Mr. Steel Beard was the original Philishave® mascot and is the property of Royal Philips Electronics.  He looks so handsome that I made him the Electric Shaver Page's mascot.  The Mr. Steel Beard graphic appears courtesy of the Philishave Collectors Club.

Tell Mr. Steel Beard

This is an archival section of the Electric Shaver Page  featuring postings made in 2000. Click here to read the current postings.  If you want to add your comments, E-mail me with the subject line TELL MR. STEEL BEARD in ALL CAPITAL LETTERS with your comments.  Comments will be screened for suitability to all ages.

From: AlandHarriet@aol.com

Date: Saturday, December 30, 2000 2:22 PM

Mr. Steel Beard,

I hope you can help. I have a Norelco model 5885XL razor. The NiCad batteries are deceased. I like the razor and would like to get them replaced if possible.

After opening the razor I find that the batteries seem to be soldered or welded to the circuit board making replacement a bit more difficult than I would have thought. A visit to the www.norelco.com showed no sign or mention of the batteries being a line replacement unit.

Can I replace the batteries in my 5885XL? If so, is it economically feasable to do so?

Thanks!!

Al Johnson

Thanks for your question, Al.  Yes, it is feasible to replace the rechargeable batteries on your Norelco (or Philishave) shaver.  At least a couple of people who contacted me mentioned that they did that successfully.  You may have already noticed that you need to have soldering skills in order the replace the batteries.  Fortunately, Radio Shack is selling replacement shaver batteries again.  Their current catalog for the USA lists two battery packs which say that they fit different Norelco models.  They list catalog numbers 960-0508 for $7.99 and 960-0504 for $16.99.  These two battery packs have different shapes so you can easily figure out if either one fits your shaver.  Bring your old battery pack to make sure that they have one which matches yours.  The Norelco web site at http://www.norelco.com does not list service parts and replacement batteries are considered service parts which are available at Norelco service centers and Norelco authorized service centers.

From: "Ric Elliott" <vols01_1999@yahoo.com>

Date: Friday, December 29, 2000 1:07 PM

Hello,

I bought the Norelco Reflex Action 5811XL about 4 weeks ago and love the close shave that I have been getting. However, after not initially noticing, I have been getting red marks and red streaks on my neck area on a consistent basis. Is there anything I can do to avoid this problem?

Thanks,

Ric Elliott

Thanks for your note Ric.  Neck irritation is a common problem and I do have some tips:

1.  Don't press too hard while shaving.

2.  Shave against the grain so that flatter whiskers stand up before cutting.

3.  Use a pre-shave to better lubricate the skin so the shaver glides better with fewer strokes and the fewer the strokes, the less irritation.

I hope this helps.

From: "John Inkata" <inkata@hotmail.com>

Date: Wednesday, December 27, 2000 7:05 AM

Hi,

I have just bought a Philishave HQ6825 and have plugged it in the wall to charge the battery for the first time. During recharging, I have noticed that there is a soft high pitched ringing coming from the shaver itself.

What is causing the ringing sound and is this normal?

Thanks kindly,

John (from Australia).

Thanks for your question, John.  Because my Philishave HQ6425 shaver (also a Quadra Action shaver like yours) is a corded model, I can't tell you directly from my experience concerning the Quadra Action line.  But I do have a Philishave HQ5865 Reflex Action rechargeable shaver I can listen carefully to.  I held the shaver right next to my ear before pluging it into the mains outlet and I did hear a slight whistling sound similar to the high-pitched ringing you mentioned.  I think of this as similar to the sound you hear when you set up the electronic flash of your camera before taking a flash picture.  So I consider the ringing sound during charging to be normal.  I hope this helps.

From: Brian Cave

Date: Tuesday, December 26, 2000 7:33 PM

Hello.

I have used a philishave microgroove razor for a while now. The shave is reasonable but I have to be very careful around the neck area or it will become irritated. I am wondering if I would be better off with a reflex model with setting adjustment or a Quadra model which does not have setting adjustments. Thank you and HAPPY NEW YEAR.

Brian

Thanks for your question, Brian.  If you can still find the Philishave Reflex Action shavers with the closeness/comfort adjustment, I would go for that because I would think they would be at a good price now.  This is because the newer Reflex Action models do not have this adjustment.  With both the Philishave Reflex Action and Quadra Action models, the entire head assembly adjust to the contours of your face in a three-dimensional manner to give you closer contact to your face.  One way to minimize irritation is to start with a dry face.  If humidity prevents you have having a dry face, I found that the pre-shave powder stick helps me to shave with fewer strokes and the fewer strokes you make, the less irritation.  I've been impressed with my Quadra Action shaver.  I still use my Reflex Action rechargeable shaver with the adjustment when I 'm away from home.  So if you can't find a Reflex Action model with the adjustment, I would go with a Quadra Action model.  I hope this helps.

From: "McCain, Michael W. ENS" <michael.mccain@persnet.navy.mil>

Date: Tuesday, December 26, 2000 6:04 PM

Hello. Thanks for the great page. I have a pretty tough beard and have always had a tough time getting a great shave. I've tried various electric razors, including a Norelco 885XL (I think that was the number), Remington Microscreen 3, and Braun Flex Integral, but never got good results. After each shave I could touch my face and it never felt smooth. I even tried the Remington Face Saver Pre Shave stick but with only minimal improvement. I'm stuck shaving with a Gillette Mach 3 blade, which is the best blade I've ever used. Unfortunately, I have sensitive skin so I get cut up, even with this. My brother, who's a Marine, taught me to shave with a blade in the shower and the steam keeps my face moist. I get the closest and most comfortable shave yet without the irritation. Unfortunately, I'm a Naval officer and will be forced to go on week long field exercises where appropriate shower facilities may not be available. I don't want to go out in front of my men all cut up and irritated from a blade and I don't want an electric razor that will make me look like I barely shaved at all...especially later in the day ( I can get in trouble from my superiors for bad appearance:). I am willing to try an electric razor again, if the technology and closeness have improved since the above models I once tried.

Can you recommend one...I was looking at a Norelco Quadra Action, a Remington Microscreen 3 TCT, or a Braun Syncro. Again I have a tough beard, especially below the chin and on the neck. Please help me out!

I'll try to, Ens. McCain and thanks for your note.  Because of your duties in the Navy, I would think that having to take any bulky accessories with you would not be a good idea so that eliminates the Braun Syncro with its cleaning unit.  So this leaves you two choices: the Norelco or Philishave Quadra Action (depending on where in the world you pick it up) or the Remington MicroScreen 3 TCT.  Both offer improvements in cutting long and short whiskers.  The Remington model adds the trimmer which, because of its location, allows you to use it while shaving to cut the long whiskers while the foils take care of the shorter whiskers.  The Philishave/Norelco Quadra Action has the holes in the middle third of the shaving surface for the shorter whiskers (which has a thinner surface than the rest of the shaving area).  The familiar slots are used on the remaining two-thirds of the shaving surface.  The Quadra Action's waterproof construction allows for easy cleaning.  I've had very good luck with my Quadra Action and Norelco in the USA (along with other participating Philips DAP units in other countries--contact the Philips DAP unit in your country to make sure) have a no-risk money back trial offer to get you to try the shaver to see if you like it.  So right now, I would give the edge to the Philishave/Norelco Quadra Action shaver based on your situation.  I hope this helps.

From: "Joseph S Sherman" <jssherm@optonline.net>

Date: Friday, December 22, 2000 2:32 PM

Hello. Thanks for your great page. I am looking for a new foil shaver for the holidays, and have decided on the Panasonic. But I can't decide between the ES883 and the ES8003. The differences I can find are the ES883 has a floating "Triple Head Shaving System with Intercept Cutter and Lift Strips" while the ES8003 has a "3-Dimension Floating Triple Blade System" with no mention of lift strips.

What I would like to know is: Does the ES8003 have lift strips? Do they make much of a difference? What is the difference between the ES883 floating triple heads and the ES8003 3-D floating triple blades? For similar price, would you recommend one over the other?

thanks.

Joseph Sherman

jssherm@optonline.net

Thanks for your question, Joesph.  When I was finally able to locate a closeup photo of an ES8003 shaver on one of the shaver shop web site, I noticed that there were no lift strips on the edge of the shaver.  The lift strips are intended to lift up either flat or curly whiskers before cutting.  Because the current Survey Page questions ask favourite and least favourite shavers broken down by product line, I used that as my guide as to which is better.  Of the 13 people who mentioned a Panasonic shaver as their favourite, nine of them or 69% of responses preferred an 8000 series shaver while only one preferred an 800 series shaver.  Of the nine people who had their worst experience with a Panasonic shaver, five of those hated the 8000 series and no one hated an 8000 series shaver.  I could see no obvious difference between the shaving action of the two product lines.  From all those people who liked the 8000 series, that would be the slight choice in my book if there was no price difference.  I hope this helps.

From: Chris & Linda Cable

Date: Thursday, December 21, 2000 8:18 PM

I need to replace those little foam washer-like things in my Norelco shaver. The closest authorized repair shop is a long, inconvenient drive away, and they won't ship. Is there any way to order (by mail, phone, or internet) so that they can be shipped to my house?

Chris Cable

Thanks for your question, Chris.  As I pick up old Philishave/Norelco shavers, I've noticed that some of them need the same foam washers that you describe.  My local shaver repair shop, I believe, gets them from a third party shaver parts manufacturer I have a link to.  It's Crestwood Appliance/All Appliance Parts which I have a link to in my list of shaver shops on line.  Their web site includes a list of shaver repair shops they supply parts to.  Check which shops are convenient to you and ask if they ship parts by mail.  Better yet, you can inquire with All Appliance Parts to find out if they can either send you the parts directly or tell you which  of their dealers handle mail orders.  I hope this helps.

From: Ralph Morales

Date: Thursday, December 21, 2000 12:46 PM

Mr. Steel Beard,

First of all great web site. I was wondering if you could recommend a product that could help reduce skin irritation around the neck. I use the Norelco 5861 XL. It's a great shaver but my neck is always irritated after shaving. If you recommend something it would be greatly appreciated. Thanks

Ralph Morales

Systems Engineer

Nortel Networks Global Customer Care Services

MoralesR@NortelNetworks.com

Thanks for your question, Ralph.  I've been suggesting a pre-shave powder stick, such as the Remington FaceSaver, which helps the shaver glide better on your skin so that you can shaver with fewer strokes and the fewer strokes you make when shaving, the less irritation.  I hope this helps.

From: <Wmincrk@aol.com>

Date: Wednesday, December 20, 2000 9:28 PM

Gary,

I am going to purchase a electric razor for my 2 teenage boys ( both just starting to shave ) neither one has a thick beard. Which type would you recommend ? price is not a issue.Things I am concerned about is 1) reliability 2) ease of use 3) is rotary type more forgiving if they were to press to hard 4) is one ( foil or rotary) more suited for acne problems are sensitive skin. I am leaning towards the Norelco Quadra 6826XL.

Your thoughts please and Merry Xmas.

Ron

Thanks for your question, Ron.  This question is a hard one to answer because a foil shaver is good for one person while a rotary is better suited to a different person.  You may already know that I've used a rotary since I was a teenager so I can't be that objective.  The Quadra Action shaver you pointed out is a good choice because it adjusts to the contours of the face in a three-dimensional manner and this waterproof shaver is easy to clean (the non-waterproof rotary shavers are notoriously tedious to clean).  In thinking this matter over, knowing that teenagers would be using the shaver, I would think they could be rough in handling the shaver.  So I would not recommend foil shavers of which the ultrathin foil can easily be damaged (and damaged foils must be replaced before using the shaver again).  I hope this helps.

From: "Nicholas Mecredy" <nicholas.mecredy@wolmail.nl>

Date: Tuesday, December 19, 2000 10:33 AM

This is just a quick note to give my experiences with the Philishave Reflex Action HQ 5806 and Quadra Action HQ 6830.

At the end of Novermber I shaved for the first time in 26 years (the beard was going rather white at the edges) and initially used a wet razor, but that was a rather bloody affair.

I then purchased a Philishave Reflex Action HQ 5806, since the last shaver I had (long ago) was also a Philishave. This model seemed to be quite complete but it didn't give as smooth a shave as the wet razor (though a lot less blood).

Having surfed around for information I came across your site with reviews and the mention of the Philips money back offer. I checked the offer was still valid in Holland, took your advice, bought the Quadra and sent the Reflex back.

...and the shave is now much smoother !

My advice is thus to pay the extra (about 30% more here) and buy the Quadra rather than the Reflex - it is well worth it, and when the cost is spread over a few years shaving fades into insignifigance.

Keep up the good work with your Web site !

Regards, Nicholas

--------------------------------------------------

Nicholas Mecredy

Holland

Thanks for giving your experience with the Philishave Quadra Action and Reflex Action shavers, Nicholas.

From: "Peter Williams" <muerlin@hotmail.com>

Date: Tuesday, December 19, 2000 6:26 AM

TRUE STEEL BEARD? - Interesting how the packages tell us that they work wonders on even the toughest beards. Well, they don't. I used a Remingtion M2820 for a couple years and it was okay. It still took too long to get a closer shave. I recently bought the Norelco Quadra Action, Braun Syncro, Panasonic Linear ES8066K, Remington TCT Triple foil, and finally the Wahl Custom Shave 5000. I was excited about the Wahl one with it's 3 custom foils for beard type. Well, even the super close foil still took too long and wasn't that close. I had to change to the sensitive foil to be able to dig into my beard/face a bit more after first gently using the super close one. At the advice of this forum I tried the Face Saver powder over a clean, dry face and it does make a difference. The powder does make the razor more work to clean afterwards though.

The Quadra irritated my neck the most and all around my beard I had to dig in with that thing to get close at all. The others I didn't care for much either. It's just down to the Panasonic or Wahl for me. The Wahl is noisier and vibrates a lot but the foils and blades are MUCH cheaper than all other brands. The Panasonic is quiet, more comfotable, wet/dry so you can clean it easily and claims more life out of the foil/blade than most shavers. I think I will stay with the Panasonic since I must use the face powder too but for someone else the Wahl may be best. I noticed the Wahl system is not mentioned much at all in this forum.

