Parker 87R Butterfly Safety Razor

Parker 87R Butterfly Safety Razor — image 1
Parker 87R Butterfly Safety Razor — image 2
Parker 87R Butterfly Safety Razor — image 3
Parker 87R Butterfly Safety Razor — image 4
Parker 87R Butterfly Safety Razor — image 5
83%
84%
Build Quality
91%
Ease of Use
78%
Shave Performance
72%
Handle Comfort
88%
Grip & Wet Control
83%
Value for Money
93%
Blade Compatibility
76%
Cleaning & Maintenance
87%
Travel Suitability
79%
Skin Comfort & Irritation
81%
Aesthetic & Finish
89%
Beginner Friendliness
74%
Long-Term Durability
More

Overview

The Parker 87R Butterfly Safety Razor arrives at a moment when traditional wet shaving has quietly won back a devoted following — and Parker has earned its place as a reliable mid-range name in that space. What makes this particular model stand out from Parker's own lineup is its compact 3-inch handle, a deliberate design choice rather than a compromise. The twist-to-open butterfly mechanism also separates it from three-piece razors, making blade changes faster and less fiddly. Built from solid brass with a chrome finish, it strikes a practical balance between durability and everyday convenience.

Features & Benefits

The knurled textured grip is the first thing you notice when this compact butterfly razor is wet — your fingers actually stay put, which matters far more than it sounds when you're angling across your jawline. At around 3 ounces, the brass frame feels substantial without tiring your wrist. The butterfly head opens with a single twist, so swapping blades takes seconds and involves no loose parts to drop down the drain. The medium-aggression blade gap is worth understanding: it means the razor cuts efficiently but doesn't demand perfect technique. Not baby-mild, not punishingly aggressive — a dependable middle ground for most beard textures. Five Parker Platinum blades are included to get you started right away.

Best For

This short-handle safety razor hits a specific sweet spot — it's an especially strong fit for anyone switching from cartridge razors who wants a forgiving entry into traditional shaving without the fussiness of a three-piece design. People with smaller hands or shorter fingers tend to find the 3-inch grip far more intuitive than the longer handles common in the category. It also travels well; the compact build slides into a dopp kit without drama. And if you tend to swap blades frequently or just dislike fumbling with separate razor components, the twist-to-open head makes the whole process almost effortless. It's a solid gift pick, too — complete, ready to use, and approachable for a newcomer.

User Feedback

Across more than 3,000 ratings, the Parker 87R sits at a 4.3-star average — broadly satisfied buyers, rarely polarized. Reviewers regularly mention how secure the grip feels during a real shave, and how refreshingly easy blade loading is compared to three-piece alternatives. The build quality gets consistent praise at this price tier. That said, shavers who prefer a longer or heavier handle sometimes find this compact razor feels a bit short in hand. A smaller subset of longer-term users also note the butterfly mechanism can loosen marginally over months of daily use, which is less common with solid three-piece construction. Still, repeat purchases and gift orders appear noticeably often — a quiet indicator of real-world reliability.

#Safety Razors
#Razors & Blades
#Men's
#Shave & Hair Removal
#Beauty & Personal Care

Pros

  • Twist-to-open blade loading is genuinely fast — no loose parts, no dropped components at the sink.
  • The deeply knurled grip holds firmly in wet, soapy hands without feeling aggressive on the palm.
  • Solid brass construction gives this compact butterfly razor a reassuring heft and long-term durability.
  • Medium aggression means most skin types can shave daily without chronic irritation or razor burn.
  • At roughly 3 ounces, it is light enough for travel without feeling cheap or flimsy.
  • Comes ready to use with five Parker Platinum blades — no extra purchase needed to start shaving.
  • Works with any standard double edge blade, so you are never locked into a proprietary system.
  • Compact 3-inch handle provides real precision around tight facial contours like the upper lip and chin.
  • Chrome-plated brass finish resists corrosion well even in consistently humid bathroom environments.
  • A 4.3-star average across more than 3,000 reviews signals consistent, broad satisfaction — not a lucky handful of fans.

Cons

  • The 3-inch handle will feel noticeably short for shavers with larger hands or those used to longer grips.
  • The butterfly mechanism can develop slight looseness after months of heavy daily use.
  • Three-piece razor fans may find the TTO head design less mechanically robust over the long run.
  • Medium aggression suits most, but leaves heavy-bearded shavers wanting more blade efficiency per pass.
  • The included Parker Platinum blades are decent but not universally loved — many buyers swap them out quickly.
  • Chrome plating can show water spots and minor surface wear more visibly than brushed or matte finishes.
  • Not ideal as a sole razor for those who also shave their head, where a longer handle typically helps.
  • The butterfly doors can trap fine hair debris and require slightly more thorough rinsing than a three-piece head.

