The Design94 Infinity Average Result: BBS Composite Score: 30/40 The Infinity is a bit of an anomaly. Although it shares the same basic architecture as the classic Hybrid design, its efficiency and overall performance tend to be higher than many of the razors that share its common DNA. The defining attribute of a Hybrid is a clamp width between 12–16mm, the distance measured between the widest points at which the blade is clamped. The classic Hybrid design features two pillars, or ridges, that rise from the base plate to make contact with the top cap and secure the blade. Interestingly, the design first appeared in the UK in 1927, developed by two little-known British inventors, John Henry Morgan and Alfred Stewart Mumme. The design was later sold to Wardonia UK, which appears to have licensed it to Merkur before it eventually evolved into the legendary Model 34. Interestingly, proponents of this design language have largely been concentrated in Germany. In 2007, Mühle, working with Edwin Jagger, introduced a similar architecture with the R89/DE89. Then, in 2014, Giesen & Forsthoff launched the strikingly similar three-piece Timor. Finally, Design94 introduced its first model using the same basic architecture in 2021. All are Hybrids with clamp widths of approximately 12mm. However, despite sharing the same basic structure of twin pillars and a roughly 12mm clamp width, the Design94 is markedly different from its predecessors. The challenge common to all Hybrids is that, because the blade is clamped roughly halfway between its center and cutting edge, it tends to suffer from flex, or chatter, reducing both efficiency and comfort. This is because the blade is neither supported close to its edge nor bent sufficiently to create rigidity through torsion. The Design94 also exhibits some noticeable flex, but where it departs from the others is in its much wider blade gap and unique blade exposure. The Design94’s blade gap is a prodigious 1.1mm, a size that usually requires at least a modicum of caution and skill. Although the 34C’s blade gap is not officially published, it is believed to be around 0.70mm, similar to the Timor and Yaqi Orion, while the R89 is estimated at only 0.45mm. But the single biggest difference, and the Infinity’s defining characteristic, is its blade exposure. While the others are all neutral to slightly positive, Design94 publishes an exposure of negative 0.05mm. Or at least, that is what they say. The feel and efficiency of the Design94 simply do not suggest a razor with negative exposure, and it is ShaveSplash’s contention that, in practice, this is not really the case. On close inspection of the top cap, two raised bumps can be seen that appear to create a flat ribbon designed to control the movement of the head against the skin. If a straight line is drawn from the top of the bump to the shave guard, the resulting shave plane does indeed appear to place the blade edge behind that line, creating negative exposure. However, after numerous shaves with the Design94, ShaveSplash does not believe this is the shave plane actually utilized during the shave. The bump may instead force the skin to fold slightly lower, pushing it into the true shave plane created by the broader curvature of the top cap. Therefore, while the geometrically calculated exposure from the top of the hump may be negative, the effective exposure along the functional shave plane is positive, and by no small margin. ShaveSplash would estimate effective exposure at between +0.10 and +0.20mm, placing it in the realm of some famously efficient razors such as the Blackland Blackbird, Tatara Nodachi, Wolfman WR1 0.74, or even the Timeless 0.78. And herein lies the secret power of the Design94. Its effective exposure is formidable, and when combined with its substantial blade gap, it delivers tremendous shaving power. As a result, its Efficiency is Medium-High, scoring a 9, with an average result of BBS. However, it cannot entirely escape its Hybrid genealogy and the resulting lack of blade rigidity. Comfort noticeably suffers as a result, scoring only a 7. Consistency is sound, with repeatable and predictable results, earning an 8. But the combination of a wide gap, high effective exposure, and noticeable blade flex creates a recipe for mishaps and requires both practice and careful attention, particularly when paired with a sharp blade. Cuts, nicks, and weepers appeared during multiple early test runs, and for this reason Ease of Use was scored at 6. So while the Design94 delivers an impressively close shave, it comes at a price. Its titanium construction is precise, and its mirror polish is lustrous. At 75g, it feels nimble while still possessing enough weight to feel substantial. Essentially, it is the same razor as Design94’s first titanium edition launched in 2021, which received a Special Mention at the German Design Award in 2022. The aluminum Aviation94 and steel-headed Life series from 2023 share identical head dimensions, with a 1.1mm gap and stated exposure of -0.05mm, although the Infinity is the first to feature a 92mm handle with a new three-sided fluting pattern. In addition, the Infinity is bundled with a matching titanium stand, the first in the series to allow the razor to stand upright. Hybrid Razor Comparison Among Hybrids, its Composite Score of 30 is above the class average of 29, and it is one of only two to achieve an average result of BBS or better. The best-performing Hybrids tend to employ trapezoidal head shapes that create additional torsion and rigidity by bending the blade downward to better control flex, as seen in the Maxwell June, Yates Winning, and class-leading Stando Sarmata. Among non-trapezoidal Hybrids, however, the Infinity is the most efficient, and its Composite Score is surpassed only by the Hone Type 15, Rocnel 304, and SV 2.0, all of which emphasize Comfort and Ease of Use over outright Efficiency. For lovers of fine workmanship, innovative design, and a close shave with a healthy growl, the Design94 Infinity should be on the short list. See the full ShaveSplash Review of the Design94 Infinity here Read the Art & Science of Razor Evaluation to learn about our scoring methodology Visit Design94 to learn more about the Infinity

