I’ve tried a number of shaving products from India (Gio stocks a huge variety at Barbiera Italiana) but have generally been less than impressed. The shaving creams (under famous and not-so-famous brand names) have tended to sting and the blades have been “just O.K.” at best.

In my last order from B.I., Gio kindly threw in a few samples of various blades I hadn’t ordered (he’s just that kind of gentleman!). Among them were two Wilkinson Sword blades from India. Passing the sentiment forward, I made a small sample pack for Mr. Italo as a small gift for his turn at hosting our week-end card night that week (hey, it was cheaper than a bottle of wine!). A few days later he called to ask where he could buy more of those blades. I was intrigued and imediately put the other sample blade into the E.J. Chatsworth for a go-around-the block. Amazing! This is one outstanding blade, every bit as good as legendary blades such as the Treet Blue Special, the Russian Gillette 7-O’clock, and the Shark. Which of course highlights a problem I’ve discussed before….you can’t rely on brands to assure quality, you’ve got to keep an open mind to trying things from all over the place and keep your prejudices at bay.