The MERKUR FUTUR 700 Adjustable Double Edge Safety Razor is a premium grooming tool crafted in Germany, known for its precision engineering and timeless design.
Featuring a high-quality brass body with a sleek Matte Chrome finish, this razor offers six adjustable settings to suit different beard types and skin sensitivities.
Its weight and balance provide a close, irritation-free shave with minimal pressure, making it ideal for both experienced users and careful beginners.
With durable construction, eco-friendly materials, and compatibility with standard double-edge blades, the FUTUR 700 stands out as a cost-effective, long-term alternative to disposable razors and cartridge systems.
Product Overview
The MERKUR FUTUR 700 is an adjustable double edge safety razor available in a Matte Chrome finish. It is manufactured in Germany and embodies timeless German craftsmanship and precision, with the company MERKUR Stahlwaren GmbH & Co. being a leading worldwide manufacturer of quality shaving equipment since 1906.
The razor is designed to be plastic-free with a handle made of high-quality brass, making it heavier than aluminum and plastic razors. It typically sells for $99.13.
Adjustable Design and Blade Replacement
A key feature of the MERKUR FUTUR 700 is its adjustable design, which allows users to adapt the razor to their facial hair length for a custom shave.
This adjustability is achieved by a dial on the handle that modifies the blade gap, eliminating irritation and offering a precise shave without nicks, making it ideal for sensitive skin.
The razor offers six progressive levels of blade gap, with level 1 being the smallest gap and level 6 offering the widest. Users can fine-tune the closeness of the shave and adjust the setting for sensitive areas like the neck.
The razor also features a snap-on cap design for easy blade replacements, requiring users to press and lift the cap to securely insert a new blade.
However, some users note that changing blades and adjusting settings can be a delicate and challenging process, as fingers can come close to the blade.
German Craftsmanship and Durability
The MERKUR FUTUR 700 is a product of German craftsmanship, designed for durability and ensuring a smooth and comfortable shaving experience.
MERKUR razors are described as precision instruments built to last a lifetime. The handle is constructed from high-quality brass with a Matte Chrome finish, contributing to its heavier weight, which aids in a smoother shave as the razor’s weight does the work rather than applied pressure.
The product’s country of origin is Germany, and it is manufactured by Derby International LLC, dba KANAR, a subsidiary of DOVO Solingen Steelware.
Shaving Experience and Benefits
The adjustable blade gap helps achieve a smooth, irritation-free shave by allowing users to eliminate razor burn, nicks, and cuts, which is particularly beneficial for sensitive skin or coarse hair. Unlike multi-blade cartridge razor systems, using a single blade double edge razor can help prevent irritation and razor bumps.
The weight of the razor is seen as a positive aspect by users, simplifying shaving as it requires less pressure, thus preventing cuts and ingrown hairs caused by excessive pressure.
The razor is compatible with any standard double edge razor blade, which offers outstanding performance at an affordable cost without requiring subscriptions or custom blades.
Shaving with this type of razor involves holding it at about a 30-degree angle and shaving in the direction of hair growth (“with the grain”).
For experienced users, it can provide a closer shave, with some finding setting “1” to be more aggressive than other razors. Some users recommend starting at a lower setting, like “1” or “1.5,” to avoid cuts, especially for beginners.
Despite some initial challenges for newcomers to wet shaving, some users found it to be an effective tool even for beginners, as its adjustability allows for adapting to different comfort levels.
Cost-Effectiveness and Environmental Benefits
Transitioning to a double-edged razor like the MERKUR FUTUR 700 can lead to significant cost savings over time compared to disposable multi-blade cartridges.
While the initial investment for the razor and related wet shaving accessories might be around $170-$210, the ongoing cost for razor blades is very low, for example, $8 for 100 blades, which can last for years.
Furthermore, the razor’s plastic-free design and compatibility with recyclable double edge razor blades contribute to its ecological benefits, reducing plastic waste associated with disposable razors.
User Reviews and Considerations
The MERKUR FUTUR 700 has a customer rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars based on 1,793 ratings. Many users praise its quality, effectiveness, and the ability to customize the shave. It is considered a quality product and a “work of art” by some.
However, some users note potential challenges:
Aggressiveness:
Some consider it an aggressive razor, particularly at higher settings, and recommend it for experienced safety razor users rather than absolute beginners to avoid “face carnage”.
Blade/Setting Changes:
The snap-on cap design for blade changes and the method for adjusting settings can be delicate, as fingers might come close to the blade.
Head Size:
The razor’s head is thicker than classic double-edge razors, which some users found makes it slightly difficult to shave the area directly under the nose, though solutions exist.
Slippery Surface:
While some initial concerns about the smooth, non-knurled handle being slippery were raised, users found the matte chrome finish provides sufficient grip, and slipperiness is primarily an issue if hands are covered in shaving soap.
Despite these considerations, users who adapt to its use often find it to be their “favorite razor ever” and achieve very close shaves.
It is seen as a durable, long-term investment that can replace disposables for a more involved, ecological, and cost-effective shaving experience.
Final Verdict
The MERKUR FUTUR 700 Adjustable Double Edge Safety Razor is a standout choice for those seeking a premium, customizable shaving experience.
With its sleek design, solid brass construction, and six adjustable settings, it combines German engineering with functional elegance.
While it may pose a slight learning curve for beginners, especially due to its weight, aggressiveness, and blade-changing mechanism, those willing to adapt will find it rewarding.
Its durability, eco-friendliness, and long-term cost savings make it a smart investment for serious wet shavers. For users who value precision, comfort, and craftsmanship, the FUTUR 700 is more than a razor, it’s a grooming upgrade.
Check price on Amazon
