Stirling Soap 316 Stainless Steel Razor

IMO the words "mild" and 'CGLVL3' don't belong anywhere near each other.

Not that I'm not interested because I definitely am, hearing that.

IMO the words "mild" and 'CGLVL3' don't belong anywhere near each other.

Not that I'm not interested because I definitely am, hearing that.

, so true but it is “milder” with a PolSilver Blade.


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I’m pretty excited about this razor as I have a friend who’s been part of the testing group that Stirling put out there. He’s not sure how many people they choose to use the razor but his evaluation so far using it over a couple of weeks is that the mild plate is about as efficient as a Charcoal Goods Level 3 SB and the more efficient baseplate is comparable to an Ikon Shavedraft  Tech but noticeably smoother. If this is accurate or even close to accurate I’m all in even though I’m not crazy about the handle and would probably change it. Price is supposedly around $100 for the brushed finish and a bit more for the high polished. So based on his comments I’d agree with GlazedBoker Gus that this razor is probably not for a new wet shaver but more of an experienced person.  
Hope they do a pass around.

So this and the new high polished Timeless Titanium are on my most interested bucket list.

Couldn't agree with you more brother. And if that type of razor performance is being reported, then this Stirling offering is bringing a big stick to the table and going up against some serious blade forward but smooth operators in the razor efficiency wars. Which, to be honest can only be a good thing. Stakes are raised, competition gets fierce for the almighty consumer dollar and price competitiveness is spread across the board among manufacturers. Except perhaps for the Uber Niche manufacturers which make their products in super low numbers and are nearly works of art such as Wolfman, Charcoal Goods and Timeless to a certain extent, it's awesome for us to actually start to pick and choose where our tastes and wallets guide us.

Nothing wrong with that at all. And yes, I'm on the same page concerning the Ti Timeless Polished that will surface soon. I geared up for the Janus project but, that is on hold for the time being. That Ti from Timeless though has my undivided attention for sure....

Hi Gus

Hope all is well with you and your family my friend.
I like the idea that Stirling is thinking a little outside the box coming out with a razor that is purposely meant for experienced shavers. I think that’s kind of niche in itself. Also if this razor is like I said or even close to the razors I mentioned in efficiency and even smoother than those then I’m thinking they will have a winner on their hands. It’s like there’s a whole new Generation of razors coming out that target different buyers, user needs and the prices are all over the place.

So gentlemen I had called Stirling Soap and was speaking with Rod regarding my recent soap order. Once I had some basic issues clarified I asked about his upcoming 316 Stainless Steel razor.  By the end of our conversation he offered to send me his prototype so I could give him some feedback. I have been using it for the last week and spoken to him several times to clarify my opinions.

Be aware that I do not work for Stirling Soap Company nor am I receiving any compensation from him for my opinions (he said he would save me a razor when it becomes available if I wish). I am a hobbiest who was given the opportunity to evaluate an upcoming prototype razor. Rod as the proprietor may make changes to this razor as well as anything related to it. Nevertheless Rod stated I could state my opinions (positive or negative) on the board and the moderator confirmed that this was acceptable for DFS.

SPECS: This 3-piece 316 stainless steel razor will have available 2 plates, a standard plate and hyper-efficient plate per Rod’s description. This unfinished prototype showed symmetrical machine marks which were actually not bad in appearance. He plans to offer a matte finish at a price point under $100 and a mirrored polish for slightly more – these were his words but as of now he is still working this out so please have some flexibility as who knows what the economics will generate. Additionally he plans to label the plates and include a custom serial number on the final product. The blade has positive exposure but I do not know the numbers/angle nor was I told the blade gap. Visually the blade gap is wider for the hyper-efficient plate as one can see in the pictures (for me it resembles the recently released Rocnel Elite 2019). I suggested that perhaps he consider not publishing the blade gap to prevent the “gap chasers” among us as there are at least 2 vendors (ie Paradigm and Charcoal Goods) that do not publish blade gaps and make well regarded razors.

Cap = 16.2 gm
Base – Standard = 28.7 gm
Base – Hyper = 32.2 gm
Austin Handle = 45.6 gm
Handle Length = 90 mm or 3.5 inches

Standard Plate Razor = 90.5 gm
Hyper-Efficient Razor = 94.0 gm

GOALS: Rod stated that the goal of this 316 stainless steel razor, given the crowded field of new steel razors, was towards the experienced user and, at this time, not the beginner. He has developed 2 plates and may consider a milder plate in the future depending on the economics. He also suggested that both plates were very efficient (he does not use the term aggressive as that is not how razors work) and still smooth – the holy grail of DE razors.

