Single-edge Razors

I've just recently been re-introduced to single-edge razors (after having *not* used one in more years than I can remember), and now I'm really tossed about which razor is my favorite. More investigation and experimentation is needed.

 GEM Junior

GEM and Star (the original "safety razor" as made by the Kampfe Brothers in 1880) are the two most prolific brands you'll find available these days. These old razors are finding a gaining popularity among wet-shavers, with their prices reflecting this. Still, the GEM Junior pictured above was had for a mere ten bucks...and gives a most triumphant shave. It's all brass with a solid handle, giving it noticeable heft, but is a true pleasure to use due to its small size. Added cool factor: the sound of whiskers being mowed down as it glides across your face. 

 Schick-Eversharp razor with injector

Injector razors are another single-edge design, the brain-child of Col. Jacob Schick. He based the concept of the injector on the loading of a repeating rifle (hence the name of his company, the "Magazine Repeating Razor Co.", founded in 1925); blades were contained in a spring-loaded "clip" that had a "key" which is inserted into the razor. A slide is pulled back, engaging the first blade, then pushed forward to force the blade into the razor (pushing the old blade out if one was previously loaded). Pull the "key" out, and the razor is ready to use. A really cool "lock 'n' load" feeling, this. Schick, of course, PAL (both fixed and adjustable) and Personna are the most common vintage injectors to be found.