ShaveSplash: The Rabbit Hole Gen 2.0 is now live on Android, and I’m incredibly excited to finally share it with the community. This is easily the biggest step forward for ShaveSplash so far. Gen 2.0 takes ShaveSplash beyond being just a personal wet shaving app and turns it into a much more connected platform built around your collection, your shave history, and the community itself. At the center of the new experience is the ShaveSplash Den, which now lives in the cloud. That means your Den is no longer limited to your phone. You can access and manage it from any PC at https://shavesplash.app, making it much easier to organize your razors, brushes, soaps, aftershaves, and other gear wherever you happen to be. One of the features I’m most excited about is the new ShaveSplash Buy/Sell/Trade marketplace. Every user has access to the BST, and your Den is connected directly to it. If there’s something in your collection you want to sell, you can move it from your Den into the marketplace quickly and conveniently instead of starting a listing from scratch. The idea is to make collecting, buying, selling, and trading feel like one seamless experience. The ShaveSplash BST also includes something I think is especially useful for collectors: item alerts. With an Expert membership, you can set alerts for specific products you’re looking for and receive a notification when a matching item becomes available. So instead of constantly checking forums, Facebook groups, and marketplaces hoping that elusive razor, soap, or aftershave finally pops up, ShaveSplash can keep an eye out for you. Gen 2.0 also introduces a public forum built directly into ShaveSplash. It gives everyone a dedicated place to ask questions, share discoveries, talk about products, compare experiences, and simply enjoy the hobby with other wet shavers. Along with direct messaging, SOTD posts, and the BST, the forum helps turn ShaveSplash into a true community hub rather than just another shaving utility. Shave Logs have also become much more social. When you log a shave, ShaveSplash can automatically turn it into an SOTD-style post for the community to see. It makes sharing your shave much easier, while also helping build a broader picture of what people across the community are actually using, enjoying, buying, and rating. There’s a lot more packed into Gen 2.0 as well, including direct messaging, expanded community tools, advanced analytics, and deeper insight into community trends. The bigger idea behind all of this is to bring your Den, shave history, marketplace activity, forum discussions, reviews, and community interactions together into one connected experience. And just as importantly, ShaveSplash remains free to use for all of the core features. You can build and manage your Den, participate in the public forum, use the BST, log your shaves, share with the community, and explore the platform without a subscription. Expert membership adds premium features such as BST alerts and other enhanced tools for those who want to take things a little further. Gen 2.0 is launching on Android first, with iOS coming shortly afterward. You can download ShaveSplash: The Rabbit Hole now on Google Play: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.vibecode.shavesplash And you can access ShaveSplash Community on the web here: https://shavesplash.app I’ve been looking forward to getting this version into everyone’s hands for quite a while. Gen 2.0 feels like the point where ShaveSplash really starts becoming the platform I always hoped it could be, and I’m genuinely excited to see how the community uses it. Give it a try, explore the new features, join the conversation, and please let me know what you think.

https://dogood.t2t.org/campaign/strike-gold-shave-9-11-never-forget-collection-fundraiser-2026/c813904 As we approach the 25th Anniversary of September 11, 2001, we pause to honor the lives lost, the families forever changed, and the brave first responders who answered the call without hesitation. In remembrance of this historic day, Strike Gold Shave is proud to partner with the Shave Dad Wet Shaving Forum to release a special collection of shave soaps, aftershaves, and body products. This limited-edition fundraiser is dedicated to preserving the memory of those we lost and honoring the courage, sacrifice, and resilience displayed on that day and in the years that followed. This collaboration carries special meaning, as both the founder of Strike Gold Shave and the founder of the Shave Dad Wet Shaving Forum are retired police officers who dedicated their careers to serving and protecting their communities. Together, we share a commitment to ensuring that the legacy of 9/11 is never forgotten. Tunnel to Towers was founded in honor of FDNY firefighter Stephen Siller which provides mortgage-free homes to Gold Star and fallen first responder families, supports catastrophically injured veterans and first responders, and carries forward the spirit of service and sacrifice exemplified on September 11th. Through the wet shaving community, we hope to unite people in remembrance while giving back to an organization that continues to make a meaningful difference in the lives of our nation's heroes and their families. We invite you to join us in honoring the 25th Anniversary of 9/11. The Strike Gold Shave collection will be available exclusively through Strike Gold Shave and promoted in partnership with the Shave Dad Wet Shaving Forum on Facebook. Never Forget. Honor. Remember. Give Back. About Tunnel to Towers Make a donation in support of the Tunnel to Towers Foundation. Since 9/11, Tunnel to Towers has been supporting America's first responder and military heroes. Do good and help America to Never Forget 9/11 and the sacrifices of its heroes.

