Been using the Taiga this week and I don’t think there is much to add that hasn’t been said.
The razor is superb, smooth, close, little blade feel and gentle with the face. In my efficiency ranking it is very high up.
The razor is well built, it has a very good balance and feels great in the hand.
Over the week I’ve only had one shave that was not as pleasurable as the rest. But all was down to the blade that I tried to see if I could stretch the Permasharp a bit.
Also tried with a Feather on it and it was just silk on the face. It was then when I got a bit over confident and had the first nick in months. Over confidence seeing how smooth it was.
How does it compare to equivalent price razors. I used to own a Rex and sold it within weeks, I found the Rex to be completely the opposite. While not giving a good shave on setting 3, it felt as if I had left the face on the sink. Lower settings didn’t cut it and left behind a lot of stubble. In addition you have to ride the cap to avoid having a rough shave while loosing efficiency. For me it just didn’t work.
The machining on the Rex feel better though it’s satin finish makes it a bit draggy. The Rex knurling I find it best in class though. But it is not about the looks, it’s about the shave.
Having said this I find the Taiga equally attractive.
I would have loved to see the Taiga with a laser engraving of at least the serial number for quality control but that is about it.
Would I recommend it. Sure, if you like heavy razors that are build to last which will give you superb smooth shaves. It’s gone directly to my wish list.
The only regret is that on Monday it will have to go to the next in the list.
Happy shaves and thank you for organizing this pass around.
Greetings from Santa Rosa, CA