Overview

The Edwin Jagger DE87 Double Edge Safety Razor is made in Sheffield, England, by a manufacturer with a long history in traditional wet shaving gear. Pick it up and the weight feels right away — not too light, not clubby — thanks to an acrylic handle finished in an imitation ivory shade with a hand-polished, chrome-plated shine. The head is a closed comb DE8 design, which is built to give new shavers more control and fewer surprises than an aggressive open comb setup. Edwin Jagger ships it in proper presentation packaging with a care booklet, so it doesn't feel like a bare-bones purchase, and the whole thing is clearly meant to be a long-term tool rather than something you replace every few months.

Features & Benefits

What stands out about this safety razor is how the single stainless-steel blade changes the whole shaving experience. Multi-blade cartridges tend to tug and irritate, but a single edge with the right blade angle glides through stubble and leaves far fewer nicks behind. The closed comb head is forgiving, which makes this DE razor a sensible entry point before moving to sharper open comb designs. Since it works with any standard double edge blade, you're not stuck buying one brand's overpriced refills — you can experiment with budget blades until you find your favorite. At under two and a half ounces, the handle feels balanced rather than top-heavy, and that lighter, reusable build also means a lot less plastic cartridge waste piling up over the years.

Best For

This DE razor makes the most sense for shavers who are tired of buying expensive cartridge refills every few weeks and want something that pays for itself over time. Beginners curious about traditional wet shaving but nervous about aggressive blades will appreciate the forgiving head, since it's a gentler starting point than an open comb razor. It's also a solid pick for anyone dealing with razor burn or ingrown hairs caused by multi-blade systems, since a single blade tends to be kinder to sensitive skin. The classic look and nice presentation box make it an easy gift idea too, especially for someone just starting to build a wet shaving routine and wanting quality without spending a fortune upfront.

User Feedback

Feedback from people who've actually used the Edwin Jagger razor for a while tends to split into two honest camps. Plenty of long-term owners say the shave gets noticeably smoother once they dial in the right angle and pressure, and many call the fit and finish impressive for what they paid. On the flip side, several first-timers admit there's a real adjustment period — a few nicked their skin during the first week before their technique caught up. Some reviewers also point out that experienced shavers eventually want something with more bite than a closed comb head offers. Where almost everyone agrees, though, is on the long-term savings: compared to disposable cartridges, the lower per-shave cost and reduced waste make the early learning curve feel worth it.

Pros

  • Single blade design means noticeably fewer nicks once you learn the angle
  • Compatible with any standard DE blade, so you're never locked into one brand
  • Lightweight, well-balanced handle feels comfortable rather than top-heavy during long shaves
  • Reusable build cuts down on plastic cartridge waste over the years
  • Closed comb head is genuinely forgiving for first-time safety razor users
  • Hand-polished chrome finish gives it a premium look for the price tier
  • Edwin Jagger DE87 Double Edge Safety Razor offers real long-term savings versus cartridges
  • Comes with nice presentation packaging and a care booklet, good for gifting
  • Helps reduce razor burn and ingrown hairs compared to multi-blade cartridges
  • Unisex design makes it a practical pick for households sharing one razor

Cons

  • Blades are sold separately, which can surprise buyers expecting a ready-to-use kit
  • First-time users often nick themselves while learning correct blade angle and pressure
  • Closed comb head may feel too mild for shavers wanting a more aggressive cut
  • Requires more technique and patience than a simple disposable cartridge razor
  • Handle material is synthetic imitation ivory, not real ivory as the color might suggest
  • Learning curve means early shaves can take noticeably longer than usual
  • Not ideal for travelers wanting a fast, low-maintenance grab-and-go option
  • Some experienced wet shavers may outgrow it and want a sharper open comb design

Ratings

After analyzing thousands of verified buyer reviews from wet shaving communities and retail platforms worldwide, our AI-driven scoring engine breaks down exactly how the Edwin Jagger DE87 Double Edge Safety Razor performs across the categories that matter most. Spam, bot-generated, and incentivized reviews were filtered out to keep the data honest. The scores below reflect both the praise and the genuine frustrations real owners report.