It would be nice if they made a shaver ONLY for really tough beards somehow....and to have it actually work.

Thanks for telling your experience with several different shavers, Peter.  My beard is more of a medium density based on how my goatee feels so I hope someone with a very tough beard can mention his favorite shaver.

From: "Steve Guillaudeu" <steveguil@yahoo.com>

Date: Saturday, December 16, 2000 10:53 PM

Mr. Steel Beard,

I am looking for a good electric to give my father for Christmas. What is the best shaver on the market this season for under $60?

Thanks

Thanks for your question, Steve.  That was a tough one to find out.  The ongoing current Survey Page results for December as well as my own window shopping has me suggesting for your price range a Remington MicroScreen 3 shaver.  If the price is low enough, you may wish to spring for their new MicroScreen 3 TCT model.  I hope this helps.

From: <robert@elastica.com>

Date: Friday, December 15, 2000 11:53 PM

Yesterday I just bought a quadra action 6885 model Last night I used Boots Preelectric shave before trying it out and couldn't help buyt feel a stinging sensation aftwaredsd and some redness. I'm in thailand right now so they could be explained by the fact that my skin is quite dry at the moment.

What I'd like to know if how quadra action users prepare for the shave.

I've just moved from using Mach 3 blades. I remember a long time ago when I used my first electric razor there was this shaver stick thing you could buy that applied talc to the area before the shave. Does this exist today?

so how can I better prepare for the shave. Also, how long after application should you wait to shave after using pre-electric shave?

Plus on my unit after it says fully charged the LCD reads 35 mins. Is that the same for other folks?

So far I've been quite happy with the shave but it's early days yet and you cannot return anything you buy in Thailand.

Cheers.

Thanks for your question.  Since my rechargeable shaver does not have a numeric indicator (just a charge level gauge), I can only say from how long my shaver takes to charge up based on approximate times.  But what you're saying is rather close.  Mine takes a little longer, but it does take less than an hour.  With my Philishave Quadra Action shaver, I start with a dry face.  If humid weather forces me to use a preshave, I use a powder stick before shaving.  I use the shaver almost immediately after applying the powder stick.  The waterproof construction of this shaver makes cleaning the shaver a breeze even with all the powder inside the shaver.  The powder stick I use is marketed in North America by Remington and is called the FaceSaver.  Because it's made in Switzerland, other companies may market it under different names. I wonder if Remington distributes shavers and other products in Thailand.  They do have a marketing organisation in Australia so you may wish to E-mail Remington's Australian unit asking about availability of the FaceSaver powder stick in your area.  You can reach them through the Remington link I maintain.  I hope this helps.

From: "Andrew Levitt"

Date: Friday, December 15, 2000 12:02 PM

Gary,

Since I notice from your photograph that you have a goatee, I thought you might be able to answer this question. I am growing a beard, and plan to use my electric shaver (Remington Microscreen 2) to shave the neck and perhaps a small part of the cheeks. Do you have any suggestions for using an electric shaver around facial hair without accidentally damaging the beard? I will use a beard trimmer on the beard itself.

Thanks.

Thanks for your question, Andrew.  I'm resigned to having to use my beard trimmer to reshape my goatee twice a month as I have not found a way to shave around my goatee without my beard growing in physical size over time.  The same principle applies to sideburn creep as the sideburns grow longer unless the trimmer is used to keep the sideburns from growing too long. You can tell if you're shaving too close to the beard when you feel the shaver pulling on the edge of the beard.  I hope this helps.

From: "Jon Nelson" <jonmnelson@mediaone.net>

Date: Thursday, December 14, 2000 9:52 PM

I am switching from blades to an electric and purchased a refurbished Grundig 8875. I've only used it four days and have had no irritation. It's very well built and has exceptional clippers. The shave feels very close -- as close as my Mach III -- after I finish shaving, but by early afternoon I have more stubble than I ever had with a blade.

My question is: Is this part of the adjustment process, or do electric shavers leave you with stubble late in the day? I'd be interested to know what experiences others have had in switching from blades.

By the way, thank you for a great Web site!

Jon

You're welcome, Jon and thanks for your note.  Since I have never used a blade razor, only electric shavers, I cannot tell you from personal experience my feelings about 'late afternoon stubble'.  There are still several die-hard blade razor users who believe that electric shavers cannot shave as close.  But then, it's much more convenient to use an electric shaver at work in the afternoon to take care of any touch-ups which need to be done.  If anyone has any personal experience regarding blade razors vs. electric shavers and late afternoon stubble, please let us know.

From: "David or Cindy Braak" <dbraak@pathwaynet.com>

Date: Wednesday, December 13, 2000 7:02 AM

I have been using a Norelco 815RX the last several years and am concerned it is so loud I may be experiencing hearing loss from it. Have you ever heard of such a thing? Is there something I could be doing to reduce the noise? If not, could you recommend a shaver that is quieter?

Losing my hearing at age 40...

David

Thanks for your note, David.  The quietest shaver I've come across is the one I use now which is a Philishave HQ6425 Quadra Action shaver.  I'm sure that the Norelco Quadra Action shavers are just as quiet.  It's even quieter than the rechargeable Philishave Reflex Action shaver I've been using when on the go.  I find that the shaving action is noisier than the shaver itself with the Quadra Action I have.  I hope this helps.

From: "Improvius" <improvius@yahoo.com>

Date: Monday, December 11, 2000 12:15 PM

Just to confirm suspicions - I have an 8086 Panasonic linear shaver, and while it gave me excpetional shaves for the first 9 or so months of its life, it has over the last couple of months become significantly slower and louder. I, too, have very coarse facial hair, which may contribute to the issue. In any case, it now takes me 3-4 times as long to shave with this razor than it did originally. I will see if I can obtain warranty work. But it seems that for anyone who wishes to purchase one of these shavers, an extended warranty is a must-have.

-Mike

Yes, I would agree concerning the Panasonic shavers that an extended warranty is a good idea with battery life being one issue I have.  Thanks for your opinion, Mike.

From: "Stuart" <stuart@stu.org.uk>

Date: Sunday, December 10, 2000 10:06 AM

Hi, I have had three Quadra Action Philishaves. Each died on me after a few months use. I thought I was just unlucky, but I admit I was using a small about of shaving lotion (King Of Shaves Kinexium), and whilst these shavers are suppose to be waterproof, I guess they are not proper wet/dry shavers. It's a shame, as it was the best shaver I have ever used. Anyway, I swapped the last shaver for the Philishave Coolskin. It's not very comfortable. The Quadra Action is far superior. Do you (or anyone else) know if the heads are interchangeable? I wondered if I could purchase a replacement Quadra blade/foil and put it on my Coolskin.

Regards,

Stuart

Thanks for your question, Stuart.  I can tell you from personal experience that the head assemblies of the Philishave/Norelco Quadra Action shavers and the Philishave Cool Skin/Norelco Advantage shavers are NOT interchangeable.  The heads are specifically designed so they only fit onto the shavers they are intended for.

From: "irving schwartz" <iconx@pacbell.net>

Date: Saturday, December 09, 2000 6:52 PM

Dear Gary.

My two cents worth:

The best shave I get now is using a Linear wet dry--and I use it wet-in the shower, with shaving lather.

Minimum friction means for me minimum irritation vs. a dry shave. Foil or rotary, no difference. It 's the comfort that coubts for me.

Closeness? Nothing beats a blade razor, against the grain- but the blood is not worth the closeness. I'll take a little stubble and rest happy. For me, then, WET is the answer, not type or hype or make or cost.

Irving

Thanks for posting your opinion, Irving.

From: "Frank Knapik" <fknapik@MAIL.NYSED.GOV>

Sent: Thursday, December 07, 2000 2:24 PM

Hello. A friend of mine came back from visiting England. She brought back a product called "Witch Doctor Gel". I believe it is made in England. It is the best stuff I have ever used for irritation caused by shaving. I live in New York State and cannot find it anywhere. Can anyone advise of store that would ship this great stuff to me? Thank you.

Francis Knapik

Thanks for your inquiry, Francis.  A quick look through the search engines showed that Witch Doctor Gel is available in Great Britain and in Australia.  It's witch hazel combined with skin conditioners made into a gel.  I found details at http://store2.europe.yahoo.com/vitago-uk/v440053004.html It's made by E.C. DeWitt. While the URL I mentioned is ,unfortunately, not accepting any orders, I hope there is either a British or Australian on line store which handles it that accepts overseas orders.  I found no URL for E. C. DeWitt.  I hope this helps.

From: "Richard Holroyd" <holroyd@bnl.gov>

Sent: Thursday, December 07, 2000 9:35 AM

I have a National brand razor with only Japanese script on it and a bottle of liquid soap, that I use on the shaver, also with Japanese script. The soap has run out and I am wondering if it, or something similar, is available in the US. I live on Long Island.

Dick

Thanks for your inquiry, Dick.  If the National razor is what I'm thinking it is, that's from Matsushita which markets shavers under the Panasonic name in these parts.  If you know the model of the shaver, maybe someone at Panasonic Personal Care USA can help out as to which liquid soap to use which is available in the USA.  Otherwise, I would go to the National/Panasonic global URL at http://www.panasonic.co.jp/global/index.html  which gives the URL of the various Panasonic/National URLs world wide.  I'd try the Asian URLs in English such as Singapore as I couldn't figure out the Japanese web site which, of course, is in Japanese and has very few visuals or English words to help me out.  I hope someone at National/Panasonic personal care world wide can help you out in this case.

From: <FLBIGGLES@aol.com>

Date: Monday, December 04, 2000 11:44 PM

I've been visiting your page for a couple of years now. It's great! A wealth of information, and it's nice to know there are other people out there who like electric shavers as much as I do.

I've had my eye on the Micro Action shaver - HQ 487 on the Philishave website for some time now. I like the idea of an adjustable Micro Action shaver with two heads. Especially since the three head adjustable line has been discontinued by Philips. Besides, it's compact and it'll fit in my travel kit.

I've got a relative in the Netherlands that might be able to pick one up for me. The only problem should be the cord. I've got a couple of cords for the three headed micro action shavers here in the US. I wonder if they will fit the two-headed model? What do you think?

I wish we had the selection of razors Philips offers in Europe in the US!

Keep up the good work. You run an exceptional page!

Paul--

Thanks for your note, Paul.  I believe your existing power cords will fit the Philishave HQ487 you're wondering about.  Since this shaver automatically adjusts to the local voltage, you'll be able to use it immediately.  I'm glad the info found through the Electric Shaver Page was helpful to you.

From: jasslyn

Date: Sunday, December 03, 2000 10:28 PM

Recently I have went to a certain well-known electrical store to enquire which shaver is suitable for me. In Singapore (where I live in), the popular shavers are Braun, Philips and National. The promoters have explained to me the features and usage of the shavers and the differences between other shavers. I am still confuse over which brand of shaver to purchase. Therefore it is better to seek your advise before doing the right move. (I am more interested in Quadra and Syncro)

Firstly, I would like to know the speed of Quadra, how many rpm is it. I have little beard but have a sensitive skin, the promoter suggested to me to use a Syncro because the speed is faster therefore it reduces the chance of skin irritation and burning sensation of the skin. Is it true?

Secondly, the foil is thin and will ensure a closer shave as the distance from the beard and the shaver is very close. But I heard that it wears out quite fast.

Thirdly, is Quadra fully water-proof because the shaver is not fully concealed as it can be used with a cord. I was told that I can use the shaver during shower and it is a wet/dry shaver but the promoter told me that it was a dry shaver.

Lastly, Quadra has holes and slots which are meant for longer hairs and short stubbles. But Synchro has a triple cutter.

I am so confuse! I like the design of Quadra but it seems like Synchro is a better buy. Can you please give me some idea? I would plan to buy it before Christmas.

Thanks

Paul

Thanks for your questions, Paul.  I wish I knew the speed of the Quadra Action shavers, I could not find any info on the cutter speed.  The Syncro does look revolutionary in both the shaving surface and the cleaning regimen.  I'm starting to read more good things about the Braun Syncro.  Yes, foil shavers do require more frequent replacement of the shaving surface as opposed to rotary shavers.  As to why the Quadra Action is a waterproof shaver but NOT a wet/dry shaver, I was told that this shaver works better when used dry.  If you look further down, a posting dated November 29 does compare a Philishave/Norelco Quadra Action shaver with a Braun Syncro shaver and he prefers the Syncro.  I hope this helps and thanks again.

From: "Michael Abernethy" <mabernet@email.unc.edu>

Date:  Sunday, December 03, 2000 7:48 AM

I am a college student, and am looking into buying an electric shaver to cut down on the time it takes to get ready in the mornings. I have shaved with a blade for the last 5 years or so (I currently alternate between the Gillette Mach 3 and Sensor Excel), and I am wondering if you could recommend a particular model for me. I shave everyday, but do not have a particularly heavy beard or thick whiskers, but I do like to keep sideburns and a goatee. The skin on my face is not overly sensitive, but does have a tendency to dry out in the winter. My main concern about purchasing an electric is that the hair on my neck and jaw line grows in different directions than the hair on my face and chin. This has always made for painful and difficult shaving with a blade, but the one time I tried my father's rotary electric in high school, it was the most painful experience ever! It ripped the hair out of my neck rather than cut it, and I was left with terrible rashes and an un-even shave.

I have been looking at the Norelco Advantage, but I am not sure about it... I don't think I want to shave in the shower everyday, even if the lotion feels good. And, I am simple bewildered by the differences in the foil razors and whether they will do a good job or not. If you could please give me some advice on brands, models, and possible techniques of shaving with an electric, I would be very grateful.

Thank you,

Michael A.

