I've been using a Futur for about 15 years now and while I can see his perspective on being afraid of the blade securement; I lean more towards his was faulty or something. Mines 15 years old and I have never felt any wiggling of the blade. I just now grabbed it and the blade is super secure even on the highest setting. For anyone out there looking for a razor don't be afraid of the blade securement, The Futur secures the blade extremely well at least in my experience with it. It all comes down to personal preference, but I thought I would just share my thoughts and opinions since I had a very different experience.
Matt Allen when you change the length settings on your futur is there a noticeable change in the length? My blade doesn’t seem to move much regardless of the setting. Think it might be faulty...
I want you to know that I was between the Futur, Supply Pro, and leaf Thorn and because of your comment, it made me purchase the Futur a couple days ago! Moving from a Bevel razor
On my Futur, the top cover starts to move a little bit at positions close to the number 6 from the box. At the initial positions, everything is monolithic. I don't see a problem here, it's not enough strong to worry about it.
I used a Gilette adjustable for 40 years until I tried the Futur. I have NO concerns about the cap staying tight and I don’t notice any “chatter.” The Futur is heavier and I don’t “feel” the cut as much as I seem to “hear” the beard being cut. Maybe that’s what you are hearing. Additionally, you have a Gillette adjustable in your own kit. You should be very expert at using it because you resolved the learning curve on that model many years ago. I suspect that is why you have such a positive experience when using it. I loved the Gilette that my Dad handed down to me, which I used for most of my life. But, after I had gotten some experience with my Futur, I set it out on the counter for my daily driver and left the Gilette in the cabinet. One advantage to the Gilette is that its more durable and maintenance free over time. You need to take the Futur apart occasionally to clean it. Merkur does NOT provide any instructions for that but a Futur can seize-up and lose its ability to be adjustable if you don’t do a little maintenance. BTW-Push up on the cap of the Future from the bottom on one side to open and its both easy and safe. One side of the cap has a lip to accommodate your thumb as you perform this maneuver.
I'm afraid I have to disagree with you. I've been shaving with the Futur for a couple of months now and I assure you that the clip on head is quite sturdy. I have absolutely no play in it and I open it after every shave to clean it all up. For me, and of course everybody is different, it's one of the best razor out there shaving at 3 WTG and 1 XTG/ATG, if not the best! As for the nose area, I use the tip of the head and I easily shave every hair with no cuts or nicks. But hey, I love that you give your honest opinion!
Maxime Desaulniers Boisvert I have one as well and have no issues at all. I don’t think he is a fan of Merkur at all. I love all my Merkur’s. I also have fat boys and techs and super speeds etc they are all great in their own way.
Every video I've seen where someone uses a Vision, they get like 5 or 6 weepers. Not surprised that you *almost* nicked yourself there, I think it has to be the all time champ for weepers per UA-cam video for DE razors at least.
I wouldn’t expect such contrast razor designs to shave the same. I went from a super speed to a futur and never looked back. Took me a few shaves to really get acquainted with it.
I get bbs shaves with the Futur at 0.5. I used to shave at 3 and higher but realised that 0.5 is just as good. The shave doesn't go any faster above 0.5 or 1.0 with mild blades. So I'm surprised you couldn't feel the blade at 1.0. Even at 0.5 the blade gap is huge.
I have the Futur and a Fat Boy, and I use both on their highest settings, six and nine. I like both. The Fat Boy is more maneuverable because of its compactness,, but the Futur gives a better shave.
I've been wet shaving for about five years and I bought a Merkur Futur a few years ago. It turned out to be a terrible shaving razor...The weight of the head somehow kept resulting in gashes on my cheekbone just lowering the razor to my face, the corner of the razor blade nicked me regularly because it's exposed (as mentioned in the video) and it just generally made me dread shaving again. It went into the junk drawer and I bought a Fatboy on Ebay for about $65 that I cleaned up and is now one of my two regular razors, along with an Ikon X3 slant. I'm thinking of getting a Gillette Slimline just to try it out, but the Fatboy is just as good as the video indicates.
Sorry my last comment! I dont "odeio" the Merkur Futur was the write checker on portuguese! I order the Merkur Futur! Should arrive today(friday) I Will give it a test and see if i like it not send to Amazon again! Thank you
After hearing you talk about the Gillette Fatboy I decided to head over to your store and purchase my very own 1960 restored Gillette Fatboy! Its a little costly, but I figure why not... you only live once and I shave every other day... I'll use it like you mentioned on one of your videos, while I'm learning to straight razor shaving. I can jump to the Fatboy to finish up my shave in the areas I'm not ready to use the straight edge yet! Thanks so much for your knowledge and experience Matt!
