Review of Vikings Blade Emperor
Posted: Thu May 16, 2024 11:49 pm
If you're someone who appreciates a luxurious shaving experience with a touch of nostalgia, the Vikings Blade Emperor Adjustable Safety Razor might just be the grooming tool you've been seeking. Having tested it extensively, I'm excited to share my comprehensive review that dives into every aspect of this meticulously crafted product.
The Vikings Blade Emperor Adjustable Safety Razor stands out in the crowded market of safety razors, and it's easy to see why. This product, imbued with top-notch build quality and nearly impeccable finish, truly elevates the shaving experience. The razor is substantial and heavy, weighing in at 134 grams and measuring 110 millimeters in length. The cognac plating adds a touch of elegance, making it as much a statement piece as a functional razor.
From the moment you pick it up, the heft of the Emperor Adjustable Safety Razor is immediately apparent. The weight feels balanced and reassuring in the hand, providing a sense of control during use. One of the standout features is the dual head with both smooth and scalloped safety bars, offering versatility that caters to different shaving preferences and skin sensitivities.
The dial of the Emperor is smooth and accurate, allowing for precise adjustments without any cumbersome click or lock mechanism. This smooth movement ensures you can fine-tune the aggressiveness of the blade to match your specific needs, from a mild shave to a more aggressive one. In terms of blade feel, the Emperor is commendably good and not harsh on the skin, similar to the feel of a Gillette Slim set at level 7.
However, no product is without its flaws. One minor inconvenience I encountered was with the TTO (twist-to-open) doors. They don't open quite wide enough for easy blade placement, which can make swapping out blades a bit more fiddly than I'd prefer. Additionally, the blade tabs protrude on either side of the razor head, which might be a small concern for those who are meticulous about their grooming tools. Moreover, there is some lateral blade movement from one post to the other, but this is similar to what you'd find in classic Gillette razors.
The aesthetics of the Vikings Blade Emperor may also be a point of contention for some. While I personally didn’t mind the brand markings and etchings, I can understand how they might be seen as tacky by others who prefer a more understated design.
When it comes to performance, the Emperor Adjustable Safety Razor excels. The shave is consistently smooth, efficient, and close. It handles with ease and provides a comfortable and irritation-free shaving experience. The nostalgic design, combined with modern engineering, ensures that you get both the look and the performance of a high-end razor.
Pros:
- Superior build quality and nearly impeccable finish
- Substantial weight and balanced feel
- Smooth, accurate, and solid adjustment dial
- Versatile dual head with smooth and scalloped safety bar
- Excellent blade feel that is not overly harsh
Cons:
- TTO doors do not open wide enough for easy blade placement
- Protruding blade tabs may be a concern for some users
- Lateral blade movement similar to classic Gillette razors
- Aesthetic design may not appeal to everyone
In conclusion, the Vikings Blade Emperor Adjustable Safety Razor is a standout product that offers an exceptional shaving experience. While it’s not without its minor flaws, the overall performance, build quality, and design make it a worthy addition to any shaving kit. If you’re someone who appreciates both form and function in your grooming tools, the Emperor is certainly worth considering. It provides a nostalgic touch while delivering modern efficiency, making it a true contender in the realm of high-quality safety razors.
The Vikings Blade Emperor Adjustable Safety Razor stands out in the crowded market of safety razors, and it's easy to see why. This product, imbued with top-notch build quality and nearly impeccable finish, truly elevates the shaving experience. The razor is substantial and heavy, weighing in at 134 grams and measuring 110 millimeters in length. The cognac plating adds a touch of elegance, making it as much a statement piece as a functional razor.
From the moment you pick it up, the heft of the Emperor Adjustable Safety Razor is immediately apparent. The weight feels balanced and reassuring in the hand, providing a sense of control during use. One of the standout features is the dual head with both smooth and scalloped safety bars, offering versatility that caters to different shaving preferences and skin sensitivities.
The dial of the Emperor is smooth and accurate, allowing for precise adjustments without any cumbersome click or lock mechanism. This smooth movement ensures you can fine-tune the aggressiveness of the blade to match your specific needs, from a mild shave to a more aggressive one. In terms of blade feel, the Emperor is commendably good and not harsh on the skin, similar to the feel of a Gillette Slim set at level 7.
However, no product is without its flaws. One minor inconvenience I encountered was with the TTO (twist-to-open) doors. They don't open quite wide enough for easy blade placement, which can make swapping out blades a bit more fiddly than I'd prefer. Additionally, the blade tabs protrude on either side of the razor head, which might be a small concern for those who are meticulous about their grooming tools. Moreover, there is some lateral blade movement from one post to the other, but this is similar to what you'd find in classic Gillette razors.
The aesthetics of the Vikings Blade Emperor may also be a point of contention for some. While I personally didn’t mind the brand markings and etchings, I can understand how they might be seen as tacky by others who prefer a more understated design.
When it comes to performance, the Emperor Adjustable Safety Razor excels. The shave is consistently smooth, efficient, and close. It handles with ease and provides a comfortable and irritation-free shaving experience. The nostalgic design, combined with modern engineering, ensures that you get both the look and the performance of a high-end razor.
Pros:
- Superior build quality and nearly impeccable finish
- Substantial weight and balanced feel
- Smooth, accurate, and solid adjustment dial
- Versatile dual head with smooth and scalloped safety bar
- Excellent blade feel that is not overly harsh
Cons:
- TTO doors do not open wide enough for easy blade placement
- Protruding blade tabs may be a concern for some users
- Lateral blade movement similar to classic Gillette razors
- Aesthetic design may not appeal to everyone
In conclusion, the Vikings Blade Emperor Adjustable Safety Razor is a standout product that offers an exceptional shaving experience. While it’s not without its minor flaws, the overall performance, build quality, and design make it a worthy addition to any shaving kit. If you’re someone who appreciates both form and function in your grooming tools, the Emperor is certainly worth considering. It provides a nostalgic touch while delivering modern efficiency, making it a true contender in the realm of high-quality safety razors.