ME THE SHAVER: My preshave is my early morning shower and I am a daily shaver with 5 years of experience. I have or have used multiple vintage/modern razors over the last several years but have a definite preference. Below (17-4, ATT Windsor, Stirling, Karve, GC with Ti Halo handle) are some quality 3-piece razors with the Stirling in the middle of these “Tech- inspired” gems. As this was a Stirling product I felt it only appropriate to use a Stirling shave soap with my silver tip badger brush. My goto blades were the Polsilver, Red Personna and Feather to use over the week.

EFFICIENCY: These are very efficient razors as Rod had suggested. In my experience as a daily shaver I need to shave every morning and even a very good razor will leave me with stubble late in the day – call me a 7 o’clock shadow. For me my most efficient razor has been the iKon Tech which I can use on a daily basis yet I find gives me a harsh shave despite taming it using skin stretching and/or “riding the cap”. My other very efficient shaves have come using the R41 and Wolfman 86. Slightly less efficient daily razors include Charcoal Goods L3, ATT Windsor H Plate, Paradigm 17-4 and Game Changer 84. The standard plate (see below the capped head) easily resulted in a 4-6 hour BBS quality shave and for me it was comparable to the results of my daily shave using Charcoal Goods Level3 or Paradigm 17-4.

The Stirling hyper-efficient plate (see below the capped head) yields a long lasting BBS shave on par with the very efficient iKon Tech without the harshness. It’s BBS quality lasted a full 10-12 hours (using the Red Personna) and I even questioned the need to shave the next morning as it was that good.  

SMOOTHNESS: This is where things got a little tricky as I have experienced an intrinsic improvement in smoothness when using polished razors over unpolished and in materials – Titanium just feels smoother on my face. Also one’s blade likely influences perceived smoothness in a way that cannot be easily quantified and the term YMMV is very appropriate when evaluating a subjective sensation of smoothness. For example I find the Polsilver and Red Personna smoother than the Feather blade irrespective of my razor. An ideal smooth razor would have a “phantom blade” that cuts without me sensing it such that my smoothest experiences have been using the Raw RS10, Paradigm 17-4 and Game Changer 84. Using the Stirling’s standard plate I felt it was as smooth or slightly smoother than the Charcoal Goods Level 2 or slightly less than ATT Windsor H Plate. As expected the hyper-efficient plate was considerably smoother than the iKon Tech or R41 and was similar to the Charcoal Goods L3 but slightly less than the Wolfman 86.

MANEUVERABILITY: Using his 90 mm Austin handle was a pleasure and a welcomed surprise to this very efficient yet smooth razor. The knurling at the bottom was both beautiful and ensured security even with wet soapy hands. The smooth pentagonal portion couples with the 316 stainless head had the balance nearly ¾ up the handle such that a pencil tip grip allowed for a delicate handling of the razor.  Its maneuverability reminded me of the narrow handled Vector. This fine pencil tip grip was even more evident and versatile while inverting the razor and going ATG – I was not expecting this.

Additionally Rod’s attention to detail was evident at the very top of the pentagonal portion which is rounded to allow the handle to inset a non-Stirling base that may have a prior rounded inset portion.

THE HEAD: Although this 90 mm razor is slightly head-heavy it is significantly lighter than a Copper Windsor (128.6 gm), Brass Karve (112.9 gm) and RS 10 (108.1 gm). Loading the blade is slightly different as the posts are on the base and holes are in the cap. One can still align the blade on an upside down cap and drop the base onto it easily. Once secured there is absolutely no blade play or chatter.  
 
Rod assured me that these heads were machined with extreme tolerances and he wasn’t kidding. And this is my biggest complaint which for others will be an absolute non-issue - I hate exposed blade tabs. I believe that if there is no plate-cap alignment issues due to excellent machining / high tolerances, there should be no reason to hold blade by the tabs so they ought to be covered. Also by covering the tabs there is no chance for cutting the nose or earlobes. Besides I think covered tabs just look more professional and it is a look I prefer in a high end product. Rod said he would consider it on a potential future run of additional heads. In regards to using the head under the nose I had no difficulty getting there even using the “taller” hyper-efficient plate. It was as easy to get those corners as any of the lower profile razors in my den. An in case you were wondering the lather channels work without getting jammed up with thick soap and hair.