Kilimanjaro Pete Hendrix made a bold and perceptive choice in selecting Byredo’s Bal d’Afrique Absolu as the inspiration for Kilimanjaro. Although the original Bal d’Afrique became enormously popular, the Absolu moved the composition in a decidedly different direction. It stepped away from the lighter, greener, more floral character of the original and moved toward a warmer amber profile with clear gourmand leanings. Two new notes were central to that transformation: praline and black amber. Both proved somewhat divisive, but together they created a fragrance that is sweet, creamy, and richly textured without becoming cloying or oppressive. Even more surprisingly, the composition remains perfectly suited to warmer weather. The quiet heart of Kilimanjaro is praline, a word many of us have heard but may not have experienced. A praline is a confection made from caramelized sugar and nuts, bringing to mind the warm aroma of the New York City street vendors who sell bags of freshly candied almonds and cashews near Central Park. Hendrix wisely keeps this note restrained. Even so, it infuses the fragrance with an unmistakable caramel richness and nudges the composition away from a traditional amber and toward the gourmand family. The other defining element is black amber, a warm and resinous accord with suggestions of dark woods, along with faint leathery and smoky undertones. It gives Kilimanjaro depth and sensuality, grounding the sweetness of the praline and lending the fragrance a darker, more sophisticated foundation. Given these two dense and sugary notes, both commonly associated with cooler weather, it feels like a bit of olfactory alchemy that Kilimanjaro remains light and gentle enough for the heat. The secret lies in two additional elements. Blackcurrant introduces a tart, sharp, and distinctly green quality. It is reminiscent of crushed fern leaves, snapped green sapplings, and dark berries still clinging to the stem. Blackcurrant also appears prominently in Creed Aventus, where it contributes to that fragrance’s unmistakable freshness and energy. A strong note of lemon then brightens the opening. It cuts through the richness of the praline and black amber while combining with the tart greenness of the blackcurrant to give the fragrance a crisp and luminous lift. Without these brighter notes, Kilimanjaro might easily have become heavy. Instead, it remains vibrant, airy, and remarkably well balanced. Pete Hendrix has created a fragrance with a genuinely distinctive place in the artisan wet shaving catalog. Gourmand compositions built around notes such as praline are difficult to execute. They can quickly become thick, overly sweet, and exhausting. Kilimanjaro avoids those traps entirely. Instead, it is playful, delectable, and delightfully unexpected. It has enough sweetness to feel indulgent, yet enough freshness to remain lively and versatile. It is equally at home during an active summer weekend, beside a fire on a warm evening, or even in a more formal setting. Kilimanjaro is special, original, and unlike nearly anything else in the artisan wet shaving world. It is also a new ShaveSplash favorite. Shave Soap Details Find Kilimanjaro at the Razor Company Read the Full ShaveSplash Review

PILS 104NL Average Result: BBS- Composite Score: 32 The PILS 104NL is, in a word, elegant. It even looks gentlemanly, with its black acrylic handle making the razor appear as though it were dressed in a tuxedo. Everything about the razor reflects quality and refinement, from its solid 112g weight to its tight tolerances, graceful curves, and restrained blade presentation. The 104NL is a variant of the iconic 101NE. Mechanically the two razors are identical, with the only difference being the handle. Instead of a solid stainless steel bar, the 104NL uses a smooth black acrylic sleeve over what appears to be a steel core. ShaveSplash chose the 104NL not only because of its distinguished appearance, but also because the acrylic wrapped handle is slightly thicker than the all steel version, which better suits our preference for larger grips. The reduction in weight from 123g to 112g also makes the razor feel a little more nimble, although the balance shifts slightly toward the head. Like the razor itself, the history of PILS is distinctive and, to some extent, mysterious. The company was founded in Stuttgart, Germany, in 1980 by Werner PILS, a former sales director in the fragrance and cosmetics industry who believed the market lacked truly premium men's grooming products. Long before artisan safety razors became commonplace, PILS was applying industrial design and precision machining to traditional wet shaving. Werner retired in 2003 and sold the company to Micha Birkhoffer, who also came from the fragrance business. Although the exact introduction date remains uncertain, the now famous 101NE appears to have entered the market during Birkhoffer's tenure in the late 2000s. Whatever its exact origins, it has become one of the longest standing designs among modern artisan safety razors and remains instantly recognizable today. The design itself is unlike anything else currently available. CNC machined from stainless steel, the 104NL is a two-piece razor in which the handle and baseplate remain permanently attached, while the handle rotates freely. As the threaded stud from the top cap engages the baseplate, the handle is simply turned to tighten the assembly. The top cap is equally distinctive, with side flanges that fold neatly over the blade. The alignment posts are located on the baseplate rather than the cap. They hold the blade securely, but the cap must be seated carefully to ensure the blade is clamped evenly. Architecturally, the 104NL is a classic Edge Clamper with a clamp width of 19 mm. The top cap is also 19 mm wide, leaving a 1.5 mm blade reveal that produces the familiar T shaped profile seen on razors such as the Wolfman. Unlike many razors, however, the baseplate contributes very little additional curvature. Even the bevel near the outer edge remains remarkably flat, allowing the blade to lie almost straight throughout its length. Because the top cap maintains continuous contact with the blade across its full width, rigidity is