Merkur 37C

Are you in search of a safety razor that delivers a close, efficient shave with minimal irritation? Look no further than the Merkur 37C Slant Bar Safety Razor. This well-crafted razor is a favorite among experienced wet shavers who appreciate an aggressive shave tailored to their preferences.

In this comprehensive review, we will delve into the key features of the Merkur 37C, discuss its performance in a traditional wet shaving environment, and share user experiences. We’ll also explore alternatives worth considering, compare the 37C to the Merkur 39C, and highlight the razor’s pros and cons to help you decide if it’s the right choice for you.

About the Merkur 37C

Below are the notable features of this razor:

Slant Bar Head

The primary feature that sets the Merkur 37C apart from other safety razors is its slant head design. This unique angle twists the razor blade, creating a slicing motion through facial hair – which as we found, works exceptionally well if your hair is coarse or thick. The slant design allows the razor to cut through thicker growth with ease, making it ideal for those with tougher beards or longer stubble. Aggressiveness is a key component of slant razors, and the Merkur 37C is no exception.

Blade Gap

The blade gap on the Merkur 37C is approximately .8mm, which is on the larger side compared to some other safety razors. This wide gap increases the aggressiveness of the shave, resulting in a closer shave with fewer passes.

Grip

The diamond-knurled handle ensures a secure grip during wet shaving.

Length

The overall length measures 3.28″. This is slightly longer than the Merkur 34C which is 3.03″ in length, but still shorter than many other safety razors on the market.

Here’s a chart demonstrating just how short the 37C is when compared to other safety razors:

Weight

At 79 grams (2.79 ounces) this razor is fairly light. However, the weight is still sufficient to slice through thicker facial hair without having to apply extra pressure. The balance of weight tends to skew more towards the head of the razor, which can aid in maintaining the correct angle during shaving.

Here’s how this razor compares to other safety razors:

Fun Fact: The Merkur 37C is commonly referred to as the “little brother” to the Merkur 39C, which is known as the “Sledgehammer” due to its heavier weight and longer handle.

Composition

The Merkur 37C is made from a brass and die-cast zinc alloy head that is then treated with an electroplated chrome finish. This composition isn’t nearly as good as stainless steel when it comes to durability, however, if the chrome plating cracks or chips, brass is less likely to corrode. However, it is still a sturdy and durable option for most users.

Blades

Despite the slant design, the Merkur 37C is compatible with your standard double-edge razor blades. This means you are free to experiment with different brands such as Derby, Feather, and more to find your preferred level of sharpness and comfort.

Shaving with the Merkur 37C

While the Merkur 37C offers a close, efficient shave, it’s important to note that there is a learning curve involved. Mastering the technique of shaving with this slant razor takes some practice, but the results are worth the effort. For those with sensitive skin, the precision of the 37C can help reduce razor burn and irritation.

However, once mastered, you’ll find that the Merkur 37C provides a consistently close and smooth shave. Here’s what one avid shaver had to say about their experience with the Merkur 37C:

“The Merkur 37C provides a smooth and close shave with minimal irritation. I can see why it’s a favorite among experienced wet shavers.” – Alex P.

However, not all folks were as thrilled with the learning curve involved. Some users had difficulty adjusting to the slant head design and found that they nicked themselves more often in the beginning.

Here was one review that captured a lot of these initial struggles:

“I found that the aggressiveness of this razor led to more nicks and cuts than I was comfortable with. I prefer a milder razor for my sensitive skin.” – Jordan R.

Ideally, it’s essential to approach the Merkur 37C with patience and a willingness to learn, as the benefits of using this slant razor can be truly outstanding once you get the hang of it.

Wet shaving enthusiasts on Badger & Blade find the 37C to be exceptionally smooth.

The same experience was to be found by one Redditor over at /r/wicked_edge where they found the 37C to be “unique, pleasant, and efficient”.

Pro Tip: Many variables affect the shaving experience, including the razor itself, the blade used, the amount of pressure applied, the angle of the blade, and your personal preparation and skincare routine.

Value

For $59, the Merkur 37C is considered a good investment for those who appreciate the craftsmanship and the unique shaving experience provided by the slant design.

The design and construction paired with the shaving performance ensure this razor will serve its purpose for many shaves to come.

Comparing the Merkur 37C to the 39C

With both featuring identical slant heads, the main difference between the Merkur 37C and 39C lies in the handle. The Merkur 39C, also known as the “Sledgehammer,” has a longer and heavier handle, providing extra heft and balance for those who prefer a more substantial feel in their hands.

The difference in weight is 34 grams (1.2 ounces), with the 39C weighing in at 113 grams (4 ounces). The 39C is also slightly longer at 4.01″ compared to the 37C’s 3.28″ length (a difference of .73″).

Here’s a comparison of specs for each of these razors:

Feature	Merkur 37C	Merkur 39C
Overall Weight	79g	113g
Razor Length	3.28″	4.01″
Handle Length	3.04″	3.79″
Handle Diameter	0.46″	.46″
Comb Type	Closed Comb	Closed Comb
Safety Bar	Slant	Slant

As for shave performance, the 39C will be slightly more aggressive and be easier to reach those hard-to-shave areas such as your neck. Consider the 39C over the 37C if you have larger hands or prefer a heavier razor. The price is nearly negligible, with the 39C costing only $5 more than the 37C.

What to Consider Instead

If the Merkur 37C isn’t quite what you’re looking for, there are other safety razors worth considering as alternatives. These include:

• Parker Semi-Slant: This is a terrific budget-friendly option for those looking to try a slant razor without breaking the bank. Priced around $30, the Parker Semi-Slant offers a milder shave compared to the Merkur 37C, making it more suitable for beginners or those with sensitive skin.
• Merkur 34C: A non-slant bar razor with the same handle design as the 37C, the 34C is known for its moderately aggressive shave, making it more suitable for beginners.

What We Like

• Slant design provides a close, efficient shave
• Aggressive shave with minimal irritation for those with tougher beards or longer stubble
• High-quality construction and materials ensure durability and longevity
• Diamond knurled handle for a secure, non-slip grip
• Compatible with a wide range of blade brands

What We Don’t Like

• May increase the potential for nicks and cuts, particularly for beginners or those with sensitive skin
• Learning curve involved in mastering the technique of using a slant razor
• Relatively high price point compared to other safety razors on the market
• The aggressive nature of the shave may not be suitable for everyone, especially those with sensitive skin
• The weight distribution, although beneficial for maintaining pressure, can lead to unintentional nicks if not used carefully

Bottom Line

The Merkur 37C Slant is an excellent option for experienced wet shavers seeking a close and efficient shave, particularly those with tougher beards or longer stubble. Its slant design allows for a more aggressive shave while still minimizing skin irritation, making it a popular choice for many wet shaving enthusiasts. However, the learning curve and the potential for nicks and cuts may deter beginners or those with sensitive skin from choosing this razor as their first foray into the world of wet shaving.

Compare the Merkur 37C to other safety razors:

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Buy the Merkur 37C from these retailers:

Buy Direct

Amazon

West Coast Shaving

Shave Nation

Walmart

Fendrihan

Maggard