Thanks for your note, Michael.  I hope you've been reading the survey page results from past months, including last month's brand preferences and this month's brand preference broken down by product lines.  The latest thing in foil shavers I noticed is that they add slotted heads to straighten whiskers before cutting.  The Remington MicroScreen 3 TCT is one example.  With my current shaver, the Philishave (Norelco) Quadra Action, I've learned it's better to use both circular and back and forth motions for more effective shaving.  Shaving with foil shavers typically would be with a back and forth motion.  For a more comfortable shave, don't press down too heavily while shaving.  I hope that others can provide their own opinions here as well.  I hope this helps.

From: "davidw" <davidw@erols.com>

Date: Saturday, December 02, 2000 1:51 AM

Please help!! I have been shaving for a while now, and I have a problem.  My skin is so sensitive that I hate to shave. No matter what method I try, it always irritates my face. I have tried electric razors, manual razors, and even tried one lazer treatment, all to no avail. I am searching for a good alternative, an absolute "best-buy" razor either electric or manual, or something else I can do to get rid of this problem.

It would seem to me that a razor that left just a small bit of stubble above the surface of the skin would be ideal for me as I have very light colored skin and if the razor did not actually touch the skin, it wouldn't irritate it.

Can anyone help??

Thanks for your inquiry.  If you don't mind stubble, have you thought about a beard trimmer?  The adjustment on mine goes down to 1.5mm and up to 7mm.  So if you like stubble that's one and a half millimeters long, that's the solution.  I hope this helps.

From: janase

To: gflinn@iavbbs.com

Date: Wednesday, November 29, 2000 8:23 PM

Your site is excellent and very informative, especially this forum. I thought that I would offer some observations about the Norelco 6886 XL and the Braun Syncro 7570. First some background. I am a hairy person (brown hair) and have what I consider a moderately heavy beard that I could shave twice a day. I sun burn easily but do not have sensitive facial skin. I have used blade razors (including an occasional straight razor) for about 35 years. About 2 years ago (1998) I noticed that I was not getting a close shave in certain areas (particularly around and below the corners of my mouth) without cutting myself. Maybe that's a result of aging skin/whiskers. Average shave time was 7-10 minutes.

In November 1999 I decided to go electric since the local Costco offered a good price on a Norelco 6886 XL. The shaver gave what I would consider a fair shave but I found myself going over areas more than once (sideburns, cheekbones, chin area). I was surprised when I read elsewhere that an electric shave should not last more than 5 minutes since mine were longer although not more than my shortest blade times. Eventually I used a pre-shave (Williams) that I think improved the quality of the shave. I also used a spray lube on the cutters. I got my shaving time down to about 5 minutes but always felt as if I were trying to beat the clock. The shaver is ergonomically excellent, styled to fit the hand and it rinses clean under the tap-very convenient and quick/low maintenance.

After a year of use, I decided to try a foil shaver and settled on a Braun. I decided to go for all the bells and whistles and bought the 7570 Syncro. SASCO in Edmonton, Alberta offered the best price I could find because their price was the lowest plus the $US/Canada exchange rate was really favorable (note that credit card companies will add 2-3% to your bill as a currency exchange charge). The only drawback of that transaction was UPS shipping time which took 10 days to New Jersey. That would really eat into your money back trial time if you're adapting from a blade razor. Note also that SASCO required a signature upon delivery.

I have not yet used the Syncro for a month but offer these observations. I have a large hand but find that holding the shaver is occasionally awkward. The Clean & Charge unit takes up counter space (about a 7 inch base x 10 inches high) which could be a drawback to some users, plus it needs a convenient electric outlet. Nonetheless, I was blown away by the quality of the shave. Not only is the shave closer, but it appears to last longer (i.e., whiskers don't grow out as fast). Comparatively speaking, I would rate the Syncro shave far superior to the rotary-there's a magnitude of difference. As well, the speed of shave is noticeably shorter: I'm at about 4 minutes (plus) without feeling rushed. Those comments are without using a preshave--Braun does not recommend using a preshave. Subsequently I used the preshave and I think it even further improves the quality of the shave.

Obviously, the efficacy of a foil or rotary shaver depends on skin type, beard toughness and other factors. While I found the rotary shave acceptable, I was never completely satisfied with it. I'm so satisfied with the Syncro that I am not concerned whether a different make foil shaver would give an even better shave.

Jim Nason

Thanks for your kind words and your objective comparison between a Philishave/Norelco Quadra Action shaver and a Braun Syncro shaver.

From: jameswalthall

Date: Monday, November 27, 2000 5:40 PM

Dear Sir,

I recently contacted you, and find myself in need of your expert advice yet again.

Do I purchase the Panasonic Linear ES 8003 or the ES 8068 ?

Regards

James Walthall

Thanks for the new question, James.  My quick search led me to the Panasonic Canada web site and these separate URLs: http://www.panasonic.ca/products/shavers/ES8003.htm    and     http://www.panasonic.ca/products/shavers/ES8068.htm   which I loaded onto separate browser windows and viewed them side by side.  The obvious differences I saw between them were that the ES8003 mentions that it has a "3-Dimension Floating Triple Blade System" while the ES8068 mentions that it has a "Triple Blade with Independently Floating System".  The photos show that the ES8068 has a slightly better ergonomic shape.  So I don't see any big differences between these two models.  So I would pick the one with the lower price.  I hope this helps.

From: Eric Schweda

Date: Sunday, November 26, 2000 1:27 PM

HI,

I was doing a search for either a clipper or trimmer for a friend of mine who cuts hair (My hair as well). Last time she cut my hair she was having problems with her device that she uses for the back of my head and to remove my sideburns. I thought it would be a good idea to get her a new one for Christmas. The problem I have encountered as that there are "clippers" and "trimmers" sold. Which one do I want? It seems it is used primarily for the back of the neck and the sides.

Which one would you recommend? I have seen on a beauty supply website the brands "Andis", Oster", and "Wahl". Which of these 3 are best? Unless you have a better idea of course.

Thank You.

Eric Schweda

Thanks for your question, Eric.  For the purpose of your question, I'll define an electric clipper as a usually corded appliance used to cut hair.  It's physically larger than an electric trimmer.  An electric trimmer is usually cordless and is designed to trim beards and sideburns.  Because there is more detail in cutting and trimming hair, hair clippers are more rugged than beard trimmers.  I'm familiar with the Oster and Wahl hair clippers and I still have a Wahl hair clipper myself.  Beard clippers are intended to be used by the user and hair clippers are not intended to be self applied (I tried but regretted the end result).  Well at least hair grows.  ;)  I tend to favor Wahl when it comes to hair clippers.  But I have seen cordless hair trimmers on the marketplace lately, mainly the Philishave and Norelco brands from Philips.  I use a Philips beard trimmer myself.  In a nutshell, I would think that hair clippers would be best to trim the back of your neck.  If anyone else has any ideas, please let us know.  I hope this helps.

From: <kahrs@rci.rutgers.edu>

Date: Friday, November 24, 2000 4:41 PM

I have no desire to come close to any razor but I have to admit, my beard does look nicer when it is trimmed. I found your web page a while back and thought I would return the favor.

A few years back my wife bought me the Norelco "Man Care" MC22 beard trimmer. I didn't like it: it couldn't go against the grain and couldn't get very close.

So this year, after being fed up, I decided to look again. Now Norelco offered the T7500. After reading positive comments, I decided to get one (from electricshaver.com). I have to report it is terrific. First, it is small and nicely packaged. Second, it can get VERY CLOSE, almost as close as a shave [yuck] Third, it can go against the grain and Fourth, you don't need to keep changing batteries. And it's even easy to clean.

In short, I think the T7500 is a great product. And by the way, electricshaver.com was very competent: easy internet ordering and swift shipping.

My best wishes to you beard shavers out there (even though I'll never be one, NEVER).

Thanks for your comments favoring the Norelco T7500 trimmer which is sold outside the USA as the Philishave HQ-T388.  I still use an older model Philips beard trimmer which I've had for five years, the Definition 80 which was sold in the USA as the Norelco Maverick.  The more current models are more ergonomic than the one I have (of which I needed to replace the cutter assembly a couple of years ago after it broke).  I'll replace that beard trimmer with a current Philishave model when the battery gives out on my trimmer, but I don't know when this will happen.  Thanks again for your comments.

From: "boutinfamily" <boutinfamily@home.com>

Date: Friday, November 24, 2000 9:47 AM

Hi I was wondering what you would recommend for a guy just starting to shave. My son is 14 and though the whiskers on his chin are rough the ones on his neck and cheeks are still fairly soft, I guess this is in comparison with his Dads. Both his Dad and brother have heavy beards and must shave aleast once a day..but probably should be twice..so i am looking for something that will take him from this stage ( say every other day) to regular shaving. He also has some acne on the chin. I read in the other questions/comments here that people have tried razors and returned them??

Did i read that wrong? thanks for the informative site

Sue

Thanks for your question, Sue.  For a person with acne, an electric shaver is a necessity.  There is nothing worse than cutting open a pimple with a razor (which I define as a blade razor) while shaving.  With the money-back trial offers out there, this allows for more trial and error when it comes to finding the best electric shaver.  You may already know that I'm a rotary shaver person (I use a low-end model Philishave Quadra Action shaver myself which is the Philishave/Norelco high-end product line), but foil shavers have their allies with the Panasonic Linear line the best of the bunch currently.  But for a teenager starting out, I would suggest a moderately-priced middle of the line model, if not a low end model in their top of the line.  I've tried some low-end product line models of which I was not happy with the end result.  I'm sure others have their opinions so if someone does, please let us know.  I hope this helps.

From: StarbucksCase

Date: Friday, November 24, 2000 12:07 AM

Hi,

I would like to know if anyone has had experiences with the new Braun Syncro System Series and how does it match up with the Norelco Quadra Action..

Alex

Thanks for your question, Alex.  I haven't had that many comments on the Braun Syncro to give an opinion yet and the ones I've received so far have been mixed.  Because the Philishave/Norelco Quadra Action series has been around for more than a year and I have one myself, I can give a favorable opinion on this model.  But I have not received a head to head opinion yet on these two competing top product lines.  If anyone has made a side-by-side comparison of these two shavers, please let us know.

From: ProRec1

Date: Tuesday, November 21, 2000 9:58 PM

Hi,

I have been reading the comments on your forum for a few weeks in an attempt to find the best razor to purchase. I have been using a Norelco razor for the last 15 years or so and it finally conked out. It was a good razor but it certainly isn't anywhere near the performance of the newer razors. I have recently tried several new razors. The first was a Remington Microflex. I only paid $29.95 for it. It did an adequate job and I was impressed with it's ability to cut my whiskers. However it was very harsh on my skin even though my beard and skin are accustomed to a rotary razor. I did use your suggestion to use powder on my face prior to shaving and it helped immensely. I returned the Microflex to the store because it did not shave close enough and it was way too harsh.

I then tried a Panasonic Linear, Model ES8066X ($89.95). It is a very good razor. It shaves very close, even rivaling a blade. My skin is very smooth after shaving with the Linear. Very impressive. I have to say it takes a few shaves to get used to shaving with this razor but once you do it's marvelous to use.

I also tried the Norelco Quadra Action, Model 6826XL ($99.95). It produced a very comfortable shave and did not irritate my skin, yet compared to the Panasonic Linear it seemed like it was struggling. It seemed slow although very quiet. It is also quite comfortable to grip. The Quadra Action shave was decent but the Panasonic, to me anyway, is far superior. I tried and tried to get all the stubble off with the Norelco but could not. The Panasonic took it all off admirably. The only drawback with this model of Panasonic razor is the long charge time and it cannot be quick charged. Other than that it is a very fine razor.

Jeff

Thanks for your note giving your experience with different shavers, Jeff.

From: Irvin Krieger

Date: Tuesday, November 21, 2000 8:13 PM

Last May, you asked for suggestions of battery-operated portable shavers. I bought a Panasonic ES805 for $50 at Sharper Image, and like it very much for short trips or touch-ups. It runs for a week of good close shaves on two AA batteries. Its main drawback is that there is no trimmer.

Irvin M. Krieger

P.S.:  The Panasonic ES805 is only $34.95 at electricshaver.com

Thanks for letting us know, Irvin.

From: Victor Patalano of Skywell

Date: Tuesday, November 21, 2000 1:21 PM

Dear Sir;

I have a basic Norelco rotary razor model 3405LC. It is only 3 years old and the motor works great. It does irritates me a bit though. I am assuming that new blades would help a lot. Where can I get the best deal on them, and do the blade sharpening devices actually work?

Sincerely;

Vic Patalano

Thanks for your inquiry, Vic.  While you can use search engines to look up prices for the Philishave HQ3 Double Action heads or the Philishave/Norelco HQ4 Micro Action heads (which adds the microgroove) which both fit your shaver--to save time, I looked at my sponsored links.  The cheapest heads I found as I type this on November 22, 2000 is from Mercury Shaver Centre which has the HQ3 heads at $32.95 Canadian or around $21.37 US and the HQ4 heads at $36.95 Canadian or around $23.90 US.  Of course, shipping charges are additional and the exchange rates may vary.  I hope this helps in case you want to check out your favorite search engines using either Philishave HQ3 or Norelco HQ4 as the key words.  Norelco in the USA does not offer the replacement HQ3 heads.  Based on my experience, I do not recommend the shaver sharpeners for the Lift & Cut heads, which both the HQ3 and HQ4 heads are, as they can damage them.

From: jameswalthall

Date: Monday, November 20, 2000 4:27 PM

Dear Sir,

My Philips 900 Double Action razor finally gave up the ghost after 12 years of intermittent service. I decided to purchase the Philips Coolskin razor and persevered for about 6 weeks. Unfortunately I didn't fare to well and sustained terrible neck irritation, that on many occasions bled. Hence, the Coolskin had to be returned.

However, I am still very keen to use an electric shaver as it saves time for me. Is there any type/brand you would recommend after my failed attempt with the Coolskin.

By the way, a wonderful website, extremely informative.

Thanks for your note and your kind words.  I think that the Cool Skin includes the Nivea lotion dispenser for a reason.  I'm having very good luck with my Philishave Quadra Action shaver after nearly a month of use.  Just remember not to press the shaver too hard on your face whilst shaving.  Use of a pre-shave to make the shaver glide more easily will help.  I use a Remington powder stick when necessary.  I hope this helps.