excellent, with only the faintest trace of blade flutter during the shave. That blade orientation defines the character of the razor. The 104NL performs best at an exceptionally shallow shaving angle, with the cap at a 15-20% degree angle from the skin and the handle approaching perpendicular to the face. Those who naturally ride the cap will adapt immediately, while shavers accustomed to steeper angles may need several shaves before finding its sweet spot. PILS publishes no technical specifications, but by observation ShaveSplash estimates the blade gap at roughly 0.6 mm with slightly positive blade exposure. Running a piece of cardboard across the shave plane supports that assessment. The engineering translates directly into the performance scores. The narrow blade gap and restrained exposure bridle Efficiency at 6, but thanks to excellent blade rigidity Comfort earns a 9. Ease of Use also receives a 9. Once the proper angle is found, the razor becomes remarkably forgiving. Consistency scores an 8 because the shallow shaving angle leaves less room for variation than razors with a more neutral geometry. The result is a Composite Score of 32, placing the 104NL toward the upper end of the BBS- category, which corresponds to a 5 on the ShaveSplash nine-point scale. The comparison that comes most readily to mind is the Karve Overlander. While both razors produce similar shave results, they arrive there through different engineering solutions. The Overlander uses an 18 mm clamp width, but pairs it with a 19.5 mm top cap that extends over the blade to provide additional support and reduce blade reveal to roughly 1.25 mm. Equipped with the 4” inch handle, it weighs 113g, almost identical to the PILS, although its balance feels noticeably more neutral. Karve Overlander Both razors display exceptional machining, beautiful polishing, and forgiving shave characteristics. Both also produce consistently close shaves without demanding perfect technique. The Overlander gradually separates itself in small but measurable ways. Efficiency is slightly higher and, with additional buffing, it can occasionally reach the BBS/BBS- category. Blade support is marginally better, which improves Comfort. Its more balanced weight benefits Ease of Use. Finally, because it naturally encourages a shaving angle closer to thirty degrees, it is easier to shave consistently, giving it a modest advantage in Consistency as well. The PILS 104NL succeeds because it offers something beyond shave performance. It has an unmistakable personality, combining elegant styling, distinctive engineering, and meticulous craftsmanship into a razor that feels genuinely special every time it is picked up. Enthusiasts who appreciate thoughtful industrial design, precision machining, and the history of modern artisan razors will find much to admire. It could easily become a daily driver for those who enjoy its shallow angle technique. For buyers searching for a single razor where absolute performance is the only priority, ShaveSplash gives a slight edge to the Karve Overlander. For those who appreciate originality as much as results, however, the PILS remains one of the hobby's true classics. ShaveSplash uses a Personna GEM Diamond Glide blade for all its testing and performs a traditional 3-pass shave. To learn more about our testing methods see here. See the Full ShaveSplash Review Here See the ShaveSplash Razor Ranking Here Read More About The Art & Science of Razor Evaluation Visit PILS to Learn More and See the Full Line Up

Shannon Logan from Elysian writes... Icing. Premium quality shaving soap in a delicious lemon and mint fragrance. Inspired by a decadent slice of iced lemon cake and the dog days of summer, this shaving set delivers a sweet gourmand fragrance that melts into a mentholated freeze. The scent opens with a zest punch of organic lemon essential oil, softened by creamy vanilla bean and delicate florals. Just as the taste of deliciousness settles, a refreshing wave of peppermint, eucalyptus, and crisp menthol takes over, leaving your skin feeling intensely revived. The entire experience is rounded out by a clean cedar wood base. The full set includes a 4 oz premium men's shaving soap and matching 100 ml aftershave splash. SOAP INGREDIENTS: Distilled Water, Grass Fed Beef Tallow, Stearic Acid, Coconut Oil, Castor Oil, Shea Butter, Glycerin, Kaolin Clay, Tussah Silk, Xanthan Gum, Essential Oil, Fragrance. 
 AFTERSHAVE INGREDIENTS: 100% Organic Witch Hazel, Perfumers Alcohol, Aloe Vera Juice, Hyaluronic Acid, Marshmallow Root Extract, Sweet Almond Oil, Vitamin E, Liquid Germall Plus, Polysorbate 80, Fragrance and Essential Oil. Available at Elysian Soap Shop Look for it at the Razor Company

Montrose Beach Montrose Beach is a joyous burst of sun-drenched fun. The opening is strikingly reminiscent of sugar-crusted dried pineapple: the chewy, intensely fruity kind you might buy in a candy store, sticky with sweetness and almost impossible to resist. Interestingly, pineapple is not listed among the fragrance notes. Instead, the effect seems to be coaxed from the composition through a clever interplay of coconut, eucalyptus, and florals. The dried coconut provides the tropical foundation, while eucalyptus contributes a cool, camphorous brightness that can read almost like sharp green fruit. Blended together, they create a tangy, prickly zing that feels unmistakably pineapple-like. Jasmine adds a ripe tropical facet, while carnation gives the accord a further lift. Yet Montrose Beach never collapses into syrup or simple sweetness. Vetiver and driftwood dry the composition down, adding texture, restraint, and a multi-layered sense of craftsmanship. The sea salt and seaweed are subtle, almost imperceptible at first, but they linger in the background and reinforce the imagery of sandy beaches, warm skin, and holiday sunsets. The result is one of the most intriguing summer scents ShaveSplash has reviewed. ShaveSplash is admittedly partial to coconut accords, which are notoriously tricky to blend and rarely executed this well, but Montrose Beach stands out for more than that. It is original, transportive, and remarkably effective at evoking tropical fun and ease while still feeling sophisticated and complex. ShaveSplash views Montrose Beach as a masterwork and a must-own summer scent for the wet shaving enthusiast. Read the Full ShaveSplash Review Here Find it Here at the Razor Company