Ratings

Our AI rating engine analyzed thousands of verified global reviews for the Parker 87R Butterfly Safety Razor, actively filtering out incentivized, bot-generated, and outlier feedback to surface what real daily shavers actually experience. The scores below reflect both the genuine strengths that keep buyers coming back and the recurring frustrations that prevent a perfect rating. Nothing has been glossed over.

Build Quality
84%
The solid brass frame is the detail buyers notice first when they pick it up — it has a density and solidity that reads immediately as durable rather than decorative. Chrome plating holds up well against daily bathroom humidity, and most long-term users report no significant corrosion or finish degradation after a year or more of regular use.
The butterfly hinge mechanism is the one structural weak point that separates this razor from three-piece alternatives. A meaningful subset of daily users report gradual loosening of the doors over extended use, introducing subtle blade wobble that affects shave consistency — a concern that solid one-piece or three-piece head designs simply do not share.
Ease of Use
91%
The twist-to-open head is the single biggest reason beginners choose this compact butterfly razor over three-piece designs. Opening, seating a blade, and closing takes under ten seconds with no loose parts to fumble — a genuinely meaningful advantage on early mornings or when switching blades mid-travel without a flat surface to work on.
A small number of users find the butterfly doors require a very specific seating motion to ensure the blade aligns perfectly — if the head is closed slightly off-center, blade exposure becomes uneven across the head. It is not common, but it is worth double-checking alignment during the first few blade changes until the motion becomes familiar.
Shave Performance
78%
22%
The medium-aggression tuning genuinely delivers a close, comfortable shave for most normal to moderately coarse beards without demanding expert-level angle control. Daily shavers report consistently clean results in two passes, which is a realistic expectation for this blade gap setting without chasing diminishing returns on extra passes.
Shavers with very thick, fast-growing, or wiry beard growth regularly report needing an additional pass where a more aggressive razor would finish cleanly in two. The closed comb and conservative blade gap, while forgiving, also means it occasionally leaves a trace of stubble in difficult contour areas like the philtrum and under the chin.
Handle Comfort
72%
28%
For shavers with smaller hands, the 3-inch grip is legitimately better than a longer handle — tighter fingertip control around the jawline and upper lip is noticeable, and the knurled texture keeps the razor from shifting even with a soapy palm. Users who shave their neck report particular appreciation for the maneuverability the compact length provides.
This is the most divisive dimension among reviewers. Shavers with average to large hands, or anyone transitioning from a standard 4-inch handle, consistently describe the grip as feeling uncomfortably short — almost like writing with a pencil stub. For this group, the comfort advantage disappears entirely, and the razor can actually feel harder to control than a longer alternative.
Grip & Wet Control
88%
The deeply knurled texture cut into the brass handle is functional, not cosmetic. Reviewers specifically mention feeling secure grip retention mid-shave even with heavy lather on their hands, which reduces the instinct to over-grip and press — a common cause of irritation for new safety razor users learning proper pressure technique.
The knurling, while effective, can feel slightly abrasive against the underside of the fingers during longer shaving sessions, particularly for those who grip tightly out of habit. This is minor but worth noting for anyone with sensitive fingertip skin or those who shave for extended periods.
Value for Money
83%
At its price point, this short-handle safety razor includes five starter blades and delivers a brass construction that competes favorably with significantly more expensive alternatives. Buyers making the switch from cartridge razors also factor in the long-term blade cost savings, where DE blades cost a fraction of cartridge refills — and that math improves the value proposition considerably.
The handful of competing butterfly razors in the same price band offer longer handles and comparable build quality, which makes the value case slightly less clear-cut for buyers who are indifferent to handle length. A few reviewers also feel that the included Parker Platinum blades are not the most impressive way to experience the razor and wish a blade sampler pack had been included instead.
Blade Compatibility
93%
Universal DE blade compatibility is exactly what it claims — Feather, Astra, Derby, Gillette Silver Blue, and every other standard format blade loads cleanly with no fitting issues reported. This openness to the full DE blade ecosystem is one of the most practically important attributes of this razor for experienced wet shavers who already have a preferred blade.
A very small number of reviewers noted that extremely thin DE blades — a few ultra-budget options — can sit with marginally less rigidity in the butterfly head compared to heavier-gauge blades. This is a blade quality issue rather than a razor flaw, but it is worth knowing if you plan to experiment with bargain-tier blade options.
Cleaning & Maintenance
76%
24%
Daily rinsing under running water takes only seconds — opening the butterfly doors and flushing the head clears lather and hair debris without tools or disassembly. The chrome-plated brass surface wipes clean easily and does not develop soap scum buildup as visibly as matte or darker finishes tend to.
The hinge points where the butterfly doors meet the razor body are a consistent nuisance for thorough cleaning — fine hair and mineral deposits accumulate there faster than on a three-piece head and require deliberate flushing or occasional toothbrush scrubbing to keep the mechanism operating smoothly over time.
Travel Suitability
87%
The 3-inch handle and lightweight brass body make this one of the more practical safety razors for travel — it slips into a dopp kit without occupying much space, and the one-piece loading system means there are no small components to lose in a bag. Reviewers who travel frequently cite it as their dedicated travel razor even when they own larger models at home.
Like all DE razors, the blades cannot go in carry-on luggage under TSA and international aviation rules, which requires either checking a bag, mailing blades ahead, or buying them at the destination. This is not unique to this razor, but it is a real logistical consideration for frequent short-trip travelers who prefer carry-on only.
Skin Comfort & Irritation
79%
21%
The medium-aggression closed comb setup is genuinely forgiving for most skin types, and many reviewers with sensitive skin report significantly less post-shave irritation compared to their previous cartridge razors. The consistent blade exposure across the head reduces the pressure variation that often causes micro-cuts during learning phases.
Shavers with particularly reactive or thin skin occasionally find even the medium-aggressive setting too stimulating for daily use, preferring to shave every other day to allow skin recovery. The razor itself is not the issue in these cases, but the category as a whole favors those whose skin can tolerate a steel blade at close range on a daily schedule.
Aesthetic & Finish
81%
19%
The polished chrome over brass gives the Parker 87R a clean, classic look that sits naturally on a bathroom shelf without looking cheap. Reviewers who purchased it as a gift specifically mention the presentation — it reads as a premium object at first glance, which matters when gifting to someone unfamiliar with traditional shaving hardware.
The chrome finish shows water spots and fingerprints fairly readily, requiring a quick wipe-down after each use to maintain the polished appearance. Over a longer timeline, high-contact areas on the handle show minor surface wear that dulls the finish, which bothers some buyers more than others depending on how much they care about aesthetics.
Beginner Friendliness
89%
The combination of a forgiving blade gap, one-handed butterfly loading, and included starter blades removes most of the barriers that cause beginners to abandon traditional shaving early. The learning curve is notably shorter than with three-piece razors, and the closed comb provides a safety buffer that builds real confidence during the first week of use.
The compact handle, while ideal for some, can actually introduce a small additional challenge for beginners with larger hands who are still developing their shaving angle instincts — an unstable grip magnifies technique errors more than a longer handle would. New shavers with big hands may benefit from trying a longer-handled beginner razor first.
Long-Term Durability
74%
26%
The brass body itself ages extremely well — there are verified reviews from buyers who have used the same razor daily for three or more years with no structural failure of the frame or handle. The material simply does not rust or degrade in bathroom conditions the way zinc alloy or plastic-framed alternatives do.
The butterfly mechanism introduces a mechanical complexity that the solid body does not share. Hinge wear over thousands of open-close cycles is real, and while the razor remains functional for most, some users experience enough looseness in the doors after extended daily use that they move to a three-piece razor for greater long-term mechanical reliability.