I still use my father’s Gillette safety razor from WWll. I don’t know what model it is but I believe it was issued in his combat pack by the US Army. I use a Merkur Super....fantastic shave. I’ve shaved every day for the past 45 years with every type of razor from a Remington Triple head electric to a Art of Shaving straight razor and everything in between. Cartridge razors are great for quick shaves when time is limited and you a “5 o’clock shadow”. But for me it’s my dads ... hands down.. Now, I must say I can get just as close a shave with the Merkur Supers as I get with my straight razor. I do have, but never used my grandfather’s straight razor from Italy. Thanks for all the great content. Never knew that such a mundane daily routine for me had such a following on social media. Thanks Rocco
I like the future's blade grip best. It's less less mechanical with fewer moving parts. That's a good thing for durability. I've had problems with the threads getting f-ed up on DE razors in the past. And not from over-screwing.
I think for a first use of a razor, certain expectations are in place and when that is not met, it leaves us dissatisfied. I have had this happen, but needed several more shaves to adapt to the nuances of a different razor. So really it may just be, like first moving from cartridge to DE shaving, call for further adjustment to experience the strange razor's full potential.
I own 3 Futurs. One in every color. I LOVE them. They are my favorite. Your gripes are sorta nit picky honestly. I NEVER had an issue with anything you complained of. Once the razor is set as far as where you want it you shouldn't be messing with it but even if i adjust it mid shave i NEVER had any issues with it slipping from my fingers, even if they are wet. I use mine 2 to 3 times a week and i have NO complaints. It is the best razor i have ever used. Admit it... You are just a complete Gillette fanboy.
I’ve had acne problems shaving with cartridge razors and after watching every single one of your videos I bought a DE. I wake up every morning excited and happy that i shave now! Your channel helped clear up my face and give me confidence! Thanks dude!
Fell in love with my 1959 "Fatboy" from the very first stroke! I bought it from the son of the original owner and it's still going strong at 59 years old... ... my little piece of America at its finest!
I love my Merkur Futur. It provides an amazing shave, but does require great (though not faultless) technique. I also appreciate Matt's videos. Every video or comment that I have seen that criticizes the Futur (including this video) always engages in a self-fulfilling prophecy. The person is scared of the Futur for whatever reason and becomes overly cautious or use faulty technique. Then, they cut themselves and blame the razor or some aspect of it (its weight, its securement). People who try the Futur next are fearful of its reputation and continue the cycle. Notice how much more confident and better Matt's technique was with the Fatboy? The Futur will shave your upper mustache hairs beautifully and precisely. Just put it where you want it and let it do the work. Those who are thinking about the Futur, I cannot recommend it enough. Just give yourself a minute to get comfortable, and it will reward you. On the higher settings, we are taking straight razor closeness with the safety of a DE. On the lower settings, you can even rush. It's easy to clean, grip, and manuever. I wouldn't even consider buying another razor at this point.
I order the Merkur Futur, should arrive tomorrow or friday! I follow your tops for sensitive skin: cold water, pre shave proraso white, good soap(proraso Red but for mistake The Red!!!i just order two white), good brush and sharp blade and Nívea sensitive pro!!!shaving only ti the Grain and across and i feel the diference rigth away!!! Thank you soo much Have a very very good 2025! Best wishes from Azores, Portugal I feel the dure
Matt Great comparison, wish you thru in the Ambassador. I tried the future and thought the head plate was plastic. Vision head was way too huge. Have a FatBoy but prefer the slim
I have a Futur and yes it does take a little getting use to. I pair it up with Feather blades and use on setting 2.5 and 3. Not a bad razor when you get the hang of it but yes the head is a little bulbous.
I am not able to shave daily or go bbs without risking ingrown hairs and nicks. So I let it grow for a few days before I can shave again. My hair is very coarse and wiry. Do you or anyone else have this issue?
I agree about the problem with the Merkur Futur being difficult to adjust trouble is we cannot get Gillett Fatboys out here in Australia we can only get those plastic horrors.
Hi Matt, awesome video and I appreciate how detailed you are in your comparisons. I'm knew to the safety razor world and I have been watching all your comparison videos throughout my journey in finding what is suitable for me. I'm currently leaning towards a Gillette Fat Boy but also have my eyes on a Feather AS-D2 and a Timeless razor. However, in doing some on line research I cam across the Jack Black safety razor. I haven't found a whole lot of information or reviews on it so I wanted ask have you had any experience with the Jack Black safety razor or the product line?
The Merkurs just take getting used to. I get a good three pass shave from the Vision and the Merkur using a Feather blade. You need to push your nose up to shave the nostril area. The Vision needs to be taken apart and cleaned during every blade change.
Just looking at the big, clunky & awkward profile on the Mukur Vision and comparing it with any of my Techs, makes me thankful that all of my Techs are so slim & provide such a great shave, that I have no reason to go looking for some other razor.
