Menlo Shaving Nealon Razor - DFS Pass Around

Ok, I’ve shaved with this razor on and off for about 3 weeks. I like the finish and design of the head. I prefer handles with knurling and swapped the handle for a Razorock HD handle. My shaves are usually 2 passes WTG, ATG with touch-ups at at 20-30 degree angle 24-36 hours apart. Being that the gap is large, finding the optimal or preferred angle isn’t difficult. My equipment included PDP no.63 soap, SHD Oumo brush, and Razorock Gold aftershave. The blades used included Gillette Platinum, Blacks, and GSB. Those that compared this razor to the Charcoal Goods lvl 3 (CG3) are spot on as they are similar. The CG3 is one of my favorites because it is very efficient requiring less passes for stellar results. This razor delivers an easily obtainable BBS unlike most milder razors. There was no blade chatter and the blade feel is there but not overly so. However I have to be a little cautious without putting pressure on the ATG and touch-up passes as it’s easy to get minor weepers if pressure is applied. For me it’s a keeper.

I had my last shave with the Menlo yesterday - a 3 pass shave - and it was a very, very close shave. I'm with those who compare the razor to a Level 3 CG razor or a Stirling standard. I got a similar result to these two razors.

From a design standpoint, I like the finish and the scalloping on the razor. I was (pleasantly) surprised by the scalloping on the base plate and thought it was a nice touch. The deep wells under the safety bars handled lather well. Fit and finish seem to be excellent. I liked all of the handles and did not have any problems with grip. This razor requires a little attention while using, but you'll be rewarded with an excellent shave. If I didn't already own the CG and the Stirling, it would definitely be a razor to consider.

I've sent this on to vadim. Thanks again for organizing a pass-around!

Razor received. I had my first shave with this razor this morning. It is definitely a blade forward razor with a blade feel between a Blackbird and 2013 R41. It definitely requires a light touch. It was probably a bit too aggressive on my neck. I'll give it a few more shaves to see if I can tame it a bit more.

I’d like to be included in the passaround if possible.

I was able to get three shaves during my time with the Menlo razor. The razor is well made with good machining and polishing. I don't know if the scalloping adds anything to the quality of the shave--I think I'd prefer a smooth surface since it would be easier to clean and could improve blade clamping/rigidity. Overall, I found the razor too aggressive for my liking. Admittedly, I do prefer milder razors, with some of my favorites including the PILS, Charcoal Goods Level 1, Silversmith, and Masamune. The Menlo didn't bite and was fairly manageable on my cheeks; however, the razor felt quite aggressive and harsh on my neck and chin area. I got a good quality shave, but I'd prefer a more comfortable shave in my razors.

While this razor wasn't for me, I appreciate the ability to opportunity to try it. I definitely get the itch to try an aggressive razor a few times a year just to see if I ever change my mind, so this was still an enjoyable experience for me. The razor has been shipped to gwsmallwood.

I was able to get three shaves during my time with the Menlo razor. The razor is well made with good machining and polishing. I don't know if the scalloping adds anything to the quality of the shave--I think I'd prefer a smooth surface since it would be easier to clean and could improve blade clamping/rigidity. Overall, I found the razor too aggressive for my liking. Admittedly, I do prefer milder razors, with some of my favorites including the PILS, Charcoal Goods Level 1, Silversmith, and Masamune. The Menlo didn't bite and was fairly manageable on my cheeks; however, the razor felt quite aggressive and harsh on my neck and chin area. I got a good quality shave, but I'd prefer a more comfortable shave in my razors.

While this razor wasn't for me, I appreciate the ability to opportunity to try it. I definitely get the itch to try an aggressive razor a few times a year just to see if I ever change my mind, so this was still an enjoyable experience for me. The razor has been shipped to gwsmallwood.

Looking forward to my turn.

I’d like to be included in the passaround if possible.

 
Sure. Please copy most recent list from the thread and add your name and state. Thanks.

I've had one head shave and one face shave with the Nealon.  So far I'm not crazy about the smooth handle, or the limited handle length.  It doesn't fit the way I hold my razors.  I had a bit of trouble finding the angle with my face shave yesterday, but I found it very intuitive on my head shave today.  So far so good, but I think I'll have to do a side-by-side with my Stirling ST while I have it.  It definitely feels different, but I suspect the efficiency is close.

Oooh yay it looks my spot is almost here!

1.Dave in KY (Completed)
2. gvw755 (WA state) (Completed)
3. Whisker Whacker (TX state)(Completed)
4. Keto (MO) (Completed)
5. Shavemd (Ohio) removed at my request
6. slantman (Florida) (Completed)
7. OptoCritic (Maine) advised to pass to next person due to out of town commitments
8. Marhos24 (Michigan) (Completed)
9. Razorman (New Jersey) Removed at my request
10. drdeemanda (MA) (Completed)
11. cino (Georgia) Removed at by request
12. bobmsp (Minnesota) - current user
13. vadim (Maryland)
14. gwsmallwood (AZ)
15. Ketotrader (VA)
16. Enahabedian (MA)
17. Bullyson (KY)