Suitable for:

The Parker 87R Butterfly Safety Razor is a natural fit for anyone making their first serious move away from cartridge razors — it requires less technique than a three-piece razor and delivers a noticeably better shave than a disposable without a steep learning curve. Shavers with smaller hands or shorter fingers will find the 3-inch handle unusually comfortable to maneuver, especially around the jawline and under the nose where precision actually matters. If you travel frequently and want a compact, lightweight razor that won't rattle around or take up much kit space, this short-handle design packs and carries well. The twist-to-open head also makes it a strong choice for anyone who simply dislikes fussing with loose razor parts at the sink — blade changes take seconds, one-handed. And if you're buying a traditional shaving gift for someone new to the hobby, this compact butterfly razor ships ready to use with blades included, which removes one common barrier for beginners.

Not suitable for:

Shavers who prefer a longer, heavier handle will likely find the Parker 87R Butterfly Safety Razor frustrating rather than freeing — the 3-inch grip that suits smaller hands can feel stubby and hard to control for those accustomed to a 4-inch or longer handle. If you already own a collection of three-piece razors and value the mechanical simplicity and long-term robustness of that design, the butterfly mechanism may feel like a step down; over months of daily use, some buyers report it loosening slightly. Experienced wet shavers chasing an aggressive, highly efficient blade exposure will also find this razor too conservative — the medium-aggression tuning is intentional, but it won't satisfy anyone who wants to clear thick, coarse growth in one tight pass. Finally, if you have strong blade brand preferences and are hoping to fine-tune your shave through exotic blade pairings, the included Parker blades are a reasonable starting point but may not represent the quality ceiling you're after.