Stumbled across this channel a few days ago. Now I own 5 vintage Gillette's...Damn you Matt you've got me so hooked. I'm giving razors away as presents for all my family so they can experience the joy of shaving and saving.
This is an excellent video that looks at so many aspects of using a DE shaver. My inexpensive futur knock off behaves much like the Futur Matt is using. I find it interesting that Matt uses Poraso soap as it is very inexpensive. I use Poraso green and find that it lasts longer than most soaps and performs better.
Btw you don't need to clean the blade exactly each time you shave one part. You can shave the whole place of your side face with both edges before you clean it. So you make the video not that long.
I own all three of these. The vision is an investment, I agree, it's too bulky and the angle is too steep. I have a few fats and slims, they are hardly used either, but the future is my all time favourite razor. Lay the cap in your palm, load the blade in it, then press the razor down on it. That's the safe way. The Chinese copies are almost as good so maybe try one of those instead.
Never got on with the Vision just too clunky but I was completely in love with the Futur for a little while. I've a Gillete adjustable given to me new as a first razor by my father but it is a rough shave compared to any comparable 3 piece razor. Adjustable - I'd rather have the Progress.
Merkur lost the patent for Futur. I've used the Q Shave for years and never had a problem with the cap coming off. It gives better shaves than the Fat Boy; no clicks, continuous precise adjustment. The Q Shave handle is too smooth to hold. So you rinse the handle and keep shavin'. Good vid.
Great video.. I was thinking about getting a modern double edge safety razor and I'll stay away from the Futur. Bought a Gillette Fat Boy a week ago its the non adjustable C 1 is on the bottom of the blade holder. Anyways got significant razor burn my first shave with the FB. I know the FB is a great razor i just have to get use to it. Gives a really great shave. I have been using cartridge blades all my life and will continue to use them since i get a good shave from them.
PearlJammer07 try a variety of blades. Even if you cant adjust the aggressiveness of the razor you can choose a different blade. Get a blade that is a little less sharp. That way you can have more control of your shave..
Dude, what are you doing making videos? Get in the back room packaging up my REX Ambassador Adjustable 🤣😂🤣 Seriously, I love my Made to Order Gillette $1.59 Fatboy, it is my favorite razor, followed by the Feather AS-D2, then the Merkur Futur and my Made to Order Gillette 40's style Aristocrat. I appreciate your comment about the lack of modern adjustable razors, the Feather just by lucky happenstance is set at the aggressiveness I like, but would prefer it adjustable. I look forward to getting my REX Ambassador in the near future 😉
William Tubb, I tried that Feather. NICE. But that pricetag.... WOW!!! If you have that much money to spend, you should try a OneBlade. It is also very nice. And there are different heads so that you can fine tune it to your tastes.
Good video, fare-ish comparison. I think the Futur is a fantastic shaving tool, the Vision on the other hand is as sloppy and cumbersome looking as that Omega brush.
Merkur futur over the Gillette fatboy any given day of the week. Not sure what you mean by head chattering, this razor is solid and has a good weight to it.
Good afternoon Matt! Thanks for doing this comparison. You reaffirmed my belief that Gillette Adjustable razors superior because they are aesthetically pleasing and work as they should. I tried a few strokes with a Futur, but the deal breaker was its awkwardness under the nostrils. Even the Fat Boy isn't great in that department, just superior to the Futur. Slim and Super adjustable deliver the best shaves in that challenging area. Well done!
Thank you, Matt. I thought it was just me! I have a Gillette Black Beauty (long handle) and one of the Chinese Merkur Futur knock-offs. I find that both give comparatively good shaves. I prefer the maneuverability of the Gillette and, like you, I too dislike the Futur's style of blade adjustment and blade exchange (I haven't cut my self yet - it's just a matter of time.)
I have a Black Beauty and found it felt very top (head) heavy and there wasn't much clearance between my chest and the bottom of the handle when shaving my neck. A Fat Boy cured both, the balance is much more even top to bottom, and the short handle means there's no chance of poking my chest with the very bottom of the handle.
I brought a £4.99 (around $6) Wilkinson classic de razor, last time I used a de razor was 1984, used disposable from that time, am still too scared to use it after 15 months. Oh dear, hopefully some time. By the way, you look so much better clean shaven. If you had my face, you would be happy to hide it, under a beard. Lol.
If you still haven't used it, I suggest you give it a try as the Wilkinson classic is known to be very mild and safe even for the most inexperienced of shavers. The drawback of it being so mild is that you have to do a 3 pass shave to get very smooth
Hi Matt, It's no surprise that the Merkurs shave like they look, which is horrible! I use my rhodium Fatboy that you revamped and love it as well. Probably second favorite at this point is the Rockwell 6S, but I can't wait to get the Rex adjustable when you ship it. Maybe you can do a comparison shavings with the Rex, 6S, and Fatboy?
