long knob/short handle mergress.
Although you said they're the same, there's still something inside that makes me want to get the variant. I can't be the only one.
Always good spirits - make mine a a 12yr single cask talisker.
Talisker it is then.
good chap .. gnnaaarr gnaarr.
Hi Paul, not sure if this was mentioned... but you need to align the marks on the top and base plate on the Variant. They were not aligned for the third pass. Not sure what the progress requirements are as I don't have one. I do have the variant and am loving it. Cheers !
Ah didn't notice that on the third pass, will check the video back thanks and well spotted, yes it's the same with the Progress too.....all the best.....Paul.
Is the blade misalignment issue a common thing in the Progress?
Nice comparison Paul. Thanks
I recently received shave gifts from my brother who was recently in Pakistan. Very interesting variety. Can't wait to try them all ! One of the aftershaves is Denim Raw Passion, Red packaging, in a nice glass bottle. I noticed in your assortment you have a bottle in a blue package . Also received some Treet blades. Noticed they too have numbered corners?
Seems to be a conspiracy! Kevy, geofatboy,Rich,Paul H. Funny coincidence.
Sounds like some great products Dennis, yes i have the original scent version of Denim, and the shaving cream too, which I didn't know they made. the numbers on the corners of the blades are usually for you to know which side of the blade you have used, like 1 & 2 one side, then turn over 3 & 4......all the best....Paul.
Excellent shave Paul I think I would go with either razor but I really like the variants audio feedback.💈💈💈💈
Thanks Jarryed, yes I like the audio feedback from it too....have a great weekend.
I have both and find the Variant a touch more aggressive than the Progress, they are both great.
Great as usual. Congrats misses H.
Thank you very much.
Thought I saw on one of your previous videos that the Merkur Futur was one of your favorites but I recently replaced it with the Variant. Quality control was one of my issues with the Futur, the springs holding the top plate became weakened so the alignment became a problem along with the plate becoming lose and 'rattled' during shaves. Haven't tried the Variant yet (bought it at Mens Essentials in Canada) but seems I have made a good choice after watching your video comparison.
Yes I like the Futur, thankfully had no issues as yet with it.....the variant is a great razor, hope you enjoy it......thanks...Paul.
Was good until the Manchester news 😪
Nice review, the Progress is great but mine has terrible blade alignment. One side of the blade sticks out more. The EJ89 has taken its crown now. I truly love using it and it's shelving the other razors right now.
Enjoy the week Paul 👍🏻
Very sad about Manchester yes, very shocked. In regards to the Progress someone else pointed alignment issues out too....I must be one of the lucky ones then.....cheers Liam, have a great week too mate.....Paul.
very informative,,thanks Paul
Your welcome, thanks :-)
I dont have one..bit the adjustment knob on the Merkur really puts me off what otherwise is a beautiful razor
Congratulations mrs H
Thanks John.
Must try that Cade again Paul..............
It's a good cream Chris....nice to go back to them, as you forget sometimes.
Nice video Paul
Paul great video as always cheers... You forgot to add in the link for the Suffolk Shaver!
Thanks Mike, I have sorted that now.
Paul, sorry for commenting this long after the video was made but I was going back and looking through your videos and came across this very interesting segment. I have recently purchased a Progess and hope I made the right choice between the two. I chose against the Variant because Parker is known for quality control issues. Don't really know if they have fixed those problems or not but everyone still talks about it. I can say this about the Progress, my first impression after taking it out of the box is that I hate the octagon handle. EJ also uses this type of handle and the grip when wet is rubbish. The Variant has knurling which is better although the handle is excessively long. So when I shaved the first time with the Progress I wasn't expecting to like it. In spite of the handle the Progress gave an excellent shave. I was very impressed with it. Now if they would just knurl the darn thing. Money is tight but I'm thinking of saving my penny's to buy a Variant. Do you think there is enough difference between them to justify owning both? P.s. Tell Mrs. H congrats on finishing the race.
Thanks Marc, firstlyI am lucky enough not to have had any quality issues with any of my Parkers thankfully, and I don't think it is justified on buying the two for the shaving side of it, as they are quite the same in that respect, the difference is the build, the look and the feel of the Variant, I like it because it seems to hold the blade "tighter" than the progress for me, that may sound silly, but it just feels better..so unless you really like the look of the Variant, I would stick to the Progress....give the same shave.....all the best ..Paul.