Specifications

  • Handle Length: The handle measures 3 inches, making it one of the more compact options in Parker's safety razor lineup.
  • Weight: The razor weighs approximately 3 oz, providing a balanced feel without excessive heft during a shave.
  • Frame Material: The body is constructed from solid brass, a dense, corrosion-resistant metal commonly used in premium wet shaving hardware.
  • Finish: The brass frame is coated with a chrome plating that resists rust and gives the razor its polished silver appearance.
  • Head Mechanism: The head uses a twist-to-open butterfly design, where rotating the base of the handle causes two doors to splay open for blade access.
  • Comb Type: The razor features a closed comb head, which provides a protective bar between the blade edge and skin for a more forgiving shave.
  • Aggression Level: The blade gap is tuned to a medium-aggression setting, balancing efficient cutting with a reduced risk of nicks or irritation.
  • Blade Compatibility: The razor accepts any standard double edge (DE) blade, which is the universal format used by virtually all safety razor blade manufacturers.
  • Included Blades: Five Parker Premium Platinum double edge blades are included in the box, providing enough supply to begin shaving immediately.
  • Grip Type: The handle features a deeply knurled texture, machined into the brass to provide traction even when hands are wet and soapy.
  • Model Number: The official Parker model designation for this razor is 87R, which distinguishes it from other models in the Parker butterfly series.
  • Manufacturer: This razor is manufactured by Parker Safety Razor, a brand with a long-standing presence in the traditional wet shaving market.
  • Item Count: Each purchase includes one razor unit along with the five starter blades — no additional handle or head components are sold separately in this package.
  • User Rating: The razor holds a 4.3-out-of-5-star average rating based on more than 3,197 verified customer reviews on Amazon.
  • Category Rank: It ranks at approximately #206 in the Men's Safety Shaving Razors category on Amazon, placing it among the more consistently purchased options in that segment.

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FAQ

It is simpler than it looks. Grip the handle and twist the very bottom of it counterclockwise — the two metal doors on the head will hinge open. Lay a fresh double edge blade across the exposed posts, then twist the handle back clockwise until the doors close snugly around the blade. That is all there is to it; no loose pieces, no threading, no fumbling.

Any standard DE blade will fit — Feather, Astra, Derby, Gillette Silver Blue, Shark, and dozens of others all load without issue. The five Parker Platinum blades in the box are a reasonable starting point, but most shavers eventually experiment with other brands to find what works best for their skin and beard type. Blade sampler packs are widely available and worth trying.

For most beginners, yes. The Parker 87R Butterfly Safety Razor is designed with a medium-aggression blade gap, which means it cuts well without being punishing if your angle or pressure is slightly off. The closed comb head adds another layer of forgiveness. The twist-to-open head also removes the intimidation factor of handling loose razor parts, which is one common reason beginners hesitate.

Think of aggression as how directly exposed the blade edge is to your skin. A mild razor feels very safe but may require extra passes to get a close shave. An aggressive razor cuts in one or two passes but punishes poor technique with irritation. Medium sits in the middle — efficient enough for a genuinely close result, forgiving enough that most people can use it daily without persistent razor burn. For normal to moderately coarse beards, it tends to land well.

It depends entirely on your hand size and what you are used to. For shavers with smaller hands or shorter fingers, the compact grip actually feels more controlled. For people accustomed to a 4-inch or longer handle, it can take some adjustment and may never feel quite right. If you already own longer-handled razors and find them comfortable, this short-handle safety razor may not be the best fit for you.

The razor itself — the handle and head — is allowed in carry-on luggage. However, blades of any kind, including DE blades, are not permitted in carry-on bags and must go in checked luggage. Most experienced traveling wet shavers pack the razor in their carry-on and buy inexpensive blades at their destination, or pack blades separately in checked bags.

After each shave, open the butterfly doors, remove the blade carefully, and rinse the head thoroughly under warm running water. The hinge area between the doors can collect fine hair and soap residue over time, so running water directly into those gaps helps. A soft toothbrush occasionally works well for a deeper clean. Leaving it open to air dry after rinsing will help the chrome finish last longer.

The brass construction is genuinely durable, and most users report years of reliable use. That said, a small portion of long-term daily users do notice the butterfly doors develop a very slight looseness after extended heavy use — the hinge points can relax over time in a way that a solid three-piece razor head simply would not. It is not a universal problem, but it is worth knowing if longevity of the mechanism is a priority for you.

It is one of the more thoughtful options in this price range for that purpose. The razor arrives with blades included, so there is nothing extra to buy before the first shave. The butterfly loading system removes the most confusing part of three-piece razors for beginners. And the mid-range build quality means it feels like a real, considered gift rather than an entry-level throwaway.

The core shaving mechanics are very similar — both use the same butterfly opening system and comparable blade gap tuning. The main differences are handle length and weight. The 99R is longer and heavier, which some shavers prefer for the added leverage and wrist stability. This compact butterfly razor suits those who want more maneuverability and a lighter kit, while the 99R tends to appeal to shavers who like a more substantial feel in hand.