Judgment clear and done in the first minutes of the video - before shaving. What was the purpose? Share your subjective feelings about engineering and construction surely didn’t help anyone in their purchase decision 🤣 Always amazing how you can shave without getting your T-shirt soaked with soap 🏆
I have a Qshave adjustable which is the direct clone of the futur. It's horrible. Even on low settings, it shaves like wild animal. Getting a clean shave under the nose requires careful ATG strokes.
It's interesting that you so often reach for the Fatboy. I started out with the usual Kronas, Knacks, Superspeeds, Slims and a Black Beauty. The Fatboy was on my list of gotta-haves that would round out my adjustable razor accumulation. Got a nice one "cheap" and upon delivery that wanting is more overrated than actual having. Try as I might, the Fatboy takes a back seat to my Favorite Super Adjustable. I'll return to the Fatboy and spend more time matching it to an optimum blade, but it just didn't jump up and want to make me put it into my top favorite slot. I've more recently branched out to Gillette Old Types, New Types and Techs. I require an excellent shave and I want it FAST. The 3 piece style razors, open combs especially, give me the best shave with the least effort, and with the widest variety of blades. In fact, the 3 piece 'Tech' clones (some with parts interchanging with an actual Gillette) are noteworthy. To determine just HOW good the inherent design, I bought an über-cheap Chinese 3-piece, complete with plastic handle and stainless bottom tray. My expectations were commensurate with the pricetag, but the actual results were deceptively impressive. The cheap-o razor shave equalled that of my bestest Gillette Tech . I'd like to see a showdown between one of the spendy, high dollar modern razors vs a vintage Gillette Tech - either open comb or closed bar. I'll wager that the time-tested old timer will take the day over the pricey big bucks razor ...
Men save your money buy yourself a brush and kiss my face shave cream its as good as anything currently available and can be sourced at local health food stores. You don't need all this stuff to get a close shave.
I've been using a Futur for about 15 years now and while I can see his perspective on being afraid of the blade securement; I lean more towards his was faulty or something. Mines 15 years old and I have never felt any wiggling of the blade. I just now grabbed it and the blade is super secure even on the highest setting. For anyone out there looking for a razor don't be afraid of the blade securement, The Futur secures the blade extremely well at least in my experience with it. It all comes down to personal preference, but I thought I would just share my thoughts and opinions since I had a very different experience.
Matt Allen when you change the length settings on your futur is there a noticeable change in the length? My blade doesn’t seem to move much regardless of the setting. Think it might be faulty...
I want you to know that I was between the Futur, Supply Pro, and leaf Thorn and because of your comment, it made me purchase the Futur a couple days ago! Moving from a Bevel razor
@@bilcohare it's a change in blade gap, not length
On my Futur, the top cover starts to move a little bit at positions close to the number 6 from the box. At the initial positions, everything is monolithic. I don't see a problem here, it's not enough strong to worry about it.
I used a Gilette adjustable for 40 years until I tried the Futur. I have NO concerns about the cap staying tight and I don’t notice any “chatter.” The Futur is heavier and I don’t “feel” the cut as much as I seem to “hear” the beard being cut. Maybe that’s what you are hearing. Additionally, you have a Gillette adjustable in your own kit. You should be very expert at using it because you resolved the learning curve on that model many years ago. I suspect that is why you have such a positive experience when using it. I loved the Gilette that my Dad handed down to me, which I used for most of my life. But, after I had gotten some experience with my Futur, I set it out on the counter for my daily driver and left the Gilette in the cabinet.
One advantage to the Gilette is that its more durable and maintenance free over time. You need to take the Futur apart occasionally to clean it. Merkur does NOT provide any instructions for that but a Futur can seize-up and lose its ability to be adjustable if you don’t do a little maintenance. BTW-Push up on the cap of the Future from the bottom on one side to open and its both easy and safe. One side of the cap has a lip to accommodate your thumb as you perform this maneuver.
Passing comment about the cold water may be a game changer for me.
I'm afraid I have to disagree with you. I've been shaving with the Futur for a couple of months now and I assure you that the clip on head is quite sturdy. I have absolutely no play in it and I open it after every shave to clean it all up. For me, and of course everybody is different, it's one of the best razor out there shaving at 3 WTG and 1 XTG/ATG, if not the best! As for the nose area, I use the tip of the head and I easily shave every hair with no cuts or nicks. But hey, I love that you give your honest opinion!
Maxime Desaulniers Boisvert I have one as well and have no issues at all. I don’t think he is a fan of Merkur at all. I love all my Merkur’s. I also have fat boys and techs and super speeds etc they are all great in their own way.