What is the handle size of parker adjustable is it 3.5 or 4 inches
Hello Paul! How would you compare the Variant or Progress on it's mildest setting compared to the Edwin Jagger DE89? Cheers! -Norm
Hello Norm, The Progress/Variant on setting one are very close to the Edwin Jagger in aggression, but to me it does feel very slighly more aggressive on the Progress/Variant.....but not much....all the best....Paul.
They’re so simmilar? I’d go with the Parker just because of the price being lower( where I am anyway).
Nice shave 👍🏻.thanks for doing this comparison Paul. It helped me make up my mind.Next time you do a comparison, maybe put on some music whilst you change blades 🎼🎶🎵💈.
My Parker variant after two years now has bad alignment problems that i can't fix, it's disappointing because i love the razor one side of the head is more aggressive than the other and it slants upwards, I'm gonna go with the merkur progress now to replace it
Would you recommend Parker Variant as every day razor?
It depends on what type of razors you like or your skin can take, the parker variant is adjustable, but not a mild razor..
would you say the progress is a mild razor on the lowest setting compared to the variant?
When you say the Parker holds the blade tighter, does the blade by any chance stick out less far and therefor has a less "wobbly" feeling?
I think the Parker head is more "chunky" than the progress, so it could hold the blade better maybe, I don't see much difference in the blade exposure.
My favorite safety razor blades for me are Wilkinson sword and Gillette silver blue
Good choice, I have always gone to Wilkinson Sword as my standard blade... all the best....Paul.
Do you or anyone else know what the numbers on the Merkur Progress relate to in blade gap
hey Paul I just started de shaving 2 months ago and love watching your vids. I have a futur and have been enjoying learning how to use it on my face and head. my question for you is, do you know any good online retailers? over here in the US we don't have many shops and I am trying to find a good online store to shop at. thanks for the great videos!
That's great, hope your enjoying your shaves, in regards to online shops, there are many, but I know mostly UK ones, so the shipping may be expensive for you to the US.....but here are some:
www.traditionalshaving.co.uk/
www.maggardrazors.com/ (USA)
www.edwinjagger.com/
www.westcoastshaving.com/
Hope it helps, and good luck with your shaving, all the best......Paul.
The side of your face shaved with the Variant on the first pass looked cleaner and closer. Maybe it’s just the camera angle
Hey Paul. Glad you did this vid, but a quick question. Do you prefer the Progress and Variant style as to the Futur or even the Vision? Thanks man keep um comin!!
Thanks Ron, no, I like these razors for what they are, but I love my Merkur Futur, and would pick it above these two...all the best.....Paul.
Thank you for this Paul
what do you think about
Parker varient with open comb in comparison to Merkur slant and progress? R41? rockwell 6s or T2?
I do own the R41, and merkur progress and used to have the progress a few years ago nad I do shave with shavettes and staright razors based on my mood
As always a great video I could learn something again, beautiful flowers (english roses - what else) but i Miss the cat ;-)
Thank you Josef.
my problem exactly with the 830, I have to keep looking behind me to see if a thief is in the bathroom stealing my lather 😐
Thank you very much for this video :)
Your most welcome...thanks.
Good side by side review. I've got Parker variant (along with over a dozen DE razors). The short version of it; I expected better from Parker Variant. The head feels chunky, almost feels too heavy, it's cumbersome shaving under the nose area. Despite the knurling on the handle it feels too smooth. Doesn't provide as much grip as I would expect. If you compare the handle to the adjustment knob you'll feel that knurling on the adjustment knob provides much better grip than the handle. As for aesthetics Parker variant looks much better. Over decades thousands of reviewers complain about the plastic adjustment knob on Merkur Progress, yet the Germans are defiant, almost arrogant "WE ARE GERMAN, WE KNOW BETTER". On the other hand Parker doesn't even have it's name printed on the razor. The only thing printed on Parker razor is "INDIA". So, to the uninitiated I'm using an "INDIA" razor. On Merkur Progress it says Merkur, Solingen Germany. If you can't put your brand name on the product you're selling, what does it say about your product quality and care. Merkur wins in this regard and I have great respect for that, despite their defiant attitude about plastic knob.