The TGS Dominus Average Result: DFS+ Composite Score: 26/40 The Goodfellas’ Smile Dominus is an unusual razor on several fronts, beginning with its material choice. Chrome-plated brass is not especially common in today’s artisan razor market, and TGS goes further by specifying the exact alloy: CW510L PB1, also known as CuZn42. This is a very low-lead brass with a high zinc content and roughly 57–59% copper, a material more often associated with plumbing and fittings than premium safety razors. TGS appears to be emphasizing the environmental angle, noting the alloy’s extremely low lead content of around 0.1%. The Dominus is billed as 100% CNC-machined and then chrome-plated. Chrome plating is more often associated with zamak razors, but it makes sense here as a protective layer over brass, helping prevent tarnish and corrosion as long as the plating remains intact. The result is a razor with crisp lines and noticeably better tolerances than a die-cast zamak razor, though it still feels just shy of the precision normally associated with uncoated CNC-machined stainless steel or titanium. At 101 grams, the Dominus has satisfying heft and feels nicely balanced. Architecturally, the Dominus falls into ShaveSplash’s Hybrid category, with a Clamp Width of 13mm. Hybrids sit between classic Blade Benders and Edge Clampers, using some degree of blade curvature while still leaving a meaningful portion of the blade unsupported near the edge. This category tends to produce lower Composite Scores than the more clearly defined classes, and the Dominus largely follows that pattern. Dominus Has a Hybrid Architecture Its most striking design choice is the very narrow top cap. At only 17.5mm wide, it leaves a pronounced Blade Reveal of 2.25mm on each side. The stated Blade Exposure is extremely high at 0.25mm, a level rarely seen in modern safety razors. That positive exposure is visible to the naked eye and can be confirmed by running a thin piece of cardboard along the shave plane. The Blade Gap is also large at 0.85mm, putting both of its major blade specs in the zone normally associated with high efficiency. Interestingly, despite the wasp-stinger reveal, jutting exposure, and formidable gap, blade feel is only moderate. That is likely because so much of the blade is unsupported by the narrow top cap and modest clamp width, allowing the blade to flex rather than present itself as a rigid edge. Unfortunately, that noticeable blade flex is also what holds the Dominus back. While it helps cushion the exposure against the face, it also reduces cutting authority and can introduce discomfort. Because so much of the blade is revealed and unsupported, the razor performs best at a shallow angle, slightly below the roughly 30-degree angle many consider neutral. The motion feels almost like pushing the blade edge forward in a subtle scything action, trying to keep the edge stable as it cuts. With this technique, a sharp blade is preferred because more of the cutting power needs to come from the blade edge rather than its motion. Because of the flex and the slightly tricky shallow posture required, both Consistency and Ease of Use suffer. Despite the large 0.85mm Blade Gap and 0.25mm Blade Exposure, raw efficiency is held back by the clearly apparent blade flutter. The end result was on the lower side for ShaveSplash, finishing at DFS+. Another unusual design choice is that the blade posts are located on the baseplate rather than the top cap. Although the posts are oblong, which should improve blade stability once everything is tightened down, placing them on the baseplate makes blade loading less intuitive. TGS has not explained this choice, but it may relate to the top cap’s extremely light and thin construction. At only 9 grams, the cap may have been designed more as a thin clamping shell than as a structural alignment piece, leaving the baseplate to handle blade alignment. The baseplate is also blind, with no cutouts or lather channels. That is another atypical choice, though in practice lather flow was adequate and there were no obvious signs of clogging. The razor most similar to the Dominus is the little-known but excellent Rocnel 304. Like the Dominus, the 304 is an odd duck, with a 12mm Clamp Width and an enormous 2.5mm Blade Reveal, the largest ShaveSplash has tested. This is due to its similarly slender 17mm top cap. Where the 304 differs is in its wider 25mm baseplate and noticeably lower blade exposure. Interestingly, the 304 also uses a blind baseplate. The magic of the 304 is that its wider baseplate elongates the shave plane and, somewhat unintuitively, protects the skin from blade flex by keeping exposure low. The result is low efficiency, even lower than the Dominus, but with exceptionally high Comfort and Ease of Use. In fact, the Rocnel 304 remains a ShaveSplash favorite. If nothing else, the Dominus is an interesting razor. The handle is grippy and well sized at 90mm, the overall build quality is satisfying, and at its price point it feels like a good value. It brings an unusual material, unusual architecture, and a genuinely distinctive shave character. But in a direct comparison with the Rocnel 304, ShaveSplash would choose the latter. The Dominus is more assertive and more technically curious, but the 304 turns its odd geometry into a smoother, easier, and more enjoyable shave. ShaveSplash uses a Personna GEM Diamond Glide blade for all its testing and performs a traditional 3-pass shave. To learn more about our testing methods see here. See the full review here The Dominus Can be Purchased at the Razor Company here