From: "Ron Deitsch" <rdeitsch@hotmail.com>

Date: Wednesday, November 15, 2000 9:21 AM

I have always been a blade user but got tired of the nicks and cuts. Around 9 months agao I purchased a Braun 6550. I like shaving with the electric but I cannot get a close shave, especially by chin and neck. I have to keep going over and over my beard to get a good shave and never get a good shave on my chin or neck. I've tried electric pre shave products but they didn't help. I want to stay with an electric shaver. Do I have the wrong shaver? Do I need to go back to a blade(I hope not)? What do you find others with my problem have done. Thanks, this forum is the best thing I've seen in a long time.

Ron Deitsch

Thanks for your question, Ron.  You may have read about my acquisition of a Philishave (Norelco) Quadra Action shaver.  I like this shaver because the head assembly on this shaver adjust to the contours of your face in a three-dimensional manner.  This would help your chin.  Their Reflex Action line and the wet/dry Philishave Cool Skin and Norelco Advantage models adjust to your face in the same manner.  Rotary shavers in general (such as the Philishave/Norelco models) are better at shaving the neck area as opposed to foil shavers.  If other people can post their opinions about how their shaver can shave their chin and neck, please let us know.  I can't tell you about shaving my chin because of my beard but I hope others can help.  Thanks again.

From: "DON KRUGER" <don1318@hotmail.com>

Date: Tuesday, November 14, 2000 3:09 PM

Gary:

I have been trying several different shavers which I plan on reporting on shortly. But for now, I have a few questions, one is for you and two are for Rick Barrow (if he's still following this forum).

First, for you: One of the shavers I bought (and am keeping) is a Norelco 6885XL. Since it is a reconditioned shaver, it didn't come with a stand. I noticed you did obtain one and was hoping you could tell me where I might get one.

For Rick Barrow: Since you are having so many problems with Panasonic shavers, I wonder if it could be due to the batteries. One of your older emails said that you sometimes used a couple of shavers per session. My two questioned for you are: On average, how long do you use your shaver each day, (Panasonic assumes 3 minutes per shave; taking a lot longer might wear out the batteries sooner)? And secondly, do you follow Panasonic's advice about leaving the shaver plugged in all the time and not discharging it occasionally (which counter's all the other manufacturers' advice)?

Thanks for your time and hope to report on my shaving experience's shortly.

Don

You're welcome, Don and thanks for your note.  As for myself, I got the shaver stand separately from Mercury Shaver Centre (one of my sponsored links) at the same time I got my Philishave HQ6425 Quadra Action shaver from them.   You may be able to get the same stand from Norelco directly although their web site does not list one.  So I suggest contacting Norelco asking if you can get one from them.  I hope this helps and I also hope that Rick can answer your questions.

From: "Paul Miyashiro" <pmiyashiro@home.com>

Date: Tuesday, November 14, 2000 12:27 PM

Hi Gary,

Thanks for the very informative website. I have been a regular Norelco user and a few years ago upgraded from a Rotatract HP 1328/E to a refurbished 5885XL. Now that you have upgraded from a Reflex Action to the Quadra Action, have you noticed that it has given you a closer shave than the Reflex Action?

Thanks for your comments.

Regards,

Paul Miyashiro

You're welcome, Paul and thanks for your question.  My Philishave Quadra Action shaver does give me a closer shave, but I had to change my shaving habit to take advantage of the Quadra Action's unique heads.  The holes which make up the inner part of the shaving surface are on a thinner surface as opposed to the slots which make up the outer part of the shaving surface.  So I'm now using a combination of straight and circular motions.  Because the surface of the outer slots is thicker than the inner holes, I can't get as close a shave on the edges of my sideburns and beard which forces me to use my trimmer more.  This is not a complaint, through.  I love this shaver, especially when it comes to cleaning this shaver by rinsing it under the faucet which you cannot do with any other plug-in shaver.  Of course, you must unplug the cord from the shaver before rinsing.  I hope this helps and thanks again.

From: <tferry@attglobal.net>

Date: Saturday, November 11, 2000 4:23 PM

In reference to Adam's comments on moving from a Mach 3 to a Norelco Quadra shaver...I just purchased a Quadra (model 6865) about a month ago after using the Mach 3 for over a year. I am very happy with it and find that it shaves as close as the Mach 3. Like you I am most concerned with the closeness of the shave, and the Quadra seems to do the trick. I have sensitive skin and every time I would shave with the Mach 3 I would get little blood spots all over and so had to shave right before a shower. I can now shave on my way out the door. Plus, being able to just rinse it clean is great. It's hard to justify buying an expensive electric, but after that initial cost, replacement heads for the Quadra (around $30 once a year) are actually cheaper than Mach 3 blades over the course of a year. You don't have to get the high end with all the bells and whistles. Mine has a LED indicator that shows percentage of charge left. The lowest model doesn't even have that and it's not necessary. The Mach 3 to Quadra trade-off was worth it. I love mine.

T.W.F

I'm glad you do and thanks for your comments.  I personally went beyond what you were looking for in a low-end Quadra Action model as I wanted the non-rechargeable corded Quadra Action shaver as I do not desire another rechargeable shaver as I prefer using a corded shaver when I'm at home.  Because Norelco does not offer a corded Quadra Action shaver in the USA, I got the Philishave HQ6425 corded Quadra Action shaver from Canada.  I was able to obtain a wall-mounted stand designed for this shaver.  I had to modify it by cutting the front of the stand so I could grab the shaver to use it and put it back afterwards while the cord is still attached.  Thanks again for your comments.

From: "Mike Stanbro" <stanbro@easystreet.com>

Date: Sunday, November 05, 2000 1:40 PM

I noticed that many of the comments on the forum involve preparation of the beard prior to shaving. I, too, have tried many different approaches including Williams Lectric Shave, dry powder, shaving before showering, shaving after showering, etc. About 20 years ago, I found a procedure that works very well for me and wanted to share it with others.

My wife introduced me to the Neutrogena facial cleansing bar shortly after marriage. I was still fairly young at the time and the residuals of acne were still plaguing me. In addition to helping with acne, the Neutrogen bar really helped my electric shaving! I now keep a bar of it in the shower and use it to wash my face when I shower in the morning. After the shower, I wait until my face and beard are completely dry before I shave.

The Neutrogena bar contains glycerin which is very clean rinsing and leaves little residue. It leaves my skin and beard very dry and the electric razor glides smoothly over my face and the resulting shave is close with very little irritation. When I am forced to use ordinary bar soap, I find the difference rather remarkable!

Because the Neutrogena bar cleans so thoroughly, I recommend that you use a facial moisturizer after shaving to replenish your skin oils. You can find Neutrogena bars in the soap section of most grocery stores and pharmacies.

Mike Stanbro

Tigard, Oregon

Thanks for the tip, Mike.

From: "J.Peter Jorgensen" <jorgy@usa.net>

Date: Saturday, November 04, 2000 9:10 PM

I just wanted to point out to people looking for the Panasonic ES8003 (Sharper Image PA820), that you can sometimes find these new on Sharper Image's auction site http://auction.sharperimage.com/osauction.shtml

Yesterday I placed a bid on one of three that were up for auction and got it for $160. (Bidder #1 got his for $145 and bidder #3 got his for $160 like me.) Here's how the total cost worked out for me:

$160.00 - ES8003

15.95 - Shipping

-------

$175.95 - subtotal

-10.00 - Sharper Image/Discover Card discount

-------

$165.95 - Total ($84 less then the store price of $249.95!!!)

Bidder #1 if paying by Discover Card would have saved $99!!!

So, if you're looking for the ES8003, check out Sharper Image's auction site.

God Bless - Jorgy!

Thanks for the tip, Jorgy.

From: David Gindler

Date: Thursday, November 02, 2000 2:19 PM

Hi Gary,

It still holds true that you can find almost anything on the internet. I was looking for opinions on electric razors and found the place!!! Great information.

I thought I would let you know that my favorite site, http://www.netmarket.com has super prices on shavers. I found the Braun Syncro 7546 for $114 and the Norelco 6885XL for $139. Non-member will be a bit higher, but anyone can join and get the first 3 months free. I have purchased from them before they were an internet site ( a BBS years ago ) and have always had great service. Check their http://www.resellerrating.com for more info. ( I don't work for them. I just like to share the info. )

Now, If I could just figure out which razor to buy. My old Norelco is shot, and my Braun clipper doesn't work anymore. I realize I could probably get them fixed, but they are both very old and I would like to find a good new technology razor.

Currently considering both models above. I like the idea that I can return the Norelco if I do not like it. This is tempting and will probably be what I end up with.

Thanks again for the effort.

Regards,

David G

Thanks for the note with your tips, David.  The Braun Syncro is their latest and greatest model and you may know my current personal preference for the Philishave/Norelco Quadra Action line of which the 6885XL is an example.  Both product lines have had men on this forum saying they either love it or hate it.  You can use the search feature on your browser to find the comments below.  The Survey Page questions from last March show opinions on each shaver companies' product line.  I'll probably repeat these questions for December's Survey Page.  I hope this helps and thanks again.

From: Adam

Date: Thursday, November 02, 2000 10:59 AM

Hi, I just had a question regarding Norelco's Quadra Action shavers. I was wondering how well their shave compares with that of a blade. I am currently using Gillette's Mach 3 and it porvides a very close shave but I am tired of the hassles of shaving with a blade. I would switch to an electric but I want to be sure that it will do a reasonable job as far as closeness is concerned. Any input would be much appreciated. Thanks.

Adam Powell

Thanks for your question, Adam.  Because I've never used a blade razor, I can't make a personal comparison.  But I've been using a Philishave HQ6425 Quadra Action shaver for over a week now and I'm spoiled.  It's the quietest Philishave/Norelco model I've come across as the noise I mainly hear is from the whiskers being sheared off.  The shave is pretty close and comfortable and my only complaint (a mild one at that) is I need to use the trimmer more for my sideburns and for reshaping my beard.  The heads follow the contours of my bald head (with the few hairs I use this shaver to shave off).  Last, but not least, is the easy cleaning under the faucet.  If there are any others who can make an objective comparison between a Gillette Mach 3 razor and a Philishave/Norelco Quadra Action electric shaver, please let us know.  I hope this helps, Adam.

From: <EHHackney@aol.com>

Date: Tuesday, October 31, 2000 9:52 AM

Mr. Steel Beard

I am once again considering an electric razor. I have worn a full beard for years, and plan on keeping it. I still have to shave, though, near my lips, under my chin, and in areas where my beard is thin - my upper cheeks and below my lower lip.

Is there a particular razor that you think would be best? I lean towards the Norelco. Cordless, charging from 12 volts, and water cleanup would be nice, but not mandatory.

Thanks for an interesting and informative forum.

Hack

Thanks for your question, Hack.  Although you think that 12 volt charging and water cleanup is nice, but not mandatory, any of the Philishave/Norelco Quadra Action rechargeable models would fit the bill.  They use an optional HQ6010 car cord adapter for the 12 volt charging.  I hope this helps.

From: "Chris Charlesworth" <chris.charlesworth@totalise.co.uk>

Date: Sunday, October 29, 2000 4:24 PM

Hi Gary,

Just an update on how things are going with the Philishave. I exchanged the 4856 for a 5806 and am much happier with it. I can't really tell if it works any better or if it's psychological, but I like the action of the heads and I have stopped suffering razor burn completely now after 6 weeks. Am now using a liquid pre shave to lubricate and haven't used my 3 blade wet shaver since I got the Philips.

Thanks again for a great site.

Chris Charlesworth

Huddersfield

UK

You're welcome, Chris and thanks for the update.

From: Solomon Myers

Date: Thursday, October 26, 2000 10:04 PM

Hi Gary.....just sending an update report on my use of the Norelco Quadra Action for all your readers.....I have a heavy curly beard and have been prone to ingrown hairs.....I reported after one week (posted Sept. 2 on your site) that I did not get a very close shave and had neck irritation.....I indicated I would use the razor for the total adjustment period because I liked the washability.

I now get a very close shave (closer than with any previous electrics--about as close as with a blade when shaving with the grain) with absolutely no irritation whatsoever! I had to experiment around a little and have a few comments about that....I tried Williams Lectric Shave as a pre-shave for one and a half weeks and it did not help at all and the alcohol in it annoyed me......I then tried shaving after waking but prior to washing my face for about a week and I got a better shave (recommended by Braun), but still not good enough....I then broke down and bought the Remington Powder pre-shave you recommended and have been using it and shaving about five minutes after getting out of the shower ever since.

That said, it took my beard approximately six full weeks to adjust to the Norelco Quadra Action. Longer than I expected, but well worth the wait. My shaving time is now about 3 to 5 minutes with excellent results, down from 8 to 10 minutes with mediocre results. I was almost ready to send the razor back for the refund, but am very glad I stuck it out. Keep up the good steel beard web work!

Solomon Myers

Thanks for the update, Solomon and I'll try to keep up the good work.  My own new (actually a refurbished) Philishave HQ6425 Quadra Action shaver has me spoiled big time.  I just cleaned it for the first time today and I won't miss having to make sure combs and cutters are matched when I clean this shaver!

From: "mitch deutsch" <mitch_deutsch@yahoo.com>

Date: Thursday, October 26, 2000 10:00 AM

Hello there, I have read thru some of the comments. But looking for more info. I use a Philips and Braun but can't get a close shave. I'm looking for a good pre-shave gel/foam. I use the Williams pre-shave liquid but don't like the smell. Is there something newer and maybe better now a days.

Looking for a closer shave!

Mitch

mitch_deutsch@yahoo.com

Thanks for your question, Mitch.  You may have read that I use a Remington powder stick as a pre-shave, but I decided to take a quick look through drugstore.com to see if there is an unscented pre-shave because you don't like the scent of the pre-shave you're using.  I found an unscented Williams Lectric Shave available which I found at http://www.drugstore.com/products/prod.asp?pid=15309&catid=9363    which I hope helps and I also hope that it's available in your area.