@@vladimirlopez7840 ... Complaining about not to be able to adjust it safely, adjusts it while shaving without effort :)
Every video I've seen where someone uses a Vision, they get like 5 or 6 weepers. Not surprised that you *almost* nicked yourself there, I think it has to be the all time champ for weepers per UA-cam video for DE razors at least.
I wouldn’t expect such contrast razor designs to shave the same. I went from a super speed to a futur and never looked back. Took me a few shaves to really get acquainted with it.
I have the Merkur Futur and a Gillette Slim (You restored my Slim for me.). I prefer the Slim as far as adjustables go.
Thanks for the video!
I get bbs shaves with the Futur at 0.5. I used to shave at 3 and higher but realised that 0.5 is just as good. The shave doesn't go any faster above 0.5 or 1.0 with mild blades. So I'm surprised you couldn't feel the blade at 1.0. Even at 0.5 the blade gap is huge.
I have the Futur and a Fat Boy, and I use both on their highest settings, six and nine. I like both. The Fat Boy is more maneuverable because of its compactness,, but the Futur gives a better shave.
I love my Futur razor!
Kirk Bacon love mine as well
I've been wet shaving for about five years and I bought a Merkur Futur a few years ago. It turned out to be a terrible shaving razor...The weight of the head somehow kept resulting in gashes on my cheekbone just lowering the razor to my face, the corner of the razor blade nicked me regularly because it's exposed (as mentioned in the video) and it just generally made me dread shaving again. It went into the junk drawer and I bought a Fatboy on Ebay for about $65 that I cleaned up and is now one of my two regular razors, along with an Ikon X3 slant. I'm thinking of getting a Gillette Slimline just to try it out, but the Fatboy is just as good as the video indicates.
I quickly got used to the Futur's quirks and sold my Gillettes. I get a closer shave with less effort from the Merkur.
I have to agree, my junk is as smooth as it was the day I came out of the womb.
Sorry my last comment! I dont "odeio" the Merkur Futur was the write checker on portuguese! I order the Merkur Futur! Should arrive today(friday) I Will give it a test and see if i like it not send to Amazon again!
Thank you
After hearing you talk about the Gillette Fatboy I decided to head over to your store and purchase my very own 1960 restored Gillette Fatboy! Its a little costly, but I figure why not... you only live once and I shave every other day... I'll use it like you mentioned on one of your videos, while I'm learning to straight razor shaving. I can jump to the Fatboy to finish up my shave in the areas I'm not ready to use the straight edge yet! Thanks so much for your knowledge and experience Matt!
My first DE razor is Merkur Futur and it's amazing!
To be honest I have a futur and I love to shave often
I still use my father’s Gillette safety razor from WWll. I don’t know what model it is but I believe it was issued in his combat pack by the US Army. I use a Merkur Super....fantastic shave. I’ve shaved every day for the past 45 years with every type of razor from a Remington Triple head electric to a Art of Shaving straight razor and everything in between. Cartridge razors are great for quick shaves when time is limited and you a “5 o’clock shadow”. But for me it’s my dads ... hands down.. Now, I must say I can get just as close a shave with the Merkur Supers as I get with my straight razor. I do have, but never used my grandfather’s straight razor from Italy.
Thanks for all the great content. Never knew that such a mundane daily routine for me had such a following on social media.
Thanks
Rocco
The vision was my first DE razor. I love it, but you made me curious about Gillette. Thank you for this comparison.
I like the future's blade grip best. It's less less mechanical with fewer moving parts. That's a good thing for durability. I've had problems with the threads getting f-ed up on DE razors in the past. And not from over-screwing.
I think for a first use of a razor, certain expectations are in place and when that is not met, it leaves us dissatisfied. I have had this happen, but needed several more shaves to adapt to the nuances of a different razor. So really it may just be, like first moving from cartridge to DE shaving, call for further adjustment to experience the strange razor's full potential.
I own 3 Futurs. One in every color. I LOVE them. They are my favorite. Your gripes are sorta nit picky honestly. I NEVER had an issue with anything you complained of. Once the razor is set as far as where you want it you shouldn't be messing with it but even if i adjust it mid shave i NEVER had any issues with it slipping from my fingers, even if they are wet. I use mine 2 to 3 times a week and i have NO complaints. It is the best razor i have ever used. Admit it... You are just a complete Gillette fanboy.
I would highly appreciate it if you could please make a video about how to disassemble the Gillette slim. 😄😄
Ben Jones noted
Interesting review. I started DE shaving a year ago with my Futur which I really like. About to buy a Slim Adjustable as my second daily shaver.
I’ve had acne problems shaving with cartridge razors and after watching every single one of your videos I bought a DE. I wake up every morning excited and happy that i shave now! Your channel helped clear up my face and give me confidence! Thanks dude!
I’ve noticed that you only like the razor setting when I can hear your hairs get cut but if it’s really loud you won’t like it lol
So how do you like the 99r or the cheaper butterfly razors in comparison to the fatboy?