Evaluating a razor is deeply personal. Some shavers chase the traditional three-pass shave. Some want a one-pass BBS. Some want maximum efficiency. Others simply want a relaxing ritual at the sink. At ShaveSplash, we believe there are very few truly “bad” razors. We love them all. But after years of testing, comparing, and shaving with a wide range of designs, we’ve developed a system to better understand the subtle architectural differences that shape razor performance. Some of what we measure is empirical. Much of it remains subjective. And that is exactly what makes razor evaluation so fascinating. It is a true blend of art and science. The numbers can guide us, but the final judgment always belongs to the shaver. Performance Many shavers define razor performance in the simplest possible terms: how close does it cut? But closeness is only one part of the story. Some shavers prioritize safety and want to minimize nicks, weepers, and irritation. Some have sensitive skin and need a razor that feels smooth and forgiving. Others value speed, ease, or predictability that a razor will deliver the same result every time. The ShaveSplash system evaluates a razor across four attributes: Efficiency, Comfort Ease of Use, and Consistency. No single attribute is treated as more important than the others. Some razors are defined by one exceptional strength. Others sacrifice in one area to excel in another. But in our view, true performance is found in the combined effect of all four. That combined number is what ShaveSplash calls the Composite Score. Scores Wet shavers often describe razors as either “mild” or “aggressive.” Those words are useful, but they can also be imprecise. They blend two very different ideas into one impression: how the razor feels and how closely it cuts. To capture performance more accurately, ShaveSplash separates those ideas into Efficiency and Comfort. Efficiency measures how closely a razor cuts on a single stroke. This is what we think of as raw efficiency. Comfort measures how gentle the razor feels on the skin. A razor that causes irritation, weepers, or nicks loses points here. At first glance, Efficiency may seem like the most important attribute. But over time, we’ve found that raw efficiency alone does not always produce the best shave. A razor may cut extremely close on a single pass, but if it feels harsh or uncomfortable, the shaver may not be able to tolerate additional strokes or touch-ups. Another razor may be highly efficient, but demand such intense focus that one lapse in attention leads to a poor result. In those cases, the razor’s raw efficiency is high, but its practical or “net” efficiency is much lower. That is why ShaveSplash relies on the Composite Score. It gives a fuller picture of how a razor performs in the real world, not just in theory. The four ShaveSplash scores are: Efficiency: How closely the razor cuts on a single stroke. This is raw cutting power. Comfort: How gentle the razor feels on the skin. Irritation, weepers, and nicks lower this score. Ease of Use: How much effort, technique, and concentration the razor requires. The more skill required to master it, the lower the score. Consistency: The razor’s ability to reproduce the same outcome shave after shave. Each attribute is scored from 1 to 10, for a maximum Composite Score of 40. A razor can achieve a high Composite Score in different ways. Some razors score high because they are extremely efficient. Others may have moderate Efficiency but excel in Comfort, Ease of Use, and Consistency. That kind of razor may not appeal to someone chasing maximum closeness, but for a shaver who values an easy, enjoyable daily shave, it may be close to perfect. Results Scores describe a razor’s attributes. Results describe the final shave. To capture the actual outcome, ShaveSplash uses a nine-level results scale ranging from Damn Fine Shave to Baby Butt Smooth Plus: DFS = Level 1 DFS+/DFS = Level 2 DFS+ = Level 3 BBS-/DFS+ = Level 4 BBS- = Level 5 BBS/BBS- = Level 6 BBS = Level 7 BBS+/BBS = Level 8 BBS+ = Level 9 This distinction between Scores and Results is important. A razor may have an Efficiency score of 9, meaning it cuts very closely on a single stroke. But if its Comfort score is low, the shaver may be unable to buff comfortably. If its Ease of Use is low, the razor may require too much concentration to use safely or consistently. In that case, the final result may only be BBS/BBS-, even though the razor’s raw efficiency is excellent. In other words, Scores explain the razor. Results explain the shave. The ShaveSplash Razor Scores & Results The full razor universe table ranks each razor by final Result. This gives readers a broad view of how the razors performed in actual shaving outcomes, rather than simply comparing individual specifications in isolation. Razor Architecture and Performance The most commonly discussed physical characteristics of a safety razor are blade gap and blade exposure. Both matter. But in our testing, they are often insufficient to predict how a razor actually performs. A razor can have neutral exposure and still be highly efficient. The Tedalus Velocity One is a perfect example. On paper, it may not look extreme. On the face, it is exceptionally capable. As ShaveSplash analyzed its scoring data across many razors, one physical characteristic emerged as especially predictive of overall performance. It was not blade gap. It was not blade exposure. It was Clamp Width. ShaveSplash defines Clamp Width as the distance between the farthest points at which the blade is clamped when viewing the razor head from the side. Examples of Clamp Width Clamp Width matters because it determines how securely the razor holds the blade. In general, the more securely the blade is held, the higher the Composite Score. The reason is simple: almost every performance attribute suffers when a blade flexes during the shave. This flexing is often called blade chatter. As the blade moves, skips, or vibrates across the skin, it can create an uneven cutting action. That may lead to micro-cuts, irritation, reduced comfort, less predictability, and a less refined final result. In our framework, blade stability is one of the hidden engines of razor performance. Razors generally create blade stiffness in two ways. They either clamp the blade close to its cutting edge, or they bend the blade to create torsion. Clamp Width is the key measurement that helps distinguish between these two design approaches. Blade Benders A narrow Clamp Width means the blade is primarily secured near the center by the base plate and top cap. This allows the blade to