From: "Norman Haigh" <haighn@us.ibm.com>

Date: Sunday, October 22, 2000 5:14 PM

Mr.Steel Beard,

I have a Braun system 1-2-3 rechargeable ci 3525 shaver that is about 5-7 years old and has seen only intermittent use during this period. During the periods of inactivity I stored the shaver in the fully discharged condition. Currently the shaver will not accept a charge (green charging indicator remains lit but never flashes) even after an hour of charging nor will it work off the cord. Any ideas? Thanks.

Sincerely,

Norm Haigh

IT Specialist

IBM CRM Alliance Services

4111 Northside Parkway, Suite H09L38, Atlanta, GA 30327

Phone: (404) 487-2175 or Tie Line 546-2175

Voicemail / Fax: (509) 461-1069

E-mail: haighn@us.ibm.com

Thanks for your note, Norm.  I would blame the rechargeable batteries which last an average of five years.  Because replacement batteries are now easier to obtain, and assuming you are handy with a soldering iron, I would try replacing the batteries.  Radio Shack is offering rechargeable batteries designed for shavers again.

From: <DGrayson2@aol.com>

Date: Sunday, October 22, 2000 3:48 PM

I have noticed a lack of info in your forum on Wahl razors. I happen to be a Wahl razor user. The Wahl 4000 is probably the best razor for people like me with a really heavy beard. By 2 in the afternoon everyday I have "5 o'clock shadow." While no electric razor works great on this kind of beard, the Wahl with the close or super close head works better than most. It's not as stylish or comfortable as some of the newer razors out there by Braun or Norelco/Philips, but it works. I think this is because it has a much higher RPM than any other razor I've tried (with more vibration too unfortunately) and the closer screen does a better job of getting the thick hairs. The replacement screens and cutters tend to be a little cheaper priced than the others too when you can find them. One of your write-ins also mentioned a Wahl staining his face-I've never seen this problem. Thanks for the great Website.

You're welcome and thanks for mentioning your experience with your Wahl shaver.

From: <j.schiferli@philips.com>

Date: Friday, October 20, 2000 10:12 AM

Dear Gary,

Saw some discussion in September about the corrosion resistance of Philips/Norelco shaving heads and cutters. Only shaving heads and cutters of Quadra Action and Advantage/Cool Skin are made of corrosion resistant steel, which allows for rinsing under the tap.

The Quadra Action holes give more closeness because of the local thickness of the shaving heads has been reduced, which is not visible by the naked eye.

Regards, Jos Schiferli <j.schiferli@philips.com>

Thanks for the info, Mr. Schiferli.  Speaking of Quadra Action shavers, I've ordered a Philishave HQ6425 corded Quadra Action shaver from one of my sponsored links, Mercury Shaver Centre of Toronto.

POSTSCRIPT:  Posted October 24, 2000.  The shaver arrived today and it looks great.

From: "Robert A. Barr" <rbarr12@prodigy.net>

Date: Tuesday, October 17, 2000 7:49 PM

My father really likes his Norelco 900RX shaver, but the built-in Ni-Cad batteries are just about shot. I ordered a set through Radio Shack and the price was reasonable -- about $19 -- and soldering them in would be no challenge.

The problem is, I can't figure out what tool is required to remove the 4 screws from the back to gain access. It looks like tamper-resistant Torx, but none of mine fit.

I've tried about a thousand web pages and numerous search engines, and I can't find this tidbit of information. Could someone give me a hint?

Thanks!

I can be contacted at: rbarr12@prodigy.net

Thanks for your question, Robert.  Looking through the old service manuals yielded a clue.  The Torx screws listed are described as being 1.8 x 10 /T8.  I would advise going to a hardware store with an excellent selection of screwdrivers along with your shaver to see which Torx screwdriver will fit.  I hope this helps.

FOLLOW UP:  Robert has replied with the following note:   For reference, if this'll help at some future point, the tool that did the trick was at Sears. It's a Craftsman driver, and the part number is 41553. It's their 'Professional', T8x2.5.  And the razor now works like new.  Thanks!

From: "Tom Jacobson & Naomi Scher" <naotom@mindspring.com>

Date: Tuesday, October 17, 2000 9:38 AM

I am about to start shaving again after many years of life with a beard. What suggestions do you have to minimize the neck irritation I can expect following years without shaving? Can I expect less discomfort if I have the beard removed by a pro using a straight razor? Once I am back on the electric, it appears that there is no concensus pick for sensitive necks. You have recommended both wet-shaving and, more recently, slotted heads. I would appreciate any ideas on how to decide what would be best for my VERY sensitive neck. Also, any reason not to return to using my old (10yrs+) Norelco Rototract 950RX? It did an OK job, but it regularly bothered my neck. I would certainly buy any shaver which would give me pain-free shaving. Thank you!

Thanks for your note, Tom.  I hope your old Norelco 950RX has a closeness/comfort adjustment.  If it does, then it's worth trying out again.  First, make sure the heads are still in great shape.  Otherwise, a new set of Philishave/Norelco HQ4 heads would be needed.  Also check to see that it runs OK.  A shaver repair shop can lubricate and tune up the shaver if that is needed.  Above all, stay light to the touch and allow about three weeks to a month for your face to become fully accustomed to the new shaving method.  This applies to any electric shaver you may be considering.  Everyone who follows these posting know my personal preference for the Philishave/Norelco Reflex Action shaver, but I'm tempted to check out their Quadra Action shaver for myself.  There are also a lot of foil shaver users out there and they seem to prefer the Panasonic Linear shavers.  I hope this helps.

From: Bryan Crawford

Date: Monday, October 16, 2000 11:20 PM

I am surprised that I found this forum but I am also glad. I guess this is my last resort to find answers and suggestions. I have super sensitive skin, I guess. Every shaving method I use causes EXTREME irritation. I have recently purchased a Norelco Advantage shaver and I have had many problems. In the close shave category, it gets an A+++. In the irritation department, it gets an F- - -. I used it for the first time and it cut my neck so bad that my entire neck line was bleeding like crazy. I understand that I have to stick it out for three weeks but I have never had anything cut my skin this bad. I have been using a Microscreen 3 and it gets the job done on my cheeks but not on my neck. The Norelco Advantage shaved closer than I have ever felt but it cut the skin on my neck so bad and then it started to burn and my entire neck was red and bleeding for two days. I know this may be a rare case but can anyone tell me if they have had any similar cuts with this line of razors or any tips on how not to get them. I would really appreciate it.

Thank you,

Bryan

Thanks for your note, Bryan.  Cutting your face with an undamaged electric shaver is an extreme case, indeed.  I had experienced a little bleeding when I used a foil shaver, myself.  I hope you didn't press too hard while shaving as that increases the discomfort level.  If anyone has any advice to give in this matter, please let us know.  I hope this helps.

From: "Andrew Levitt"

Date: Monday, October 16, 2000 10:50 PM

Hi Gary,

An interesting thing happened to me. As you may recall from some of my earlier messages, I have tried a number of the more expensive electric shavers - Norelco Quadra Action, Panasonic Linear, Braun Flex Integral, Grundig Roltronic, Remington Intercept, and have been unhappy with all of them for one reason or another. Recently my uncle (who shaves with a 30-year old electric shaver, a Schick perhaps) gave me a Remington Microscreen 2, corded, that he kept as a spare. To my surprise, I like it better than the more "high-end" brands. I've only been using it for about 10 days, but so far it gives a decent shave without a lot of irritation. It just goes to show that expensive is not always the best. By the way, I have found it better to shave with a circular motion. I'll let you know if my experience changes.

Thanks for the update, Andrew.

From: Lisa Towers

Date: Monday, October 16, 2000 6:37 AM

Thanks for the wonderful service.

I am switching from a blade (Tracer). Years ago I used a Norelco butas not too happy with it. And of course everyone has their favoriteo I am having a hard time. (I understand you perfer Norelco.) As you mentioned, Consumer Reports has not evaluated electric razors!

One razor which interests me is a shaver which I used to see in catalogs but can't seem to find now. It was billed as the "austronaut razor" and a friend of mine said he used one in the marines and loved it. It has a zip cord which you yank to get the clipper blades rotating under the foil. No electricity! I'm kind of an eco-nut (Thats ecological not economical) so the idea appeals to me. But it is not so appealing that I will buy one if it doesn't give a good shave.

Do you have any info about this centrigugal shaver? I would love to hear whether it works well, how much it should cost, and (if it passes the previous tests) where I can buy one.

Thanks, again!

-Dave Miller

Thanks for your question, Dave.  This mechanical shaver I've seen in catalogues which sell 'green' products, friendly to the environment.  While a quick check shows no shavers listed, I've seen them occasionally on eBay.  I don't recall getting any input from anyone who has used this shaver so I do not have an opinion as to how well it works.  I hope this helps.

From: "Darren" <darreng@ihug.com.au>

Date: Saturday, October 14, 2000 9:22 PM

Great site Mr Steel Beard. Well Done.

I have a Braun 5550 that I bought in 1998 sometime. It needs a new battery but I don't know how to take thing apart.. I was told in Australia that it would cost me A$120 to replace the battery but I know I can buy the actual battery for A$15.

The socket where the cord plugs in appears to have a fitting that may use a proprietary tool to unscrew it. That's my guess so far. Please help.

Mr Stubble.

Thanks for your question.  What's the shape of the head of the screw?  While I don't have a Braun shaver to check the screw heads, I'm wondering if the recess is in the shape of a star.  If it is, then it's a Torx screw of which there are different types of Torx heads.  My suggestion is to go to a hardware store which has an excellent selection of screwdrivers with your shaver to see which screwdriver will fit onto the screws of your shaver.  I've seen another appliance with a split flat head of which I filed away the middle of the tip of a flat head screwdriver in order to dismantle the item.  I hope this helps.

From: <AJBPowell@aol.com>

Date: Friday, October 13, 2000 11:33 AM

Hello, my name is April Powell, i am trying/Desperatly to find a WaterProof Beard and Mustache Trimmer, can you help me???? Please!

My husband does not really like shavers, just the trimmers and He needs one that he can use to do his face in the shower. I have looked in stores for a WaterProof Trimmer but can't seem to find any, Please can you help?

April Powell Thankyou!

P.s. Tried Emailing the Other mail to ask Questions but it seems to not go through, Sorry!

Thanks for your question which came out OK, April.  Unfortunately, my search engines found no references to waterproof beard trimmers.  If anyone knows of any waterproof beard trimmers which are available (or will be available if anyone from a beard trimmer company is reading this), please let us know.

From: Alon R

Date: Friday, October 13, 2000 3:43 AM

Hello,

I am wondering if you can help me. I am looking for some advice and you seem to be the one with the expertise. I have been shaving for the last 11 years and have had nothing but problems. Since I can remember I have had sensitive skin. I have done anything and everything...including going to a dermatologist. I have even considered getting the hair on my face permanently laser removed. I suffer from very, very sensitive skin. I have tried washing my face with soap, shaving in the shower, using after shave, special creams, but nothing seems to work. I tend to get very bad razor bumps on my neck due to shaving. The only thing that I have not tried yet is a quality electric shaver. I was wondering if you had any suggestion as to which electric shaver would remedy my problem. To be honest, at this point, money is not a concern. If I can find an electric shaver that will give me a close shave without the irritation, then I am willing to spend the bucks. If you could get back to me I would appreciate it. Thank you. Alon

Thanks for your inquiry, Alon.  I would suggest a shaver which has slotted heads.  There used to be shavers available which has slotted heads and reciprocating cutters such as the type Remington offered for several years.  A Remington outlet store may have this discontinued shaver.  Of the widely available shavers, the closest thing currently available is a Braun InterFace which is a hybrid foil and slotted head shaver.  If anyone else reading this has a suggestion, please let us know.

From: "Jeff Smith" <SMITHJ@mail.utenn.edu>

Date: Wednesday, October 11, 2000 1:33 PM

I have recently entered the market for electric razors. I found this forum very useful. I have decided to purchase the Panasonic Linear 8068. I have been price looking and thought your readers might like to know I found the Panasonic at www.comfortliving.com for 134.95 with no shipping or handling charges. I looked at every web link in your forum and many other ones. I am a research fanatic. In addition to the Panasonic razor comfortliving.com has some very good prices on many, many other items as well. If anyone finds this razor anywhere else, any less expensive please let me know.

Thanks for letting us know, Jeff.  Just to let everyone know about what I'm keeping my eye out for, Mercury Shaver Centre at http://www.shavercentre.com has a factory refurbished corded Philishave Quadra Action HQ6425 shaver for $99.00 Canadian which is approximately $68.00 US plus shipping.  Repeating Jeff's request, if anyone else finds these shavers (either the Panasonic Linear 8068 or the Philishave Quadra Action HQ6425) at less expensive prices, please let us know.

From: Archbishop Randolph Sly

Date: Tuesday, October 10, 2000 5:26 PM

Gary,

I wanted to give you an update on my switch to a Quadra Action from my Braun (my letter from August 28). I stuck with the Norelco and the neck irritation has gone down significantly. I have switched between a number of pre-shaves (Lectric Shave, Parks Pre-Aft, Remington Lotion, Dry powder) to try and decrease friction on my skin. There is a lot more "metal" being pushed around than with my foil razor. While there comments are subjective, perhaps they will help. Also, any tips would be welcomed.

1. I think the rotary head actually makes my skin "feel better" afterward. I have noticed some changes where my skin used to feel raw.

2. The shave is not as consistently close as foil. I have to be more careful to cover spots.

3. My neck still gets irritated. This area seems harder to shave.

4. I have trouble getting a close share up near the sideburn area. The foil type seemed to navigate that better. I think the Quadra head makes it hard to get close since the holes - supposedly for a closer shave - are in the interior portion of the rotary head.

I'm still trying to figure out whether to go back or stick with it.

Randy Sly

Thanks for the update, Randy.

