Trying some new razors thanks to a generous DFS member

So a couple weeks ago venerable forum member (and super cool dude) EFDan sent me half of the razor section of his den to try out for a while. It originally started with a discussion about one razor in particular but he kept adding to the list, lol. I gladly obliged because I hadn't used any of them and like any of us, who wouldn't want to try some new razors? In this thread I'll post my thoughts on each one after using them for about a week or so. Here's a pic of the group...

From L-R: Timeless 0.95 smooth bar/scalloped top cap, Mühle R41 on a MR5 handle (not sure if this is the 2011 or 2013 version, I forgot to ask), ATT S1, ATT Calypso R1 and PAA Prismatic.

Have fun with the experimenting, Jeff.

Congrats on the test drives, Jeff!

Super generous on your part, EFDan !  That's awesome!

You can keep the 2013 R41 for all I care, but I want the handle back.

I did talk to him about the prismatic, but figured I would throw some other ones in there. I had the chance from another person (that doesn't post here) that had the motto, "Try before you buy don't waste your $$$ on something you aren't sure about." So I figured I would do the same for somebody else. I'm sure I'll get these back sometime in September now that he has a new Karve to play with lol.

Still curious to hear what you think about each of them. I know how I feel about them, but it is always interesting to hear what others think.

I'm looking forward to your thoughts, Jeff.  That was really a generous thing to do, EFDan.

Very cool offer EFDan ! It'll be interesting to see which one you try first wyze0ne

Well, I started out with the ATT S1 because I'm somewhat partial to slant razors. I was stoked to try this one and it did not disappoint. I shaved with it for a about a week and a half straight and found it to be smooth and efficient regardless of what blade I used (Astra SP, Polsilver, Bic Chrome Platinum). I always do 2 passes plus touch ups or a partial ATG pass and each time ended up damn near BBS. One particular shave with about 2 days growth was really stellar. If I had one gripe I guess it would be how far the safety bar sticks out beyond the edge of the top cap. This results in having to use a shallower angle than I'm used to. Not a big deal really, once I found the right angle it was smooth sailing from there. Also, the uneven blade exposure is a little unnerving, but that's how it was designed. I think my favorite thing about the razor is the feel of the knurling on the handle though. It's got a very nice grip and weight to it that gives you confident control even when wet or soapy. Overall a very nice razor and one I would consider purchasing.

Obligatory SOTD pic:

Ok, the next razor on loan from EFDan that I've used extensively is the one we originally started talking about, the PAA Prismatic. For the first shave, I used it in its original configuration with the woefully short handle. No thanks, I hate micro handles like this. From there out I put it on my Maggard MR5 and it was much better. I would classify this as an efficient, mid-aggressive razor. I like it! The amount of blade exposure it has would make you think it's a lot more aggressive than it is. The other thing I noticed is that this is the loudest DE I've ever used! It really makes the "buttering toast" sound that the older GEM razors make. I also appreciate the slim head profile that allows the razor to be very nimble and maneuverable. So other than the handle it comes with (unless you like teeny tiny short little handles that is), I think this razor would be a cool little addition to anyone's shave cave. IMO, it's not "too mild" or "too aggressive" which are complaints we always hear. It worked well with the few blades I tried so it's not too picky and it fills that void when you're in the mood for something a little different. Next up is the Timeless .95. (Who am I kidding. We all know I've tried all of them already, lol)

Bonus pic:

As regards best bang for the buck the Prismatic is the best new razor in years. And it does not shamefully copy the Merkur style head as 99% do nowadays, but rather copies an old French/British razor thats usage of a safety bar pre-dates Gilette's Tech by approx. 10 years!!!

Ok, the next razor on loan from EFDan that I've used extensively is the one we originally started talking about, the PAA Prismatic. For the first shave, I used it in its original configuration with the woefully short handle. No thanks, I hate micro handles like this. From there out I put it on my Maggard MR5 and it was much better. I would classify this as an efficient, mid-aggressive razor. I like it! The amount of blade exposure it has would make you think it's a lot more aggressive than it is. The other thing I noticed is that this is the loudest DE I've ever used! It really makes the "buttering toast" sound that the older GEM razors make. I also appreciate the slim head profile that allows the razor to be very nimble and maneuverable. So other than the handle it comes with (unless you like teeny tiny short little handles that is), I think this razor would be a cool little addition to anyone's shave cave. IMO, it's not "too mild" or "too aggressive" which are complaints we always hear. It worked well with the few blades I tried so it's not too picky and it fills that void when you're in the mood for something a little different. Next up is the Timeless .95. (Who am I kidding. We all know I've tried all of them already, lol)

Bonus pic:

Are you sure that's your mr5 handle or mine