PROS: 1. Very efficient razor for experienced users (at iTech or CG L3/17-4 level depending on head)
2. Smooth operator also
3. Maneuverable with very nimble handle control
4. Appearance – it should be beautiful IMO once finished in 316 stainless
5. Price – if Rod can get it less than $150 or close to $100 it would be a steal

CONS: 1. Blade tabs – did I say that I hate exposed tabs
2. Weight as some may not like the 90-94 gm weight of stainless – maybe a future Titanium ?
3. Release date – Rod hope to get them out in a few months so we will have to wait

Overall it looks like a winner and given Sterling’s excellent reputation I will be the first in line for this new offering as I had to send back this excellent prototype.

Best of luck Stirling and Rod, AJ

Excellent review of the Stirling prototype AJ. Got me wanting one when they become Available.

Great review. In particular I really like the handle. Thank you again.

AJ one of the best most detailed reviews I’ve read in a while so great job and thank you for giving us all who have been curious as to how this razor compares to some of the favorites that many of us have in our dens.

Based on you review I’m all in on one but I’ll reserve my judgment on the handle design until I actually have it in hand!

Great review and I am looking forward to trying the aggressive plate with this one. I love that he is making this for non-beginners! That aspect alone has me all in.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

So gentlemen I had called Stirling Soap and was speaking with Rod regarding my recent soap order. Once I had some basic issues clarified I asked about his upcoming 316 Stainless Steel razor.  By the end of our conversation he offered to send me his prototype so I could give him some feedback. I have been using it for the last week and spoken to him several times to clarify my opinions.

Be aware that I do not work for Stirling Soap Company nor am I receiving any compensation from him for my opinions (he said he would save me a razor when it becomes available if I wish). I am a hobbiest who was given the opportunity to evaluate an upcoming prototype razor. Rod as the proprietor may make changes to this razor as well as anything related to it. Nevertheless Rod stated I could state my opinions (positive or negative) on the board and the moderator confirmed that this was acceptable for DFS.

SPECS: This 3-piece 316 stainless steel razor will have available 2 plates, a standard plate and hyper-efficient plate per Rod’s description. This unfinished prototype showed symmetrical machine marks which were actually not bad in appearance. He plans to offer a matte finish at a price point under $100 and a mirrored polish for slightly more – these were his words but as of now he is still working this out so please have some flexibility as who knows what the economics will generate. Additionally he plans to label the plates and include a custom serial number on the final product. The blade has positive exposure but I do not know the numbers/angle nor was I told the blade gap. Visually the blade gap is wider for the hyper-efficient plate as one can see in the pictures (for me it resembles the recently released Rocnel Elite 2019). I suggested that perhaps he consider not publishing the blade gap to prevent the “gap chasers” among us as there are at least 2 vendors (ie Paradigm and Charcoal Goods) that do not publish blade gaps and make well regarded razors.

Cap = 16.2 gm
Base – Standard = 28.7 gm
Base – Hyper = 32.2 gm
Austin Handle = 45.6 gm
Handle Length = 90 mm or 3.5 inches

Standard Plate Razor = 90.5 gm
Hyper-Efficient Razor = 94.0 gm

GOALS: Rod stated that the goal of this 316 stainless steel razor, given the crowded field of new steel razors, was towards the experienced user and, at this time, not the beginner. He has developed 2 plates and may consider a milder plate in the future depending on the economics. He also suggested that both plates were very efficient (he does not use the term aggressive as that is not how razors work) and still smooth – the holy grail of DE razors.  

ME THE SHAVER: My preshave is my early morning shower and I am a daily shaver with 5 years of experience. I have or have used multiple vintage/modern razors over the last several years but have a definite preference. Below (17-4, ATT Windsor, Stirling, Karve, GC with Ti Halo handle) are some quality 3-piece razors with the Stirling in the middle of these “Tech- inspired” gems. As this was a Stirling product I felt it only appropriate to use a Stirling shave soap with my silver tip badger brush. My goto blades were the Polsilver, Red Personna and Feather to use over the week.

EFFICIENCY: These are very efficient razors as Rod had suggested. In my experience as a daily shaver I need to shave every morning and even a very good razor will leave me with stubble late in the day – call me a 7 o’clock shadow. For me my most efficient razor has been the iKon Tech which I can use on a daily basis yet I find gives me a harsh shave despite taming it using skin stretching and/or “riding the cap”. My other very efficient shaves have come using the R41 and Wolfman 86. Slightly less efficient daily razors include Charcoal Goods L3, ATT Windsor H Plate, Paradigm 17-4 and Game Changer 84. The standard plate (see below the capped head) easily resulted in a 4-6 hour BBS quality shave and for me it was comparable to the results of my daily shave using Charcoal Goods Level3 or Paradigm 17-4.