From: "Richard Holen" <rholen@yahoo-inc.com>

Date: Monday, October 09, 2000 5:09 PM

I originally purchased my 6550, which I love the saving performance of, back in December of 1999. The first year of operation was not problematic. Since April of 2000, I have had the motor fail three times! The first two times I had the motor replaced. The third time, I contacted Braun directly and they authorized a completely refurbished razor to be given to me by the authorized repair service center here in San Francisco. I used it for approx. two months and it died, mid-shave, 10/10/2000.

When the unit first failed, I was told the blades were dirty from using pre-shaves, which caused the problem. Although I was confident that I was properly maintaining the 6550. I went so far as to clean it with alcohol, as recommended, after every use!. After the second failure - I stopped using pre-shaves altogether!

Design flaw??

Richard Holen

Thanks for your inquiry, Richard  The Braun 6550 having reliability problems again?  When the model was introduced in 1998, I noticed that a few users were having quality control problems with that shaver.  You can look up the 1998 Tell Mr. Steel Beard postings and use your browser's find feature to find these postings.  Does anyone else want to post their recent experiences with the Braun 6550?

From: "irving schwartz" <iconx@pacbell.net>

Sent: Monday, October 09, 2000 12:39 PM

My friend,

I have developed several razor bumps on one cheek. could this be the result of using an electric? Panasonic Linear wet with shaving foam as recommended . Is there a remedy?

Irv.

Thanks for your question, Irv.  I would try to shave with a lighter touch.  Are the razor bumps on your right cheek or your left cheek?  This question is in relation to if you're right handed or left handed.  I don't have a ready answer, unfortunately.  If anyone reading this has a possible solution, please let us know.

From: "Doug Raeburn"

Date: Monday, October 02, 2000 6:48 PM

Subject: Braun Syncro

I'm on my 3rd Braun shaver... they haven't worn out, I've just upgraded periodically. I just got a Braun Syncro to replace my Flex Integral, and I really like it. It's very lightweight, easy to handle and has an ergonomic shape. The shave is noticeably closer than the Flex, as well as fast since you don't have to shave multiple times over the same spot. Also, I've found that the side-to-side motion helps with the problems with shaving the neck.

The cleaner is nice, if a bit gadgety... it does the job. The only downside is that the cleaning unit is pretty big and takes up counter room.

I think this shaver goes a long way to address the areas in which foil shavers have been weak. I recommend it highly.

Doug Raeburn, Pewaukee, WI, USA

Thanks for telling your experience with your Braun Syncro shaver.

From: "R A Barrow" <skeezix@epix.net>

Date: Friday, September 29, 2000 8:25 PM

Gary,

My Panasonic Linear ES882 just arrived from the repair place. The letter I enclosed said:

"While your facility expediently repaired the shaver and returned it to me, there was nothing packed with it to indicate the problem or your solution. I would really appreciate your informing me what action you take on this repair."

In spite of my request, there was no paperwork enclosed with the returned shaver. I even gave them my home and work telephone numbers and my e-mail address. The shaver sounds the same or worse than when I shipped it to them. The proof will be in the performance.

For the benefit of anyone who needs to send a Panasonic in for repair, Turnpike Appliance's new address is:

3495A Lawson Blvd.

Oceanside NY 11572-4905

Thanks,

"Rick" Barrow

Tannersville PA

Thanks for the update, Rick.

From: Sharon Barber

Date: Wednesday, September 27, 2000 12:20 PM

Dear Sir,

I have been reading your fine site now for almost 3 years. I have had trouble switching to electric razors but have remained steadfast in the search for a suitable razor. I had all but given up until I tried the Panasonic brand. WOW! Clearly the superior razor, with shaving foam and that high speed motor my shaves are far superior to any other razor, even a blade. And it washes up so easily. I will soon buy the linear I think just so I have two in the house so I never have to go back to a blade incase the foil ever breaks. Thanx

You're welcome, Sharon and thanks for your note.  I'm glad the Electric Shaver Page was helpful to you.

From: <BobPastor@aol.com>

Date: Monday, September 25, 2000 11:49 AM

Gary:

I was on the German Braun website today (http://www.braun.com/d/p/sh/sh.htm?/d/p/sh/mv/mv3511_con.htm) and the 3520 and 3508 shavers shown are just like my beloved Braun Micron Vario 3 shaver which is on its last legs. Are you aware of anyone selling the 3520 or 3508 shavers in the United States or do you know of a way to buy them over the internet? I called Braun's United States 800 number and they weren't able to help me. Thanks so much and keep up the great work!

Bob

Thanks for your inquiry Bob.  A quick look through the search engines yielded two German on-line stores which offer the Braun 3520 Micron Vario shaver.  I hope you know German as that's the language on these web sites.  The URLs are http://www.technikdirekt.de and http://www.rasurdirect.de.   I hope this helps.

From: "R A Barrow" <skeezix@epix.net>

Date: Wednesday, September 20, 2000 1:40 PM

Gary,

I have not checked in for a while. My Panasonic ES882 is on its way back to Panasonic service for the second time since June. It has the same problem(s) all mine have had--the motor balks, and it no longer takes a charge. I have been using both the ES882 and the (new, replacement) ES8065. The ES882 seemed to perform better when it worked. I still do not see mail from people whose Panasonics prematurely failed. Perhaps my beard is the Linears' 'kiss of death.' Keep up the great service you do with this site.

"Rick" Barrow

Thanks for the update, Rick.

From: "Jason L. Johnston" <jaylane326@email.msn.com>

Date: Monday, September 18, 2000 8:56 AM

Gary:

I've been using Norelco (Philishave) razors for 10 years now. When the 900 series "lift and cut" razor came out, I purchased one along with the EHC-100 electronic head cleaner. I go through that cleaning process about once a month. I'm currently using a 5885 Reflex Action (three years now). New heads annually.

Now we've got the latest 6000 series with a rinseable head assembly, which certainly sounds like a better way to keep the razor clean. But it doesn't sound like the addition of the "holes" with the slots has resulted in a substantially better shave. When one uses the electronic (ultrasonic) head cleaner, you still rinse it with tap water and as you well know, it mostly air dries as it's impossible to dry the blades. Why wouldn't it work to just rinse the Reflex Action head assembly daily under the tap? After all, it's stainless steel and doesn't mind the water when using the factory cleaner (which I suspect is the same quaternium ammonia solution used in barber shops for sterilizing their stainless steel implements).

It would be interesting to hear your thoughts on this...

Thanks sincerely,

Jason Johnston

Thanks for your question, Jason.  The electrosonic head cleaner I use is the version sold in Canada, the Philips SHC100 which I purchased a few years ago at the late, lamented Eaton's store in Sarnia, Ontario which, as the great Canadian comedy group The Royal Canadian Air Farce said, got Wal-Marted.  I also use this cleaner once a month.  After rinsing and before putting the parts back together, I use paper towels to blot dry the combs and cutters.  I have a feeling that not blotting dry the heads could cause corrosion problems over time. The 6000 Series Philishave/Norelco shavers are not the first to have all-waterproof heads.  The Philishave Cool Skin and Norelco Advantage wet/dry shavers have similar Reflex Action heads but are not interchangeable with other Philishave/Norelco models.  I believe that the Cool Skin/Advantage, like the Quadra Action models, have more corrosion resistant materials which allow for daily cleaning under the tap.  I believe the holes in the Quadra Action shavers are a way to get those who like foil shavers to try the Philishave/Norelco Quadra Action shavers as the slots do a better job at longer whiskers.  If any other person has something to say about this, please let me know.

From: "David & Sally Mulhern" <mulhern@mediaone.net>

Date: Saturday, September 16, 2000 10:19 PM

Hi Gary: I was recently on a trip to an area of the country where use of water softeners is common. While I was there I shaved with my Braun as per usual - i.e. after showering. I noticed that showering in this super-soft water seemed to help the whole shaving process some even after drying off. The whiskers somehow seemed softer and my face was maybe a bit more slippery. Have you had any similar experience, or comments from anyone else, or is this just my imagination? I'd be interested in whether water softness is actually one of the variables in shaving quality. Thanks as always for this great web-site.

Regards, David Mulhern

Thanks for your note, David.  That's a good issue to point out in areas where water softeners are necessary to minimize mineral buildup and problems when doing laundry.  As for myself, I live in a city where we get our water from Lake Huron, one of the North American Great Lakes.  So I have no problems with hard water.  I once lived in a area where the well water was notoriously hard, but that was many years ago so my memories are now faded as for my hard water shaving experience.  If anyone living in a home with a water softener can tell their shaving experience, please let me know.

From: "Chris Charlesworth" <chris.charlesworth@totalise.co.uk>

Date: Thursday, September 14, 2000 3:16 PM

Hi and thanks for the advice. I'm on my fifth shave with the HQ4856 now and things are improving,the shave is very close and by dusting my neck with ordinary talcum powder before shaving I find the razor burn is drastically reduced. Given that it is supposed to take two to three weeks to adjust I'm pretty pleased with the results so far. Maybe the HQ5806 would have been even better but as we can't return products once the box has been opened in the UK I don't have the option to change back. Still as I said, my face is getting used to it and I don't have any problem getting around the contours.

Thanks again for the advice and I'll try Remington to see if the Facesaver stick is available over here.

Regards

Chris Charlesworth

Thanks for the update, Chris.

POSTSCRIPT:  After the above update was uploaded, Chris E-mailed me with the following new update:  Just to let you know the SP-5 Facesaver is available in the UK by mail order or collection from Remington shops in York 01904 677899, Birmingham 0121 236 1252 and Bristol 0117 926 8323. I'll be trying it out. Chris  (end of pasted reply)   Thanks again, Chris.

From: "Chris Charlesworth" <chris.charlesworth@totalise.co.uk>

Date: Monday, September 11, 2000 4:24 PM

Hi,

After years of wet shaving, most recently using the excellent Mach 3 razor, I decided to try an electric shaver. After much deliberation, I went for the Philips HQ4856. I am reasonably satisfied with it's performance, accepting that an electric is never going to match a wet shaver, but have experienced a lot of razor burn around my neck. from your postings I see that a lot of you use some form of pre-shave. Can you recommend anything which is available in the UK? Also, just to upset me a little more, would the difference in performance between my micro system and the reflex system have been noticeably better as I actually bought the HQ 5806 first, then changed my mind and the shaver!

Chris Charlesworth

Huddersfield

UK

Thanks for your note, Chris.  The Philishave HQ4856 shaver you have is a Micro Action model which you may get used to using and it does provide a pretty close shave.  I would have preferred the HQ5806 whose Reflex Action heads adjust to the contours of your face better for closer contact so you may not need to go over an area as many times for the desired shave which would improve the comfort level.  The pre-shaves which people (including myself) mention do lubricate your skin which also allows you to use fewer motions in one area.  I use a Remington SP-5 FaceSaver powder stick which is sold in North America.  While I don't know if Remington in the United Kingdom offers a similar pre-shave, the Remington UK web page gives the Remington UK Consumer Hotline number which is 0800 212 438.  So you can find out for yourself.  I hope this helps and thanks again.

From: "Mike McDermott" <mmcdermott@netzero.net>

Date: Thursday, September 07, 2000 10:29 PM

Here's another good site which has shaver info.

http://www.productopia.com/1c/0,1524,1-294-0,FF.html

I'm more confused than ever. Looking at the surveys on this site, it seems the most hated and most loved electric razors are the same brands!

I've been using Remington razors for probably 20 years. My latest one is a TA series triple foil deal. I replaced the batteries a year or so ago, but it has recently developed a problem my other ones did. The trimmer doesn't work unless I lubricate it every day or hold it just right. I've taken it apart a few times and really can't tell what the problem is except it seems key components are plastic. I once tried a Norelco and the shave was terrible. Don't know the brand, perhaps the newer or more expensive ones are better. I have a tough beard which grows quickly. I sometimes shave twice a day. I'm looking for a good quality razor and am really confused by all the information. I would appreciate if someone could make a table comparing features and quality of different razors. Thank You

Mike McDermott

Thanks for your note, Mike.  The most subjective product comparison listing I could find currently for shavers are the results of Electric Shaver Page Survey Page results I have links to from earlier this year.  I would love to see Consumer Reports magazine have an article on electric shavers, but I do not see one coming from them in the near future.  You've already noted that there are several models of shavers which are both loved and hated by different users.  The shaver I like (a Philishave/Norelco Reflex Action model) is hated by several others.  As for your current problem, I suggest taking your Remington to a shaver repair shop to see if it's worth fixing.  I hope this helps and thanks again.

From: Solomon Myers

Date: Saturday, September 02, 2000 12:09 PM

I recently splurged and purchased the Norelco Quadra and have been shaving with it for about 1 week. I have a heavy beard and have historically had problems with ingrown hairs. I have in the past successfully used the Braun 1-2-3 and a Norelco Double Action. I will use the razor for the full recommended adjustment period because I like the easy cleaning with water, the style, the quiet operation, etc. However, so far, I have neck irritation and have found it not so good at catching the long hairs on my neck or under my chin. One key observation, my Norelco double action did not give an extremely close shave, but the shave was acceptable because all of the hairs were trimmed to the same length and thus I got a clean cut appearance. I get a closer shave with the Quadra, but the hairs are not cut to the same length. I suspect this is due to the combination of slots and holes. If Norelco/Philips is listening, I think my ideal shave would be a Reflex Action shaver (all slots) combined with the water washability of the Quadra. Ideally, I would like to convert my Quadra to such a razor simply by replacing the heads, and if need be the blades. Just a thought for those of us with heavy curly beards. A copy of the above portion of this message was sent to Norelco by E-mail.

Also, for the Mr. Steel Beard readers, I think it would help all of the readers if the commenters would specify their beard type. The opinions and observations of someone with a light beard will obviously be less relevant to someone with a heavy beard and vice versa. Some commenters provide this info, but many are not so forthcoming.