Shave Closeness
88%
Once users get the angle right, this DE razor delivers a noticeably closer shave than multi-blade cartridges, especially along the jawline and neck. Many describe their skin feeling smoother by the second day compared to disposable razors.
Getting that closeness consistently takes a few weeks of practice, and rushed first attempts often leave patchy results. A handful of users with coarser facial hair wanted slightly more aggressive blade exposure.
Skin Comfort & Irritation
84%
People with sensitive skin or a history of razor burn frequently mention fewer red bumps and less post-shave stinging after switching to a single blade. This makes it a popular pick for daily shavers prone to ingrown hairs.
A small number of beginners experienced more irritation initially simply from using too much pressure, a common rookie mistake with any DE razor. Comfort scores drop slightly until proper technique is learned.
Build Quality
91%
The hand-polished chrome finish and solid acrylic handle consistently impress owners, who note it feels far sturdier than its price tier suggests. Many mention it still looks new after years of regular use.
A few buyers wished the handle had a slightly more textured grip for wet bathroom use. Some also noted the chrome can show fine scratches if dropped on hard tile.
Beginner Friendliness
79%
21%
The closed comb head is widely recommended as a safer starting point than open comb designs, giving new wet shavers room to learn without excessive nicking. First-timers often graduate to confident technique within two to three weeks.
There is still a real adjustment period, and some new users got discouraged after a rough first shave or two. It is not a true zero-learning-curve product despite being beginner-oriented.
Value for Money
86%
Owners consistently point out that switching from cartridge refills to cheap double edge blades pays off within a few months, especially for daily shavers. Long-term savings are one of the most repeated themes in reviews.
The upfront cost is higher than a drugstore disposable razor, which can deter budget shoppers who shave infrequently. Savings only materialize if you actually stick with the routine long enough.
Blade Compatibility
93%
Since it accepts any standard double edge blade, users love being able to shop around brands and price points instead of being locked into proprietary cartridges. This flexibility is repeatedly called a major selling point.
First-time buyers occasionally find the sheer number of blade brand options overwhelming, and a small minority bought a poorly matched blade for their skin on the first try.
Ergonomics & Grip
81%
19%
The balanced, lightweight handle feels comfortable for extended shaving sessions, and many describe it as neither too heavy nor flimsy in hand. It suits a range of hand sizes well.
A polished acrylic handle can feel slippery when wet or soapy, and a few users mentioned wanting better traction during a hurried morning shave.
Aesthetic & Finish
89%
The imitation ivory color paired with chrome accents gives it a classic, barbershop-style look that many owners say elevates their bathroom counter setup. It is frequently praised in gifting contexts for this reason.
A few buyers expected the material to feel more premium given the ivory-inspired branding, only to realize it is a synthetic acrylic rather than anything more exotic.
Sustainability & Eco-Friendliness
85%
Reviewers who care about reducing plastic waste appreciate that only a small steel blade needs replacing instead of a bulky plastic cartridge. Several mention switching specifically to cut down on bathroom waste.
Blades still require proper disposal since they are sharp metal, and a few users noted they had to research safe blade disposal methods, which added a small extra step.
Packaging & Gift Appeal
90%
The presentation box and included care booklet make this a go-to gift recommendation in shaving forums, often given to graduates or as a Father's Day present. Recipients seem to appreciate the polished unboxing experience.
A couple of buyers noted the included instructions are fairly basic and a true beginner may still need to look up additional tutorials online to feel confident.
Durability & Longevity
87%
Long-term owners report using the same razor for years with no functional decline, since only the blade wears out. The handle and head hold up well to daily bathroom humidity when dried properly.
Neglecting basic care, like leaving it wet in a humid shower caddy, can eventually dull the chrome shine over time according to a few longtime users.
Versatility for All Users
78%
22%
Its unisex styling and moderate weight make this DE razor a practical shared option for households, and several reviewers mention partners using the same one comfortably. It suits both legs and facial shaving routines reasonably well.
Some users shaving larger body areas found the smaller head meant more passes were needed compared to a multi-blade cartridge designed for broader coverage.

