I have them both and think they are both fine razors, but they are very different shaving experiences.
The Rockwell is very well made, though as some have said, the finish is good but not perfect. I find the handle a little longer than what I normally prefer, but it is still easy to work with. With the multiple plates, it is very easy to find a level of aggressiveness that works best for you and it is very handy to be able to choose a higher plate to handle days with more growth.
It is very easy to get the correct angle with the razor and it is consistently smooth and comfortable. Overall it is a well made razor that performs extremely well.
The Blackbird is an entirely different shaving experience for me. I originally had the black oxide finish, but had Shane put the high polish on it, and the finished razor is a real work of art. Fit and finish are absolutely excellent and the look of the razor is stunning.
I prefer shorter handles, though I would say the short handle on my Blackbird is as short as I would ever want. It is very easy to control and maneuver, and the handle is very easy to hold on to despite the high polish finish.
The Blackbird requires a different angle to shave than any other DE I have used, but once you get the hang of it, it is extremely efficient. The razor feels aggressive, you can definitely feel the blade on your face and it commands attention and respect, though I have never had anything worse than the odd weeper. It just feels like it could bite of you became careless. That said, it is an incredible razor, very well made and a beautiful instrument.
If I had to choose between the two, I would go with the Blackbird, because the look and feel of the razor is so unique and impressive. That said, the Rockwell is a well made, excellent shaver. I'm happy that I have both in my den.
Hope this is some help.
The Rockwell is very well made, though as some have said, the finish is good but not perfect. I find the handle a little longer than what I normally prefer, but it is still easy to work with. With the multiple plates, it is very easy to find a level of aggressiveness that works best for you and it is very handy to be able to choose a higher plate to handle days with more growth.
It is very easy to get the correct angle with the razor and it is consistently smooth and comfortable. Overall it is a well made razor that performs extremely well.
The Blackbird is an entirely different shaving experience for me. I originally had the black oxide finish, but had Shane put the high polish on it, and the finished razor is a real work of art. Fit and finish are absolutely excellent and the look of the razor is stunning.
I prefer shorter handles, though I would say the short handle on my Blackbird is as short as I would ever want. It is very easy to control and maneuver, and the handle is very easy to hold on to despite the high polish finish.
The Blackbird requires a different angle to shave than any other DE I have used, but once you get the hang of it, it is extremely efficient. The razor feels aggressive, you can definitely feel the blade on your face and it commands attention and respect, though I have never had anything worse than the odd weeper. It just feels like it could bite of you became careless. That said, it is an incredible razor, very well made and a beautiful instrument.
If I had to choose between the two, I would go with the Blackbird, because the look and feel of the razor is so unique and impressive. That said, the Rockwell is a well made, excellent shaver. I'm happy that I have both in my den.
Hope this is some help.