Thanks for your note and the reader suggestion, Solomon.  Because of design differences between the Philishave/Norelco Quadra Action and Reflex Action models, I don't think the heads are interchangeable.  Philips does make a waterproof shaver with the Reflex Action heads, the Philishave Cool Skin (called the Norelco Advantage in the USA).  This is a wet/dry shaver as opposed to the Quadra Action models which are intended for dry shaving only.  The only down side to the Cool Skin/Advantage is that the shaver only operates as a cordless.  The Quadra Action is the first waterproof shaver designed to be plugged into a mains or power outlet.  I hope Philips/Norelco will give you a satisfactory reply to your E-mail.

From: <Paulvanston@cs.com>

Date: Saturday, September 02, 2000 9:35 AM

Since I'm currently trying to choose a new electric razor, I was very glad to find your website. Having read through many of the e-mails, I'm starting to conclude that Norelco / Philishave are generally very well regarded, but perhaps you can advise which model (from the bewildering range) is most suitable for me: micro action, double action, reflex action, quadra action etc. My "shaving profile" is as follows:

- I don't like shaving: to me it is a daily chore to be tolerated.

- If I can avoid shaving, I will: I currently use an electric shaver on weekdays only, don't bother at weekends and then use a blade on Sunday night to start the new week.

- I'm more bothered about getting a good overall shave (including face, chin & neck) rather than having an amazingly close shave.

- I've never had a decent razor: I'm 33 now and (until recently) I'm still using a cheap Braun "linear universal" given to me for a birthday more than 10 years ago.

- The top-grade shavers seem to me to be very expensive. Having said that, if they make the chore quicker and more reliable than I'm used to, I guess I'd be happy to pay up - but I'm worried that I might pay above £100 and not see any improvement from the cheap shaver I've used for years.

Can you please advise?

Paul Vanston, England

PS: If you try a shaver and don't like it, is it ever possible to return or replace it?

Thanks for your note, Paul.  My immediate suggestion is to try one of the Philishave Reflex Action shavers which can be found in your price range nowadays.  Whilst the Philips UK web site at http://www.philips.co.uk does NOT mention any promotions or money back offers at this writing, you can send an E-mail through the global Philips DAP web site at http://www.homeandbody.philips.com and click on the word 'feedback' on the top of the page.  By choosing United Kingdom as your country, your inquiry will be sent directly to Philips DAP in the UK.  I hope this helps.

Name: Peter <xorg@visto.com>

Date: Wednesday, August 30, 2000 06:00 PM

Subject: Norelco Quadra vs. Panasonic Linear!

What follows is the end result of eights weeks of testing a Panasonic Linear Model ES8003A (the top-of-the-line Linear only available from The Sharper Image), and a Norelco Quadra 6887XL.

This is my story!

I have a dark and heavy beard, and thanks to my ancestory, I'm also blessed with frequent ingrown whiskers. Over my 20+ years of shaving, I used blades. I tried switching to electrics at least three times, mostly with Norelcos, always with failure. Too much irritation, not-so-close shaves. But this summer I decided to try the latest batch of shavers.

I first purchased a Panasonic Linear from the Sharper Image. This is one heavy and powerful shaver, the wet/dry feature is also awesome! Its cuts really close, as in REALLY close, I mean almost TOO close! The first week I used this shaver I was in serious pain. Bad irritation, and the shaver seemed to enjoy taking off the first layer of my skin along with my whiskers. I couldn't even splash water on my face for hours after shaving - it was that bad. But I stuck with it! I used light foam most of the time with good results.

After three weeks, my face got used to shaver and the irritation improved substantially, I also learned to stop cutting my skin. It does an exceptional job on my face, but where it falls down is under the chin line. No matter how I try, I keep having to shave several times to get the whiskers there, which leads to irritation.

One serious flaw with the shaver is it stand up design. The swivel heads don't move that much, and its hard to get a good feel for pressure and cutting effect under your jaw bone. Its also hard to hold - especially given its heft. On the plus side, it recharges fast and I love the charger stand.

Ok, went back to blades for a week, then tried the Norelco. The first time I fired up the Norelco, I thought it was broken. This baby is whisper quiet - very light too! The Panasonic Linear sounds like a jack hammer compared to the Norelco. I used light foam again and the shave was incredible. It took me half the time to shave compared to the Panasonic, no irritation at all, and it was a joy to hold and manuever across my face, even under the jaw line.

On the downside, the Norelco doesn't shave as close as the Panasonic - don't get me wrong, its still a great close shave, just not as close. This may actually be a good thing, since my face also doesn't sting afterwards like it does with the Panansonic, so its not grabbing the whiskers as hard (I guess.)

So after trying these two electrics, the Panasonic is going back, and I think I'll do my best to stick with the Norelco. In the end, it was a toss up, but the Norelco is also about $75-100 cheaper than the Panasonic, so everything else considered, it wins.

I would recommend that for their next design, Panasonic copy Norelco's design to make their shaver easier to hold and use. Some kind of cutting depth adjustment would also be ideal.

Thanks for mentioning your experience with these shavers, Peter.

From: "Matt Cassell" <mcassell@willamette.com>

Date: Wednesday, August 30, 2000 2:53 PM

I'm in the market for a new electric razor and I'm trying to decide between the dry Norelco 6885, and the wet/dry Panasonic 8068 and the Norelco 5665.

I've always used a dry Norelco, and been happy with it. However, I've heard the wet/dry gives one a better shave. Should I try something new, or stick with the old cliché "If it ain't broke, don't fix it".

Thanks for your help and a great site,

Matt

Thanks for your note, Matt.  If you're happy with the way you are shaving, I'd stay with what you're doing.  The shaver companies have been promoting wet/dry shavers to those who want to try electric shavers but want to retain the experience of wet shaving.  Both Panasonic with their Linear 8000 series and Philips with their Philishave Cool Skin and Norelco Advantage shavers have been very successful in their marketing of wet/dry shavers.  But those of us who have been using dry electric shavers for several years like the convenience of not using water while shaving.  The Philishave/Norelco Quadra Action line, which includes the 6885 you mention, is a dry shaver which has a waterproof housing which makes cleaning much easier, just like with wet/dry shavers.  I hope this helps.

From: "Dennis Landin" <Dennis.Landin@citicorp.com>

Date: Monday, August 28, 2000 3:25 PM

First and foremost, thank you for providing a very helpful and educational site!

What is the best (best rated) electric razor available in the US today?

I've read some reviews, but I've recieved mixed messages.

Thanks for your help!

Respectfully,

Dennis Landin

Thanks for your note, Dennis.  Electric shaver preferences can be very subjective and the foil vs. rotary debate rages on.  Consumer Reports magazine has not published an article on shavers for a number of years so the best source seems to be the Electric Shaver Page's own survey page from last February and March.  Based on those responses, the best foil shaver is one of the Panasonic Linear 8000 series models and the best rotary shaver is one of the Philishave/Norelco Quadra Action models. I hope this helps.

From: Archbishop Randolph Sly

Date: Monday, August 28, 2000 2:30 PM

Dear Gary,

Thanks for maintaining a very practical and helpful page. I come back here regularly for information, etc. I have been using an electric razor for over 30 years. Ever since they came out, I have been using foil shavers, the latest of which is a Braun Integral Ultra-Speed. I have always had good success. Recently I was given a gift of a Norelco Quadra-Action 6885XL. While I have had problems with Norelco's in the past, I thought I'd give this one a serious try because of the unique shaving system. The shave seems to be satisfactory but the irritation to my neck is significant, something I have never experienced with my Brauns (or earlier Remingtons). I am also using the Parks Pro/Aft shaving lotion. I need some advice.

1. Should I give up and go back to the foil?

2. Should I push on and expect the irritation to stop after my face gets used to the razor?

3. Should I switch to a dry powder and see if that makes a difference?

My neck will greatly appreciate any wisdom given.

Randy Sly

Thanks for your note, Randy.  I would first suggest giving the Norelco shaver a chance.  Norelco has a no-risk guarantee offer which you can find at http://norelco.com/norisk/SuperGuarantee.shtml   This URL will give all the details.  I should note that this applies only to Norelco shavers mentioned in this offer which are purchased in the USA.  The powder stick I mentioned in previously replies does help in making the shaving surface glide to your skin with less friction so you would have an easier time shaving with fewer strokes in the same spot and fewer strokes mean less irritation.  The only down side to this pre-shave is that the shaver requires more frequent cleaning.  But then the Philishave/Norelco Quadra Action shaver's waterproof construction makes cleaning a breeze compared to their regular dry shavers.   In the event that you do decide to take advantage of Norelco's offer, since you have had good luck with Braun, then I suggest going back to one. I hope this helps and thanks again.

From: "Seth" <saleseman@bigfoot.com>

Date: Monday, August 28, 2000 2:43 AM

I've been using a Remmington TF400 for a couple years. About a month ago I noticed a sudden drop in performance - it started taking a lot longer to shave - so I put in a new set of cutters and microscreen. Normally I'd expect a sharp improvement with new cutters/screens, but it didn't help at all. I used it with the new cutters/screens for a few weeks, and then there was another drop in performance. Now it is as if the cutters are worn out. It really grabs the beard, but doesn't cut hardly at all. I'll have to keep going over the same area. Normally the screens will wear out long before the cutters will. I've never had the cutters wear out this much on this shaver even after over a year of use, much less just 2 weeks! I tried a silicon lubercant spray today but it didn't help. But I noticed that when I ran it without the head sembly, the cutters randomly twitched around erratically, especially the middle one. Is that normal? Any ideas what could be wrong? Thank You.

Thanks for your question, Seth.  Have you taken this shaver to a repairman to get the insides of the shaver cleaned and lubricated?  When you remove the cutters, does the shaft(s) twitch just like it does with the cutters attached as you described it?  If it does, I hope the shaver needs to be lubed.  Of course the shaver repairman will tell you if there are worn parts involved.  With a two year old shaver, I would doubt there would be worn internal parts.  I hope this helps.

From: <j.schiferli@philips.com>

Date: Friday, August 25, 2000 5:16 AM

Dear Gary,

I saw some discussion about the HQ100 cleaning device.

The HQ100 is a manually operated cleaning device. By means of a spring loaded bellow device special cleaning fluid is pumped through the integral shaving unit. The complete shaving unit of any 2 or 3-header (adapters included) fits in the device. It is not necessary to take the shaving unit apart and clean all seperate parts. The HQ100 'Action Clean' cleaning device and HQ101 refill cleaning fluid are only available under the Philishave brand outside the USA, mainly in Europe

regards, Jos Schiferli

Thanks for your note with the infomation about the Philishave HQ100 cleaning unit, Mr. Schiferli.  This would be a great way to make the otherwise tedious cleaning of Philishave/Norelco heads much easier for those who do not have either the Quadra Action or Cool Skin/Advantage shavers.  I wish that this manually operated cleaner was more widely available.

From: "Adam Feitelberg" <afeitelberg@hotmail.com>

Date: Wednesday, August 23, 2000 9:08 AM

Mr.Steel Beard,

I have a pretty bad case of razor bumps (ingrown hairs) on my neck. Currently I shave with the Mach 3 but I'm thinking of making the switch to an electric raozr. I have seen mixed comments as to whether my neck will be better off with an electric or not. Is there a chance my ingrown hair situation will decrease if I use an electric? If so, should I use a rotary or foil blade? Do you have a specific razor suggestion around the $100 price range?

Thanks for all your time.

Adam

You're welcome, Adam and thanks for your note.  Rotary shavers seem to do a better job at reducing the ingrown hair situation compared to foil shavers.  I've noticed more foil shavers on the marketplace which has a slotted head set of cutters such as the Braun InterFace, but I've received mixed responses from users of this shaver.  At your price range of $100, which I assume is in American dollars, I would suggest one of the Philishave/Norelco 5000 series Reflex Action shavers.  I hope this helps and thanks again.

From: "DANB" <DANB@rswedroearchitects.com>

Date: Saturday, August 19, 2000 2:13 AM

GARY,

DOES THE PANASONIC 8000 LINEAR SERIES HAVE SEALED BATTERIES OR REPLACEABLE BATTERIES?

I'D SURE HATE TO DISCARD A SHAVER SIMPLY BECAUSE ITS RECHARGABLE BATTERIES ARE EXHAUSTED!

ALSO, DO THE 8000'S COME WITH AN A/C CORD, LIKE THE BRAUN 6500 SERIES FLEX INTEGRAL ULTRA SPEED'S?

THANKS, DAN

Thanks for your note, Dan.  Looking back at the old E-mail and looking at the various global Panasonic/National web sites, I am led to believe that the batteries are sealed.  From what I understand, you can send this shaver directly to a Panasonic repair depot for them to replace the battery and reseal the shaver to keep it waterproof. (You may E-mail Panasonic for further info).  The shavers cannot be plugged in directly.  They come with an induction-type recharging stand, just like electric toothbrushes.  So the shavers cannot operate with a mains cord.  I hope this helps.

From: Lawrence E. Gavin <gavinl@tir.com>

Date: Thursday, August 17, 2000 4:48 PM

Subject: New Shaver Concept

I have developed a new concept in electric shavers & I would like to know if your readers can give me an indication of whether it's worth pursuing thru the patent process.

This design not only changes the cutting process from pinching the whisker off to slicing it but also includes a self cleaning cutter head. This would result in a quieter, vibration free unit that will yield a smoother, more comfortable shave since the pulling of the whisker is eliminated.

Hopefully, one of your manufacturer readers might show an interest.

L. Gavin

Rochester, MI

Thanks for your note, Lawrence. I've received E-mail from shaver companies which mention that they do follow these postings. Occasionally, a shaver company executive would feel compelled to post a note in reply to a previous posting. I wish you luck in getting the shaver companies interested in your idea.

From: William W. Sater

Date: Saturday, August 12, 2000 11:30 PM

Thank you for a very good web site and service to electric shaving fans.

I have been shaving with a Norelco Quadra Action and really like the easy cleanup under water. I am not extremely happy the closeness of the shave, but think that Norelco is overall the best razor. Does the Reflex Action shave closer than the Quadra Action? I look forward to your opinion.

