• SumoMe

How to Load a Double Edge Safety RazorThis article is meant for beginners who recently upgraded to the world of double edge razors (for good reason) but don’t know how to load a double edge safety razor. I’ll be honest about it: when I first made the switch I didn’t know, either. Womp womp womp. Luckily, it doesn’t take a genius to figure out how to load a three piece safety razor. This three piece style is one of the more common versions, but it’s worth noting there are differing styles of safety razors. Also, in case you’re wondering, the razor I’m using for this demonstration is the Merkur model 180 chrome long-handled safety razor.

Lastly, for purposes of this article, I’m going to make up terms for each part of the safety razor. I have no shame. Are there “real” words out there? Probably, but I don’t know what they are, and the point is to explain the process clearly, not pretentiously. For this article, I’ll use the following terms: the blade (photo top), the bottom part (photo middle), the top part (photo bottom), and the handle (photo right).

1. Take the razor apart

The first step you need to do, is to take the razor apart. It should come apart into three pieces (as shown above), and you should have a blade handy (obviously). To do this, simply unscrew the handle and the top and bottom parts should easily come apart. Set them aside, and pick up your blade.

2. Place the blade on the prongs of the top part

How to Load a Double Edge Safety Razor

The top part has three prongs that should fit basically any blade out there (all blades have the same basic slit in the middle). Align the middle prong with the middle hole of the blade, and it should fit perfectly. Pro tip: grab the blade on the small sides, instead of the sharp long sides.

3. Place the bottom part on prongs, over the blade

How to Load a Double Edge Safety Razor

You basically want to make a sandwich here. As shown, you can see the lip of the bottom part should turn downwards (not upwards). This lip on the bottom part will act as a guard to keep you from cutting yourself (hence the name, “safety razor”). Hold this sandwich together and grab your handle.

4. Screw the handle into the middle prong

How to Load a Double Edge Safety Razor

Screw the handle into the big prong while holding the “sandwich” you just made. You will feel the pieces close together as the bottom part pushes into the top part. You will also see the blade bend into an arch of 30 degrees, which is exactly what you want. Make sure the handle is on there nice and tight, and you’re done!

See? That wasn’t too bad. Now you’re ready to start having the shave of your life. Enjoy!

Do you have any further questions about how to load a double edge safety razor? Ask away in the comments below.