I have been using the Astra Superior Platinum this week, following Leisureguy’s protocol for determining which blade works best (for me of course – YMMV). My benchmark blade so far has been the Treet Blue Special carbon steel from Pakistan – an absolutely superb blade. After trying the Astra for a few days I can safely say that IMHO the Treet is still a better blade that gives an incredibly close and comfortable shave. Since I never use any blade more than twice, I can’t comment on the longevity issue, which might be relevant to some. Frankly, after investing so much money and time in soaps, creams, and razors, I’m not going to compromise my shaving pleasure for a dime-blade.

Today’s superlather was a combination of the strongly-scented Roger & Gallet soap with the rather insipid Williams (France) cream. Prep was with The Gentlemens Refinery Pre-shave oil, which I also used for the final touch-up pass instead of the Total Shaving Solution. An excellent shave, a solid 9.0 on my ten-point scale. The weakly-scented Williams cream was perfect with the highly perfumed R&G soap. The brush was my new Simpson Chubby 2 – a superb brush with a wonderful balance of softness and scrubbiness. Alum bar, The GR balm and cream, and a splash of Aqua Velva for extra cheesiness completed the grand finale!