bend downward, creating stiffness through torsion. Two classic examples are the Blackland Blackbird, with a Clamp Width of 7mm, and the Tedalus Velocity One, with a Clamp Width of 8mm. ShaveSplash classifies razors with a Clamp Width of roughly 7mm to 11mm as Blade Benders. These razors do not achieve blade control by clamping near the edge. Instead, they create rigidity by bending the blade into a controlled arc. When executed well, this can produce a shave that feels both efficient and highly engaging, with strong blade feel and excellent cutting authority. Blade Benders Among Blade Benders, the relationship between Clamp Width and Composite Score is especially strong, despite being inverse. In the ShaveSplash dataset, Clamp Width explains a meaningful portion of the variation in overall performance, with an R-squared of 0.70. Edge Clampers A wide Clamp Width means the blade is held closer to its outer edge. This shortens the unsupported portion of the blade and reduces the distance available for flex. Classic examples include the Lambda Athena and the Mühle R41, both with a Clamp Width of 20mm. ShaveSplash classifies razors with a Clamp Width of roughly 17mm to 21mm as Edge Clampers. These razors create stability by controlling the blade near the cutting edge. When done properly, the result is a firm, secure blade presentation that can improve comfort, consistency, and cutting precision. Edge Clampers Among Edge Clampers, the relationship between Clamp Width and Composite Score is also strong, with an R-squared of 0.55 in the ShaveSplash dataset. Edge Clampers tend to benefit from controlling the blade near the cutting edge. That design choice can reduce chatter, improve precision, and support a smoother, more predictable shave. Hybrids Not every razor fits neatly into the Blade Bender or Edge Clamper categories. Some designs sit between the two, with a Clamp Width of roughly 12mm to 16mm. ShaveSplash classifies these razors as Hybrids. Because Hybrids generally do not create the dramatic torsion of a classic Blade Bender, or clamp the blade as close to the cutting edge as a true Edge Clamper, they tend to produce the lowest Composite Scores in the ShaveSplash dataset, averaging roughly 10% to 13% below the other categories. The strongest Hybrids appear to compensate through top-cap geometry. Razors such as the Henson AL13 and Stando Sarmata use a trapezoidal top cap, where the steep side slope seems to add blade tension and improve stiffness. This suggests that while Hybrids may sit in the middle architecturally, smart geometry can still make them excellent performers. Hybrids Why Clamp Width Matters A stable blade tends to cut more cleanly. It is less likely to skip, chatter, or punish small mistakes. It can feel smoother, more predictable, and more efficient in practical use. That is why ShaveSplash has found a meaningful relationship between Clamp Width and Composite Score. The best razors are not necessarily the ones with the largest blade gap or the most dramatic exposure. They are often the razors that manage the blade most effectively. And in our testing, Clamp Width has become one of the most important clues to understanding how a razor turns design into performance. The Shaver Still Gets the Final Word The ShaveSplash scoring system is designed to create structure, not certainty. Razors are tools, but they are also personal objects. Beard type, skin sensitivity, blade choice, technique, water, lather, and even mood can change the experience. A razor that feels perfect to one shaver may feel ordinary to another. A razor that scores highly in the ShaveSplash system may not be the right razor for every face. That is why ShaveSplash razor review pages allow users to enter their own scores for Efficiency, Comfort, Ease of Use, and Consistency. The goal is not to declare one universal winner. The goal is to build a richer, more useful understanding of razor performance....one shave, one score, and one shaver at a time. As always, Your Mileage Will Vary! See the ShaveSplash interactive Razor Ranking here See the ShaveSplash Razor Reviews here See the ShaveSplash Razor Finder here

Glenn Sherman is a passionate wet shaving enthusiast and the host of The Luxury Shaving Hobbyist on YouTube, where he has been sharing his love of the hobby with the community for more than four years. A familiar face at gatherings such as the Maggard meetup and the Razor Emporium meetup, Glenn was inspired to create something the Mid-Atlantic wet shaving community had never had before: a major meetup of its own. After a great deal of planning and hard work, that vision is now becoming a reality. ShaveSplash was fortunate to catch up with Glenn to learn more about the event. Here’s Glenn... Glenn, for people who may not know you yet, can you tell us a little about your background and how you first found your way into traditional wet shaving? I am retired from a very rewarding career in Hospital Administration. I live in Media, Pennsylvania, which is about 30 minutes Southwest of Philadelphia. Back in 2020, I happened to be thinking of my Dad, who passed away in 1993. I remembered that he used Old Spice, and I wanted to experience that scent again. I picked up a bottle, and was disappointed that the scent wasn’t what I actually remembered. I did a search online and learned that the original “Shulton” formula had changed. I came across a product called Reserve Spice made by Barrister and Mann. Purchased a bottle of the aftershave, and by golly, that was the scent that I remembered. That was the start of my wet shaving journey. What was the moment when wet shaving went from being just a better way to shave to becoming a real hobby for you? What is it you love about the hobby and the community? As I began to explore online, I found the Facebook Groups, Instagram pages, and YouTube channels that were related to wet shaving. The hobby kicked in when I realized how much choice there was out there when it came to scents, types of razors, brushes, bowls….yep, I was hooked. I was driven to experience as much as I could. I love the hobby because it not only provides an outlet for me to stay creative, it allows me to develop connections with like individuals