Fell in love with my 1959 "Fatboy" from the very first stroke!
I bought it from the son of the original owner and it's still going strong at 59 years old...
... my little piece of America at its finest!
Can't find Merkur Vision for sale anywhere. Wish they would made them again...
I love my Merkur Futur. It provides an amazing shave, but does require great (though not faultless) technique. I also appreciate Matt's videos.
Every video or comment that I have seen that criticizes the Futur (including this video) always engages in a self-fulfilling prophecy. The person is scared of the Futur for whatever reason and becomes overly cautious or use faulty technique. Then, they cut themselves and blame the razor or some aspect of it (its weight, its securement). People who try the Futur next are fearful of its reputation and continue the cycle. Notice how much more confident and better Matt's technique was with the Fatboy?
The Futur will shave your upper mustache hairs beautifully and precisely. Just put it where you want it and let it do the work. Those who are thinking about the Futur, I cannot recommend it enough. Just give yourself a minute to get comfortable, and it will reward you. On the higher settings, we are taking straight razor closeness with the safety of a DE. On the lower settings, you can even rush. It's easy to clean, grip, and manuever. I wouldn't even consider buying another razor at this point.
Which has the widest blade aggression settings between the Rec Ambassador and Merkur Futur
gap is only 1 variable with razors. guard width, blade angle and other variables will change the shave completely.
I really ❤️ love your channel the Muker futuer is one of my fav ...
kenneth w. Davis thanks!
I order the Merkur Futur, should arrive tomorrow or friday!
I follow your tops for sensitive skin: cold water, pre shave proraso white, good soap(proraso Red but for mistake The Red!!!i just order two white), good brush and sharp blade and Nívea sensitive pro!!!shaving only ti the Grain and across and i feel the diference rigth away!!!
Thank you soo much
Have a very very good 2025!
Best wishes from Azores, Portugal
I feel the dure
Looking back to the past tells me the merkur has no FUTUR in my shave den.
"Futur" ... is NOT the german word for future!
"Zukunft" ... is the german word.
"Futur" is latin ;)
Thank you !
Or French :)
pretty sure he was kidding
Matt Great comparison, wish you thru in the Ambassador. I tried the future and thought the head plate was plastic. Vision head was way too huge. Have a FatBoy but prefer the slim
I have a Futur and yes it does take a little getting use to. I pair it up with Feather blades and use on setting 2.5 and 3. Not a bad razor when you get the hang of it but yes the head is a little bulbous.
I am not able to shave daily or go bbs without risking ingrown hairs and nicks. So I let it grow for a few days before I can shave again. My hair is very coarse and wiry. Do you or anyone else have this issue?
I agree about the problem with the Merkur Futur being difficult to adjust trouble is we cannot get Gillett Fatboys out here in Australia we can only get those plastic horrors.
I’m in Australia and bought the Rex Ambassador a couple of months ago. An absolutely wonderful razor that is so high quality it will last till my son.
Hi Matt, awesome video and I appreciate how detailed you are in your comparisons. I'm knew to the safety razor world and I have been watching all your comparison videos throughout my journey in finding what is suitable for me. I'm currently leaning towards a Gillette Fat Boy but also have my eyes on a Feather AS-D2 and a Timeless razor. However, in doing some on line research I cam across the Jack Black safety razor. I haven't found a whole lot of information or reviews on it so I wanted ask have you had any experience with the Jack Black safety razor or the product line?
Dude, describe the razor before you lather up.
There is no reason to leave the soap to dry on your face while talking.
abrahamchapman thanks for the feedback!
You are worthy of a comfortable shave
The Merkurs just take getting used to. I get a good three pass shave from the Vision and the Merkur using a Feather blade. You need to push your nose up to shave the nostril area. The Vision needs to be taken apart and cleaned during every blade change.
Would love a comparison video between the Fatboy and super slim!
I also do a 1 pass shave and i just recently bought a Parker Variant. Great video, I avoided the 2 Merkur razors for the same reasons.
Bike Dude I picked the Parker because is had better knurling, the bottom dial was metal, and it was cheaper than the Merkur.
Bike Dude most likely, also the Parker is a 2 piece razor and not a TTO like most Parkers
Just looking at the big, clunky & awkward profile on the Mukur Vision and comparing it with any of my Techs, makes me thankful that all of my Techs are so slim & provide such a great shave, that I have no reason to go looking for some other razor.
Stumbled across this channel a few days ago. Now I own 5 vintage Gillette's...Damn you Matt you've got me so hooked. I'm giving razors away as presents for all my family so they can experience the joy of shaving and saving.
Thanks for watching Buddha Mack!!!
This is an excellent video that looks at so many aspects of using a DE shaver. My inexpensive futur knock off behaves much like the Futur Matt is using. I find it interesting that Matt uses Poraso soap as it is very inexpensive. I use Poraso green and find that it lasts longer than most soaps and performs better.
