Phoenix DOC (nickel-plated) didn't seem all that mild to me...

Got the "mild" nickel-plated DOC for Christmas & used it for a week.

I used as little pressure as possible. I needed one less pass than usual (2+cleanup instead of 3+ cleanup), but even after that I had a fair amount of razor burn. If I did a full 3 passes I ended up looking like a lobster.

I'll keep trying it occasionally, but I've mostly gone back to my EJ.

I have always found the PAA DOC to be hard on my face. YMMV and all that.

Don't buy the SS/Aluminum version then. I have always thought the original DOC was pretty mild and didn't have any issues with it.

Don't buy the SS/Aluminum version then. I have always thought the original DOC was pretty mild and didn't have any issues with it.

Agreed. I just used a stainless DOC Evolution today, and it is an awesome aggressive razor. I can't use any vintage Gillettes anymore, because they're so mild I can't get a close shave. The stainless PAA is a masterpiece for a very small minority of us.

Don't buy the SS/Aluminum version then.  I have always thought the original DOC was pretty mild and didn't have any issues with it.

Agreed. I just used a stainless DOC Evolution today, and it is an awesome aggressive razor. I can't use any vintage Gillettes anymore, because they're so mild I can't get a close shave. The stainless PAA is a masterpiece for a very small minority of us.

I like the aluminus. Two passes and done.

I can still get BBS with my 48-50 Aristocrat though and have never had any efficiency issues. YMMV I guess.

I have the original chrome DOC
It has quite a learning curve. The angle is very important, as is the blade (besides a pre shave treatment of the face).
The Perma Sharp Super is a good match for me.
Give it time and be you will be rewarded

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Don't buy the SS/Aluminum version then.  I have always thought the original DOC was pretty mild and didn't have any issues with it.

+2; I found the original version much to mild for me.

Got the "mild" nickel-plated DOC for Christmas & used it for a week.

I used as little pressure as possible. I needed one less pass than usual (2+cleanup instead of 3+ cleanup), but even after that I had a fair amount of razor burn. If I did a full 3 passes I ended up looking like a lobster.

You might try using a slim between your blade and the top cap (not base).

Hmmm...what do people usually use for shims?