Can you remember the settings you used in Variant? WTG & ATG
I think it was the mid setting.
I'm just starting with DE safety razors and have discovered your very helpful comparison video - many thanks! I was brought up in South Wales and think your accent sounds familiar; am I correct?
Thank you, I am Welsh yes, from North Wales :-)
WHOA ! Gorgeous Roses , Baby's Breath , and Lilies Mrs H ! Thanks So Much . Congratulations on the Half Marathon ! How are you Paul ? Great Head to Head competition . That Shave Bowl is Tough . Both Razors do a Great Job . Really Nice Cream . 8^) Paul you're getting a workout changing that Blade back and forth , I'd be mind boggled . No doubt . Great Video comparing both . I've heard Rose Shaving Soap was very good for sensitive skin . Seems like there was a Germany Rose Soap that was discontinued that was well loved , and missed (expensive I believe) . The Flowers made me think of it . Fantastic Shave Paul . Thank you for the videos ! Have a Great Week Paul . ... those flasks you decanted AS in , were they 200 ml ?
Thanks Michael, also Mrs H says thanks too.....the rose soap sounded nice, shame it's been stopped. yes the bottles are 200ml.....have a great week too .....all the best....Paul.
Good shave Paul...as you know I have the progress...it's my favorite...but my greed compels me to get the variant.....When I have both I will feel complete..lol...are those the flowers you got Mrs H for her run...don't tell me you forgot...lol...she'll forgive you...they always do...trying to figure out why you didn't have a new blade of the same type in each razor...Do they not become more comfortable on the second shave and you did start with the progress...so the second shave with the varient had to be more comfortable..as is the case with a lot of blades..i,suggest a rematch with each razor using their own blade...seems fair to me...missed dinner but Mrs H's run was great...well I'll leave you to ponder my observations...have a good week...cheers !🇬🇧
Thanks Bill, I wasn't going to buy the Variant, as it was much the same as the Progress, but now I have it I am glad I do....I think you will like it....no flowers were not from me, she had a medal for doing it...lol. I used the same blade, as I didn't want to use a second, just incase it was a "dud" or made the comparison different.....the blades I feel and notice get better with each pass are usually the very sharp ones like Feather.....but may do another with two of the same blades in a future video sometime....have a good week too Bill.....thanks.......Paul.
Thanks Paul - this helps me to stay with my Progress- for the tiny difference - i spend the money on soaps 😀😀😀
Good reason, best of both worlds then....all the best and thanks....Paul.
Nice video as usual!
I don't own either razor but just by watching this video I would go for the Parker as well. What were they thinking when they designed the Merkur? "Ah, wunderbar! Tolle Rasierer! Was können wir jetzt tun um das ganze design nicht zu attractiv zu machen? Eureka! Wir werden der Drehgeber hässlich weiss und plastic machen! " Translation:" Ah, wonderful! Great razor! What can we do next to spoil the design? I know! Let's make the dial a sordid white plastic knob!" 😉
PS: I have sent you a PM on Facebook Messenger, Paul. It is getting close to June 23rd and I promised you a birthday gift. Remember? 😉
Yes, I like the Parker too, but I don't actually mind the Progress, always had good shaves from it, I know a lot don't like the plastic adjusting knob....I will check the message thanks yes.......hope you have a great weekend......Paul.
Hey Paul, I ran into a similar problem with my Semogue 830 brush. It seems that the brush needs more cream than other brushes which I own.
Yes, some brushes seem more lather thirsty than others.
awesome video again Paul. hope you're having a great week! still waiting on my Rockwell model T and was really interested in the Parker variant. might have to double down for one of them too! 😂
Thanks Spence, hope the Model T arrives soon, and you enjoy it.....the Variant is a good razor at a fair price too....all the best.....Paul.
Well done to your wife Paul, in the Chester run. All the best....Steven.
Many thanks Steven.
Why the blade switch? Couldn't you just have put a fresh blade in each razor? Nice shave.
It was just my choice at the time really, I just wanted to use the same blade..... thanks and hope you have a great weekend.