as well as some deep friendships You run the Luxury Shaving Hobbyist channel — what made you decide to start creating content, and what has surprised you most about being a wet shaving YouTuber? I really enjoyed watching many of the wet shaving YouTube channels and just wanted to give it a shot. I felt a tremendous need to continue to accomplish something. I missed the stimulation of being in the work environment. My biggest shock in the process of creation was the amount of time required for editing and polishing the videos. The Great Mid-Atlantic Wet Shavers Meetup looks like a major undertaking. What inspired you to organize an event like this? I attended a number of events over the last few years including the Maggard meetup in Michigan and the Razor Emporium meetup in Arizona and I really enjoyed them. There really hasn’t been anything at that level in the Mid-Atlantic states. I figured that I would just take the bull by the horns and do it. Build it and people will come. What do you think makes in-person wet shaving meetups special compared with interacting online through YouTube, Facebook groups, forums, or Instagram? It is actually really satisfying meeting the folks that you interacted with online in person. You already have so much in common. The flyer lists artisans, educational sessions, door prizes, swag bags, a PIF table, and trivia. What kind of experience are you hoping attendees have when they walk through the door? I wanted to hold a Meetup that was a little different from others currently out there. The educational aspect of the event not only gives the attendees a chance to learn something new but also provides for a deeper understanding and deeper appreciation of the art of wet shaving. There are a lot of artisan names on the flyer — Barrister and Mann, Ethos, Hoffman’s, Stirling, Strike Gold, Rodak Ceramics, Shaving Grace, and others. What has the response been like from artisans and supporters? Response has been extremely positive. I think that the exposure to over 100 wet shaving enthusiasts is definitely a draw. For someone who is newer to wet shaving and maybe feels intimidated walking into a room full of experienced hobbyists, what would you say to them? It can feel a bit intimidating at first, but the wet shaving community is generally one of the most welcoming hobby communities out there. A few things to know: Enthusiasts love talking about their hobby. Experienced wet shavers are typically thrilled to meet someone new to the craft. Expect questions like “what razor are you using?” and genuine enthusiasm to share tips and recommendations. Looking beyond this year’s meetup, what would success look like to you? Is the goal to make this an annual Mid-Atlantic tradition, grow the community, support artisans, or something more personal? Putting an event like this together requires a great deal of time, coordination, follow up, and planning. If we are successful this year and people find it worthwhile, I may try doing it again next year. Indicators for success would be attendee turnout and artisan satisfaction. My goal is to do what I can to help this wonderful hobby continue to provide to others what it provided to me. When people leave the meetup that afternoon, what do you hope they’re talking about on the drive home? I don’t want them to talk about how to hide their new purchases from their spouses. Only kidding… I hope that they talk about what they learned, who they met, and how incredible Philly cheesesteaks are! Glenn Sherman To get a ticket for the event contact Glenn at gbsher@icloud.com Check out the Luxury Shaving Hobbyist on Youtube

Strike Gold Shave Frank Misa of Strike Gold writes.... If you're looking to create a single signature fragrance that captures the essence of Strike Gold's patriotic/presidential scents while adding the rugged character of many presidents, We have blended the themes rather than simply stacking all the notes together. Presidential Reserve -Concept Blend! Top Notes Bergamot Lemon zest Crisp apple White pepper (representing the fresh, clean opening often found in Washington, Kennedy, and White House-style scents) Heart Notes Tobacco leaf Leather Cedarwood Lavender Sage (capturing the masculine, presidential, barbershop, and statesman character of Abe, Kennedy, and Trump) Base Notes Oakmoss Sandalwood Vetiver Bourbon vanilla Gunsmoke accord Aged wood smoke Amber Bringing together the rugged Americana touch of Gunsmoke and Wood Smoke like the 4th of July while maintaining refinement! Fragrance Description "A walk through American history. Bright citrus and crisp apple open over a distinguished heart of tobacco, leather, cedar, and sage. The fragrance settles into rich oakmoss, sandalwood, and vetiver, wrapped in touch gunsmoke and aged wood smoke from a crackling campfire. Refined enough for the Oval Office, rugged enough for the frontier." Visit Strike Gold Shave to Learn More and Purchase Use Code SHAVESPLASH for 10% off

Ariana & Evans LATHERED 2026 is a first-of-its-kind expo celebrating craftsmanship, creativity and scent, bringing together 14 carefully curated vendors from the indie fragrance and artisan grooming communities. Attendees will have the opportunity to discover unique fragrances, premium grooming products, and meet the makers behind some of the most exciting brands in both industries. The event takes place on August 9, 2026, from 1:00 PM to 6:00 PM in a stunning Brooklyn warehouse loft that has served as the backdrop for movie productions, music videos, fashion shoots, and special events. Adding to the experience, renowned Italian barber Daniele Maullu will travel from Rome to offer traditional straight razor shaves, showcasing the timeless artistry of classic Italian barbering. Guests will enjoy complimentary hors d’oeuvres, wine, and cheese while exploring the exhibitor floor. Admission is free. As of June 18th, vendors include: First Line Shave, Gentlemans Nod, Ariana & Evans, The Razor Co, Adopted Acres, House of Oubliette, FranchyPR Parfums, The Ephemeral Archive, Fine Tuned Fragrance. More announcements will be made over the weekend. RSVP - https://partiful.com/e/5R73XJtp0weBVZez2fO3 Visit Ariana & Evans Use Coupon Code ShaveSplash to get 10% off