The Stirling hyper-efficient plate (see below the capped head) yields a long lasting BBS shave on par with the very efficient iKon Tech without the harshness. It’s BBS quality lasted a full 10-12 hours (using the Red Personna) and I even questioned the need to shave the next morning as it was that good.  

SMOOTHNESS: This is where things got a little tricky as I have experienced an intrinsic improvement in smoothness when using polished razors over unpolished and in materials – Titanium just feels smoother on my face. Also one’s blade likely influences perceived smoothness in a way that cannot be easily quantified and the term YMMV is very appropriate when evaluating a subjective sensation of smoothness. For example I find the Polsilver and Red Personna smoother than the Feather blade irrespective of my razor. An ideal smooth razor would have a “phantom blade” that cuts without me sensing it such that my smoothest experiences have been using the Raw RS10, Paradigm 17-4 and Game Changer 84. Using the Stirling’s standard plate I felt it was as smooth or slightly smoother than the Charcoal Goods Level 2 or slightly less than ATT Windsor H Plate. As expected the hyper-efficient plate was considerably smoother than the iKon Tech or R41 and was similar to the Charcoal Goods L3 but slightly less than the Wolfman 86.

MANEUVERABILITY: Using his 90 mm Austin handle was a pleasure and a welcomed surprise to this very efficient yet smooth razor. The knurling at the bottom was both beautiful and ensured security even with wet soapy hands. The smooth pentagonal portion couples with the 316 stainless head had the balance nearly ¾ up the handle such that a pencil tip grip allowed for a delicate handling of the razor.  Its maneuverability reminded me of the narrow handled Vector. This fine pencil tip grip was even more evident and versatile while inverting the razor and going ATG – I was not expecting this.

Additionally Rod’s attention to detail was evident at the very top of the pentagonal portion which is rounded to allow the handle to inset a non-Stirling base that may have a prior rounded inset portion.

THE HEAD: Although this 90 mm razor is slightly head-heavy it is significantly lighter than a Copper Windsor (128.6 gm), Brass Karve (112.9 gm) and RS 10 (108.1 gm). Loading the blade is slightly different as the posts are on the base and holes are in the cap. One can still align the blade on an upside down cap and drop the base onto it easily. Once secured there is absolutely no blade play or chatter.    
 
Rod assured me that these heads were machined with extreme tolerances and he wasn’t kidding. And this is my biggest complaint which for others will be an absolute non-issue - I hate exposed blade tabs. I believe that if there is no plate-cap alignment issues due to excellent machining / high tolerances, there should be no reason to hold blade by the tabs so they ought to be covered. Also by covering the tabs there is no chance for cutting the nose or earlobes. Besides I think covered tabs just look more professional and it is a look I prefer in a high end product. Rod said he would consider it on a potential future run of additional heads. In regards to using the head under the nose I had no difficulty getting there even using the “taller” hyper-efficient plate. It was as easy to get those corners as any of the lower profile razors in my den. An in case you were wondering the lather channels work without getting jammed up with thick soap and hair.

PROS: 1. Very efficient razor for experienced users (at iTech or CG L3/17-4 level depending on head)
2. Smooth operator also
3. Maneuverable with very nimble handle control
4. Appearance – it should be beautiful IMO once finished in 316 stainless
5. Price – if Rod can get it less than $150 or close to $100 it would be a steal

CONS: 1. Blade tabs – did I say that I hate exposed tabs
2. Weight as some may not like the 90-94 gm weight of stainless – maybe a future Titanium ?
3. Release date – Rod hope to get them out in a few months so we will have to wait

Overall it looks like a winner and given Sterling’s excellent reputation I will be the first in line for this new offering as I had to send back this excellent prototype.

Best of luck Stirling and Rod, AJ

Superbly done. Bravo... Bravo...

I was actually expecting the handle to not be gippy or maneuverable but boy was I suprised. I found the weight distribution ideal for finger tip guidance/control especially obvious when inverted going ATG. Others may like the thicker (lower portion) knurled pattern more useful for a Neanderthal-like "hammer-grip" which I am sure will work well for them.