Greeting from the Sultanate of Oman.
My name is Maz and I've been watching your vedios for long time and all what i can say is WELL DONE paul. your vedios are really valuable for all kind of wet shavers all over planet earth.
There is a shaving cream with a long interesting story that i would ask you if i can sent it to you so you can try it and give us your feedback. its called CAOLA and i observed that you have never tried it before. is it possible that i contact you and how?
Thanks
Thank you Maz, and greetings to you in Sultanate Of Oman, glad you enjoy the videos, and also for the offer of the CAOLA shaving cream, at the moment I have so many soaps coming, and waiting to be used, I will have to decline the offer at this time, but maybe in a few months time, if that is OK with you Maz......thank you again, your very kind ...all the best.....Paul.
You tried Caola 'Barbon' aftershave in a 2013 video (which has a matching shaving cream) --
/watch?v=q0T-p5wqRpQ&t=14m30s
You tried Caola 'Figaro' shave cream in a 2014 video (where you announce two videos per week!) --
/watch?v=RT6dABESLLM
Their shaving cream has chlorophyll and other ingredients which they claim offer 'moisturizing, antiseptic and analgesic effect(s).' i.e. Good if you deal with razor burn. Numerous individuals have found it an excellent, slick product for the price with a 'fresh', 'mossy', 'forest' scent. The 'Figaro' variety has a more refined scent.
caola.hu/markaink/barbon/
Ive found the varaint a touch more aggressive than progress
hope your having a good day paul, your pal mickey.☺🐭
Cheers Mickey, yes having a good day, hope you are too.
wow, I just noticed that while watching this video it is exactly 2 years to the day of when this video was put up to be watched that's weird that I just noticed the dates !
Amazing when that happens isn't it....many thanks :-)
Merkur progress rules! And after the progress i shave every day whitout iritation.
That was Paul H, with "Both Sides Now", followed by "Shine On, You Crazy Diamond"! Oh, and say, Paul, would you watch the shaving video I made? It may be a bit primitive, but I thought I'd give it a go. If anyone else wants to watch, I'd be pleased also. Excuse the shameless plug.
Thank you Don, yes I will watch it, welcome to the UA-cam Shaving Videos World.....and good luck with your channel Don.
Very nice bathroom.
Thank you Vince
Awesome thanks for the video Paul 👍.. Even the pros get nicks and pimples 😁
Lol....thanks Mike.
Conclusion: Razors look similar, - shave similar!) Thanks for nice flower, again, and my congratulation!)
Thank you.
Did you ever get that dot left of your left eye checked out by a doctor? It's definitely gotten a lot bigger over the few years I've been watching your videos. My wife's brother's fiance had a dot kind of like that and it ended up being skin cancer. They caught it in time and removed it successfully and she's all good thankfully. I hope it's nothing (and really I hope you've already gotten it checked and already know it's nothing)
Yes, I showed it to a Doctor a couple of years ago, her said it was something to do with pigment, just being produced more there.
That's great news! Cancer sucks so bad...
My progress level 3 = 4.5 on the Variant.
Ah right, interesting to see peoples comparisons on the settings....thanks.
The Parker is aesthetically more pleasing.
shaving is just madness :-D
It is, and expensive madness too sometimes..lol
A tighter fixed head is better iI IMHO
Hello how are you, I'm Rajan Sharma from INDIA, I always feel that MERKUR razors glides better over the skin and cuts the whiskers better than PARKER razors although PARKER razors are made in India and are very easily available but I daily shave with my MERKUR 37C and love it, variant is nice for me for touch ups only.
Отличное бритьё !! ) жаль не понимаю английский. 👍
Спасибо за просмотр :-)
PaulHFilms скажите , а что вам понравилось больше ?Прогресс лонг или Parker ?
I have Progress it is very good excellent but Futur is Rols Roy's for All razors.
Futur is sunsficktion.
PROGRES is nice I like him .as second razor I wood like to by Start 2 and Diplomat from Rassia razor.ans Rockwell T2.for small bard King C Gillette is the best.from China
I prefer Merkur couse Germany better than India)
Thank you .
merkur always made overpriced rubbish. the vision and futur were terrible