Suitable for:

The Edwin Jagger DE87 Double Edge Safety Razor is a strong fit for anyone tired of paying for overpriced cartridge refills and ready to switch to a cheaper, more sustainable shaving system. It works especially well for beginners, since the closed comb head is forgiving enough to learn proper blade angle without getting chewed up in the process. People dealing with razor burn, irritation, or ingrown hairs from multi-blade cartridges often find a single stainless-steel blade much kinder to their skin. Because it's unisex in styling and weight, it suits anyone wanting a classic, no-frills tool rather than something marketed narrowly to one gender. It also makes a thoughtful gift for someone exploring traditional wet shaving for the first time, thanks to the nice presentation packaging and included care booklet. Budget-conscious buyers planning to shave for years will likely appreciate how quickly the lower cost of blades offsets the upfront price.

Not suitable for:

That said, the Edwin Jagger DE87 Double Edge Safety Razor is not the right choice for anyone wanting an instant, mistake-free shave straight out of the box. There's a real learning curve here, and impatient buyers who nick themselves a few times before finding the right pressure may get frustrated and give up early. Experienced wet shavers who prefer more aggressive blade exposure may also find the closed comb head too mild once they've built up confidence and want a closer, faster shave. Anyone unwilling to buy blades separately should know upfront that none are included, which can catch first-time buyers off guard. People who travel frequently or want a low-maintenance grab-and-go razor may also find the upkeep and technique required less convenient than a disposable cartridge. Finally, buyers expecting genuine ivory materials should know the handle uses a synthetic imitation finish instead.

Specifications

  • Brand: This razor is manufactured by Edwin Jagger, a long-established shaving brand based in England.
  • Model Number: The item model number is DE87BLAMZ.
  • Handle Material: The handle is made from acrylic with an imitation ivory finish, not genuine ivory.
  • Head Type: It uses a closed comb DE8 head designed to offer more control and a gentler blade exposure.
  • Finish: The handle is hand polished and chrome plated for a smooth, reflective surface.
  • Handle Length: The handle measures 83mm, or about 3.3 inches, in length.
  • Overall Length: The full razor measures 93mm, or roughly 3.7 inches, from end to end.
  • Weight: The razor weighs approximately 68 grams, or about 2.4 ounces.
  • Blade Type: It uses a single standard double edge stainless-steel blade, which is sold separately.
  • Blade Compatibility: The head accepts any standard double edge blade, regardless of brand.
  • Number of Blades Included: No blades are included with the razor at purchase.
  • Country of Origin: The razor is manufactured in Sheffield, England.
  • Intended Users: The design is unisex and suitable for beginner through professional shavers.
  • Packaging: It ships in presentation packaging along with a printed care booklet and basic instructions.
  • Maintenance: Routine care involves rinsing the head after use and periodically drying and storing it to prevent corrosion.
  • Reusability: Only the blade needs replacing over time, while the handle and head are designed for long-term reuse.

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FAQ

No, blades are sold separately. You will need to pick up a pack of standard double edge blades before your first shave.

Yes, the closed comb head is considered fairly forgiving, which makes it a reasonable starting point for beginners. That said, expect a short adjustment period while you get used to the correct blade angle and pressure.

Some minor nicks while learning are pretty common with any double edge razor, including this one. Most people find the learning curve smooths out after a handful of shaves once they get a feel for the angle.

Yes, the head is compatible with all standard double edge blades, so you're not tied to one specific brand. This makes it easy to experiment until you find a blade that suits your skin.

No, despite the name, the handle uses a synthetic imitation ivory material rather than real ivory. It's a design choice for the classic look, not an animal product.

At around 2.4 ounces, it has a noticeable but balanced weight, not too light and not top-heavy. Most users describe the feel as comfortable rather than fatiguing during a normal shave.

Yes, the design and weight are unisex, so it works well for anyone interested in traditional wet shaving regardless of gender. It's also a popular gift option for that reason.

The biggest difference is that this Edwin Jagger DE87 Double Edge Safety Razor uses a single replaceable blade instead of a multi-blade cartridge head. Many people find this reduces irritation and razor burn over time, plus it tends to be cheaper per shave.

Yes, it ships in presentation packaging with a care booklet and basic instructions included. It feels like a proper gift rather than a bare-bones purchase.

The handle and head are built to last for years with basic care, since only the blade wears out and needs replacing. Rinsing it after use and keeping it dry between shaves goes a long way toward preventing corrosion.