Where are you Razor Emporium? You havent uploaded for 5 months.
My vision locked up wonder if they refurbished
Do you ship to the UK .?
yes of course- the entire world over ;)
Gotta send in my Slim for some refurbing soon.. good stuff.
M Moore NGAS or NGAF?
Hi sir,where i cant buy Gillette fatboy ?
Btw you don't need to clean the blade exactly each time you shave one part.
You can shave the whole place of your side face with both edges before you clean it. So you make the video not that long.
I own all three of these.
The vision is an investment, I agree, it's too bulky and the angle is too steep.
I have a few fats and slims, they are hardly used either, but the future is my all time favourite razor.
Lay the cap in your palm, load the blade in it, then press the razor down on it. That's the safe way. The Chinese copies are almost as good so maybe try one of those instead.
Never got on with the Vision just too clunky but I was completely in love with the Futur for a little while. I've a Gillete adjustable given to me new as a first razor by my father but it is a rough shave compared to any comparable 3 piece razor. Adjustable - I'd rather have the Progress.
When I bought my Merkur Vision I knew the moustache area was going to be an issue thus bought the Merkur moustache and eyebrow razor problem solve.
Merkur lost the patent for Futur. I've used the Q Shave for years and never had a problem with the cap coming off. It gives better shaves than the Fat Boy; no clicks, continuous precise adjustment. The Q Shave handle is too smooth to hold. So you rinse the handle and keep shavin'. Good vid.
Great video.. I was thinking about getting a modern double edge safety razor and I'll stay away from the Futur. Bought a Gillette Fat Boy a week ago its the non adjustable C 1 is on the bottom of the blade holder. Anyways got significant razor burn my first shave with the FB. I know the FB is a great razor i just have to get use to it. Gives a really great shave. I have been using cartridge blades all my life and will continue to use them since i get a good shave from them.
Shame on you!
PearlJammer07 try a variety of blades. Even if you cant adjust the aggressiveness of the razor you can choose a different blade. Get a blade that is a little less sharp. That way you can have more control of your shave..
I have the fatboy and the Futur, and i use the Futur 99% more. It gives a closer shave by far
The comment section here just sold me on a Futur. I’ve been shaving with a DE razor for 10 years and need something new in the rotation.
And? Love mine, btw.
Why haven't u try shavette video? I think it will be awesome.
Add some water to that lather!
What`s a "pif"?
I found over 50 abbreviations :/
Made me curious hehe ;)
Jan, in case you're still following this thread, "PIF" in this context means "pay it forward," as in gifting a razor or product to someone.
Gillette had many decades to get the adjustable razors perfect, all other manufactures have to come up with other ways to do the same job
Dude, what are you doing making videos? Get in the back room packaging up my REX Ambassador Adjustable 🤣😂🤣
Seriously, I love my Made to Order Gillette $1.59 Fatboy, it is my favorite razor, followed by the Feather AS-D2, then the Merkur Futur and my Made to Order Gillette 40's style Aristocrat. I appreciate your comment about the lack of modern adjustable razors, the Feather just by lucky happenstance is set at the aggressiveness I like, but would prefer it adjustable.
I look forward to getting my REX Ambassador in the near future 😉
William Tubb, I tried that Feather. NICE. But that pricetag.... WOW!!! If you have that much money to spend, you should try a OneBlade. It is also very nice. And there are different heads so that you can fine tune it to your tastes.
Good video, fare-ish comparison. I think the Futur is a fantastic shaving tool, the Vision on the other hand is as sloppy and cumbersome looking as that Omega brush.
Merkur futur over the Gillette fatboy any given day of the week. Not sure what you mean by head chattering, this razor is solid and has a good weight to it.
Good afternoon Matt! Thanks for doing this comparison. You reaffirmed my belief that Gillette Adjustable razors superior because they are aesthetically pleasing and work as they should. I tried a few strokes with a Futur, but the deal breaker was its awkwardness under the nostrils. Even the Fat Boy isn't great in that department, just superior to the Futur. Slim and Super adjustable deliver the best shaves in that challenging area. Well done!
Would love a Vision razor.
Please do a video of how to shave a full grown beard with a safety razor.
I have found the Gillette slim has better control for under your nose. The futur feels like I’m having an affair” great but can’t do it all the time”.
Thank you, Matt. I thought it was just me!
I have a Gillette Black Beauty (long handle) and one of the Chinese Merkur Futur knock-offs. I find that both give comparatively good shaves. I prefer the maneuverability of the Gillette and, like you, I too dislike the Futur's style of blade adjustment and blade exchange (I haven't cut my self yet - it's just a matter of time.)
