I am not a daily shaver. I have no routine. I just shave when I feel like it. Always with 3-8 days growth. I used the same Haunted Cabin soap, preshave, and even the same brush for all of my shaves. The blade was the only variable.
Until yesterday, I used the Oprey exclusively since taking receipt, a total of 6 or 7 shaves. I’ve used Gillette Platinum Swede, Feather, and Kai blades. I played with all of the settings but used 9 exclusively. I got excellent results with all blades but preferred the Kai, which is odd because I have found them to be tuggy in any other razor I’ve owned. In the Osprey, they Kai was actually smoother than the others, go figure.
I was surprised at how big the Osprey is. The handle is the same length as a couple of my Sailors but it feels longer because the Osprey has the adjustment turret directly under the head. I appreciated the extra length. The head height is comparable to the Sailor too, it just looks smaller because its tapered, like the early Sailor. My only real concern with the Osprey is keeping the head clean. It’s skeletonized on the underside of the head and creates some nice pockets to collect soap. If you shave with hot water, likely no issue. I cold water shave so will need to make sure to rinse thoroughly with hot water. When the adjustment is set to 9, there is a gap between the turret and the adjusting plate. That gap will collect soap and I don’t think you could get a pipe cleaner in it. I suppose a periodic boil would keep it clean. It may not be an issue at all however, I would prefer those pockets not be there, and I know it would add weight to the head. Just seems like it would be easier to clean.
The flutes in the handle are expertly done, for my hand. The edges are sharp and grab the skin. What looks like a fairly smooth handle, it actually has a good bit of grip. No issues with soapy hands.
I took a few hours to polish the top cap after the first shave. Glad I did, glide was improved. Other than that. No modifications. I did not remove the ballast as I found the balance near perfect with it and I like heavy razors.
I wish it opened up to about 12…maybe 15. The first 5 or 6 settings are of no use to me but I understand my preferences are outside of the mainstream.
Overall, I love the razor. It is a great shaver. It is not going to replace my Sailor but I do intend to clean it up and give it to my 17 y/o son. I think it would be a perfect fit for him.
Well done, Shane. You have another winner.