I went with Phoenix Artisan’s Starcraft brush and Mickey Lee Soapworks Bee Witched, a one-off but extremely nice shaving soap that I hope someday will return. The honeyed fragrance of the lather was wonderful on a sunny summer morning, and I then picked up my new Parker “Semi-Slant” safety razor. (Just to be perfectly clear: I purchased the razor as a regular customer: no gratuities or special offers.)
I think it is called a “semi-slant” to induce those who fear a slant to give it a try. It states that it’s less “aggressive” than traditional slant razors (by which I imagine it means that it is less uncomfortable, because it’s certainly not lacking in efficiency). I don’t see that it’s really that much less slanted than my other slants, but it is indeed an extremely comfortable and efficient slant. We’re talking iKon X3 comfort and efficiency, and this model costs $30 for the entire razor, whereas the X3 head alone is $40. The link, BTW, is to the satin chrome model, and the one I purchased (and pictured) is the graphite handle (color, not substance—and a good thing: graphite is very slippery). Each costs $30.
The shave is remarkably good, as is the workmanship (fit and finish) of the razor. This seems to be to be a significant improvement in Parker quality. As noted, the handle is quite long (which would make it a good razor for shaving legs), but it’s a three-piece razor, so you can use whatever handle you want. The stock handle, though, feels good and I’ll continue with it, though it does strike me as slightly longer than I like.
Three passes left a perfectly smooth result without even the threat of a nick. I really like this razor. Recommended.
A splash of TOBS No. 79, and Independence Day begins (with my Declaration of Independence from Multiblade-Cartridge Razors).