I have a Black Beauty and found it felt very top (head) heavy and there wasn't much clearance between my chest and the bottom of the handle when shaving my neck. A Fat Boy cured both, the balance is much more even top to bottom, and the short handle means there's no chance of poking my chest with the very bottom of the handle.
Matt, you should have added into the mix a new razor on the market... The Rex Ambassador
Blain N we didn't want to be biased with that comparison. Plus it is not released yet. Worry not we will be making many videos with it soon!
What is your name?
slim adjustable, fatboy, and black beauty adjustable... black beauty is my favorite.. easiest shave.
Honest comparison from an uber Gillette enthusiast! You look WAY BETTER clean shaven thanks for the video
Luca Noris, I think the tester was honest. But I also think he was biased!
I brought a £4.99 (around $6) Wilkinson classic de razor, last time I used a de razor was 1984, used disposable from that time, am still too scared to use it after 15 months. Oh dear, hopefully some time. By the way, you look so much better clean shaven. If you had my face, you would be happy to hide it, under a beard. Lol.
If you still haven't used it, I suggest you give it a try as the Wilkinson classic is known to be very mild and safe even for the most inexperienced of shavers. The drawback of it being so mild is that you have to do a 3 pass shave to get very smooth
i cannot stand my Futur. shaved it one earlier today. i'm done with it.
Why should I buy a hundred dollar razor to drag a double edged blade across my face everyday?
Hi Matt, It's no surprise that the Merkurs shave like they look, which is horrible! I use my rhodium Fatboy that you revamped and love it as well. Probably second favorite at this point is the Rockwell 6S, but I can't wait to get the Rex adjustable when you ship it. Maybe you can do a comparison shavings with the Rex, 6S, and Fatboy?
Leo Dodier The Rex will shave like a Merkur pal, since the Gibbs (which Matt copied) and Progress heads are much alike.
Leo Dodier no problem we would be glad to do a comparison
JM JM with respect, the Ambassador shaves differently and better than a progress.
RazorEmporium I don't doubt that , I wouldn't think you'd go to the trouble you have otherwise.
Wait for the model T, otherwise it would not be fair, with all the base plate changing
Feel like you're trying to sell Gillette
Matt where are you my Freind I miss you
Could you say there's a noticeable between 120$ and 12$. I don't believe so. A razor is a razor... The holder isn't so important. It's the blade.
"Zukunft" is German for future... I assume Futur is their attempt to make a catchy Brand name that evokes "future"...
Judgment clear and done in the first minutes of the video - before shaving.
What was the purpose?
Share your subjective feelings about engineering and construction surely didn’t help anyone in their purchase decision 🤣
Always amazing how you can shave without getting your T-shirt soaked with soap 🏆
Who are talking to Casper the friendly ghost lmao
boycott Gillette
@ludlow 889 remember do not buy their blades..
Too bad Astra is made by Gillette. Just started to get into de and I'm liking Astra so far.
@@KillerofGods oh my god.. and I just bought vintage gillette tech British made number 23. Also 5 Astra blades included..
I've avoided all things Gillette for a long time, because they're owned by P&G, who have an absolutely horrible ethical record.
The reason I’m researching alternatives today. I’m done with Gillette.
I have a Qshave adjustable which is the direct clone of the futur. It's horrible. Even on low settings, it shaves like wild animal. Getting a clean shave under the nose requires careful ATG strokes.
It's interesting that you so often reach for the Fatboy. I started out with the usual Kronas, Knacks, Superspeeds, Slims and a Black Beauty. The Fatboy was on my list of gotta-haves that would round out my adjustable razor accumulation. Got a nice one "cheap" and upon delivery that wanting is more overrated than actual having. Try as I might, the Fatboy takes a back seat to my Favorite Super Adjustable. I'll return to the Fatboy and spend more time matching it to an optimum blade, but it just didn't jump up and want to make me put it into my top favorite slot.
I've more recently branched out to Gillette Old Types, New Types and Techs. I require an excellent shave and I want it FAST. The 3 piece style razors, open combs especially, give me the best shave with the least effort, and with the widest variety of blades.
In fact, the 3 piece 'Tech' clones (some with parts interchanging with an actual Gillette) are noteworthy. To determine just HOW good the inherent design, I bought an über-cheap Chinese 3-piece, complete with plastic handle and stainless bottom tray.
My expectations were commensurate with the pricetag, but the actual results were deceptively impressive. The cheap-o razor shave equalled that of my bestest Gillette Tech .
I'd like to see a showdown between one of the spendy, high dollar modern razors vs a vintage Gillette Tech - either open comb or closed bar.
I'll wager that the time-tested old timer will take the day over the pricey big bucks razor ...
Men save your money buy yourself a brush and kiss my face shave cream its as good as anything currently available and can be sourced at local health food stores. You don't need all this stuff to get a close shave.