Thanks for your question, William.  The Philishave/Norelco Quadra Action line is the latest one from Philips.  As for closeness, I would give both the Quadra Action and Reflex Action about an even score.  Both adjust to your face in a three-dimensional manner.  The main differences between the two product lines are that the Quadra Action shavers add holes to 33% of the shaving surface to get the shorter whiskers better with the rest of the surface being slots, while the Reflex Action heads are all slots which have a slight microgroove on them.  Of course, the slots are great at cutting longer whiskers.  I hope this helps.

From: "Axel Schaab" <as@tf.uni-kiel.de>

Date: Thursday, August 10, 2000 5:54 AM

Hi Gary,

first of all many thanks for your very informative and helpful page. I recently swapped from wet shave to electrical razor and the information your page provided was essential in deciding what shaver to buy. Which leads me to my question:

I purchased a Philishave QuadraAction HQ 6851 (Europe). (Which is equivalent to Norelco 6846XL) One reason for my choice was the possibility to clean the shaver with water. As I live in an area with very high mineral content in the water, I now wonder whether this will affect the shaver in some way ?

I found that there exists a cleaning set, called HQ100 (again: european designation). Do you have any information about how this works (i.e. ultrasonic cleaning ?) and if it could possibly help in removing any mineral residue ?

Many thanks again for your nice page, always a clean shave :-),

Greetings, -Axel-

Thanks for your note, Axel.  From what I understand, the Quadra Action shavers are designed to be cleaned by opening the unit and putting the heads under a running faucet.  Hard water should not be an issue in cleaning a Quadra Action shaver under the faucet.  While I'm not familiar with the HQ100 cleaner, Philips sold a since discontinued electrosonic head cleaner in Canada, the SHC100 which came with a tray to keep combs and cutters together and used a special concentrated solution which I understand is still available in the USA.  This head cleaner they told me is NOT suggested for use with the Quadra Action line because of the different metals used for the waterproof shaver.  The ultrasonic action is to remove residual whiskers and other residue from normal shaving.  I have one myself and the instructions say to completely submerge the dismantled head assembly in the diluted solution, close the lid and let the unit run for 10 to 15 minutes.  Then rinse the head assembly under the faucet and throughly dry before assembling.  Then use their spray lubricant following the lubricant's instructions. Needless to say, this is a rather tedious job so I do this about once a month.  This makes the Quadra Action look good as far as cleaning the shaver is concerned.  Again, the Philips people believe hard water with high mineral content should not impede in cleaning the Quadra Action shavers.  I hope this helps and thanks again.

From: <Ben.Hughes@sm.stmarys-tr.nthames.nhs.uk>

Date: Monday, August 07, 2000 5:48 AM

Dear Mr Steel Beard

I have been using a the old Philishave Tracer for a number of years, but the time has come to buy a new shaver ... the only problem being I'm not sure which one ... do I stay with Philishave or try a foil shaver like Remington?

Please help.

Many thanks

Ben

Thanks for your note, Ben.  Because your face is used to your old Philishave Tracer 2-head shaver, and assuming you've been satisfied with that shaver, I would suggest staying with Philishave. The models currently available which replaced the Tracer line have a better shape if you want to stay with a 2-head model.  If you want to go to a 3-head model, you can't go wrong with either the Quadra Action or Reflex Action Philishave models.  I hope this helps.

From: "Michael Prince" <mwp1971@earthlink.net>

Sent: Sunday, August 06, 2000 10:35 PM

Hello, I have been approximately shaving for about ten years and have always used a blade razor. I can get a couple shaves out of Gillette Sensor and Mach Three with great success. However, my employment has a policy on being clean shaven and I must shave every day of the work week (5 days in a row). Among the obvious of tearing my face up and getting occasional razor bumps, I have chosen to try a Braun 5416 Flex integral shaver that I haven't started using yet.

I have a few questions in reference to the electric razor that I purchased. Is the Parks brand shave ease a good cleaner/ lubricant to use on this razor and will it harm the razor if I spray it on the screen while it's turned on. I have read on different sites that it should be used while the razor is running and others have stated spraying it without mentioning if it should be on or not. Finally, will the Parks Pre/Aft lotion aid in a closer shave with the Braun? Braun advises that powder or lotion it is generally not needed. What are they considering generally?

In the past, I have tried an electric razor, but I didn't use it more than a couple of days. I am hoping to get a close shave without shredding my face. Thanks for your time and I will give my opinion on my luck with the razor after I allow three weeks for adjustment.

PLEASE EMAIL ME IF MY QUESTIONS ARE ANSWERED AND APPEAR ON THE SITE.

--- Michael and Laura Prince

--- mwp1971@earthlink.net

Thanks for your note, Michael.  I always E-mail to Tell Mr. Steel Beard contributors how their comments/questions and my replies will appear on the Tell Mr. Steel Beard page before I upload the material.  This way, if the contributor wants me to make any alterations to the posting, I can easily do that.  As for your actual questions, while I haven't had any experience with Parks products, I can give my experiences with similar shaving aids.  A good cleaner/lubricant I believe should be used on an electric shaver about once a month.  As I use a Philishave (Norelco) Micro Action or Reflex Action shaver, I use the Philips spray lubricant recommended for those models after I use their electrosonic head cleaner.  The instuctions for the Philips spray lubricant says to use the spray while the shaver is running.  As for pre/aft lotion, I would prefer using it before shaving as this lubricates the skin and helps to make the whiskers stand up to aid in shaving.  On summer days like today when the weather is humid and sticky, a pre-shave is highly recommended to make the shaver glide better on the skin.  I hope this helps and thanks again.

From: "NGUYEN HIEN THI" <nguyenh@ucsu.Colorado.EDU>

Date: Thursday, August 03, 2000 12:55 AM

Dear Mr. Steel Beard,

HELP! I'm trying to choose between two of Grundig's electronic shavers for a last minute b-day gift for my boyfriend. Being a female, I have no knowledge whatsoever about shavers. I was wondering if you knew what the difference between the Grundig 8875 & the 8835 (besides the price). Also, is it really worth it?--I've been hearing good reviews on both but I just don't know which to go with.

Hien

p.s. Thanks for the wonderful web page--it really helps a lot of people out (especially the females!)

You're welcome, Hien and thanks for your note.  Between the Grundig Pro Avantgarde 8875 and the Grundig Roltronic Pro 8835, the only differences I see are the two shavers being of different shapes with the newer 8875 being more ergonomic and the 8875 adding a counter stand which the 8835 does not have.  I hope this helps.

From: Ralph G Charlton

Date: Tuesday, August 01, 2000 2:12 PM

I have a relatively sensitive skin and have eventually hated every shaver I've owned ... and I've tried them all.

When I got my current Panasonic ES882 Linear Wet-Dry about a year ago, I realized just how bad all the others really were.

If I let my beard go several days, my old shavers would destroy my face before I got it off. With the 882 it was a breeze. The higher speed makes a HUGE difference. If your face is sensitive like mine, just run the shaver under cold water for a second every 30 seconds or so. Cools the razor, and lubricates and cools your face. And rinsing out the hairs when you're done is wonderful. Hate thinking about all the frustration over all the years with the Remingtons and Norelcos, etc., etc.

Have let at least half a dozen people who see me shaving with it give it a try, and EVERY one of them has asked to keep it. Gives you a pretty good idea of it's capability.

Thanks for the site.

Ralph Charlton

You're welcome, Ralph and thanks for your note.

From: "Philip N. Sternklar" <psternkl@nycap.rr.com>

Date: Sunday, July 30, 2000 8:47 PM

Hi Again,

You can get the Frost Lime Letric Shave at More.com

http://www.more.com/dept_basics/index.html?itemId=353958&skuId=413067

I hope this helps.

It certainly does, Philip.  Thanks for the tip.

From: schwartz

Date: Monday, July 24, 2000 1:45 PM

My friend,

I feel obligated to report the results of 2 months of research on shavers--I am research minded!

I tried all known brands. (all my merchants refunded or traded in) Started with Panasonic wet a few months ago. My penultimate was Braun Syncro--the latest and greatest. What a joke. Thank you but I already have a washing machine in my laundry room. Unnecessary features, cumbersome to use, shaves like a regular Braun (not so hot), sits like a a Tower of Pisa in a funny bowl. Is this a razor or a designer's nightmare? And not cheap.

My last and present shaver: Norelco Advantage. Used in the shower with shaving foam, Much better than Nivea and not greasy.

Your forum supported my efforts. Thank you.

A question for you: Is a Vollco sharpener useful? Cost two for $25. Cheaper than replacement Advantage heads. Advice?

What fun. Irv.

Thanks for your note giving your experiences,Irv.  As to you question about the Vollco shaver sharpener, I would only recommend it for Philishave/Norelco shavers WITHOUT lift & cut heads.  A Philips DAP executive noted that the Philishave/Norelco Lift & Cut cutters use curved knives and the Vollco sharpeners would flatten and possibly destroy the heads.  You can read his complete comments further down in this Tell Mr. Steel Beard page.  Because Norelco Advantage and Philishave Cool Skin shavers also use lift & cut heads, the Vollco sharpeners are clearly not recommended.  I noted in a previous posting that my experience with Vollco sharpeners with lift & cut heads which were noisy were such that they were still noisy and thus ineffective.  I hope this helps and thanks again.

From: "ken cooke" <kenc@shentel.net>

Date: Monday, July 24, 2000 4:46 AM

I am trying to find a product called Williams Lectric Shave-Frost Lime. I have used it before, but it is not in the stores where I now live, in the Shenandoah Valley,VA. Can you advise me of how I can purchase the product from the manufacturer? Thank you, Ken Cooke, Basye VA

Thanks for your question, Ken.  Unfortunately, I'm in the same situation you are. Because the maker of Williams Lectric Shave is not on the Internet and the search engines do not show Lectric Shave Frost Lime but do show the regular and menthol varieties, I do not hold much hope in Lectric Shave Frost Lime being readily available.

From: "Keith Androsky" <danbry39@earthlink.net>

Date: Sunday, July 23, 2000 10:05 PM

Thanks for your excellent site. Here's my problem, while I use only electric shavers, I always have a problem with the hairs on my neck. Could you give me any feedback on which electrics do the best job in this area, while, at the same time, do a good job with the rest of the face?

Thanks in advance, danbry39@hotmail.com

Thanks for your note, Keith.  For a long time, I've been saying that rotary shavers, such as Philishave/Norelco do the best job on the neck area.  But lately, some people have been complaining about how the new Philishave/Norelco Quadra Action shavers do not do a good job on the neck.  You can read the postings further down the list here.  The current consensus among foil shaver users seem to prefer the Panasonic Linear.  I've been using a Philishave Reflex Action shaver myself, but when necessary, I use a dry powder pre-shave to minimize friction and that seems to do the trick for me.  I hope others can give their own suggestions and I hope this helps.

From: Kopányi Szabolcs

To: gflinn@iavbbs.com

Date: Sunday, July 23, 2000 9:13 PM

Hi Gary,

I want to buy a state-of-the art electric shaver, but I don't know which one. I found the Syncro System from Braun and the Philishave Quadra Action #HQ6890 as the biggest competitors. My skin is very sensitive, mostly in the neck-area. Which shaver does less iritate my skin?

I found your site really great, but I could't get a clear answer (there were so much opinions pro and kontra), would You like to help me!

Thanks in advance for any help/information.

Szabi

Thank you for your note, Szabi.  As you noted, there are opinions pro and con with both the Braun Syncro and the Philishave/Norelco Quadra Action.  I would give the edge to the Quadra Action with the suggestion of using a preshave to help straighten whiskers and lessen friction.  I hope others with an opinion can give theirs and I hope this helps.

From: "Mike Wagliardo" <mwagliardo@ticnet.com>

Date: Saturday, July 22, 2000 9:44 AM

Thanks for the website! It is truly a resource.

I want to (belatedly) relay my experience with attempting to find a satisfactory new electric shaver to hopefully help others in the quest for the same. I have been shaving with electrics for approx. 10 years and am currently using an old Remington XLR series screen unit and a Norelco rotary fixed head 3405C. The Norelco is more comfortable, but I must use the Remington to shave my neck hairs, which "lay down" against the skin.

I received a Norelco Quadra Action for X-mas, and had high hopes based on the popularity on this website; however, it didn't work for me at all. I used it for 6 weeks, and had constant problems with skin irritation in the neck area along with an unacceptable shave. I actually get a better shave with the fixed head rotary. The Quadra Action shaver also did a poor job on neck hair.

I would like to try a new screen unit as the batteries are failing in the Remington. Any suggestions? The Panasonic Linear, perhaps?

Regards,

Mike

Thanks for your note, Mike.  Based on recent postings and your own good experience with a foil shaver, a Panasonic Linear model seems to be a good choice.  Of course, if anyone else in the same situation as Mike has any tips, please let us know.

From: "Stephen Baker" <sbaker@honeysuckle.karoo.co.uk>

Date: Saturday, July 22, 2000 3:22 AM

Dear Gary

I live in the UK. I'll be on holiday in the Tampa area in August. I've noticed that shavers are significantly cheaper in the USA than in the UK. I'm particularly interested in a new Quadra action shaver. My question is if I buy a Norelco in the USA will Philips in the UK honour the warranty or would I be forced to return it to the USA if problems developed after purchase?

Thanks for a very informative site.

Best Wishes

Stephen Baker

Thanks for your question, Stephen.  Warranties between the different Philips DAP marketing units world wide do vary.  I can only speak about warranties for the USA and Canada.  For your particular question, I asked Norelco in the USA about their warranty for Norelco shavers outside the USA.  Their answer is that the warranty for Norelco shavers is two years within the USA and one year outside the USA.  In Canada, Philips offers a one year warranty which applies only within the boundries of Canada.  Whilst most service parts are readily available, my main concern is with the rechargeable batteries as Norelco shavers use NiCad cells whilst Philishave shavers marketed in the UK use NiMH cells.  So availability of replacement NiCad cells may be an issue in this case.  You may wish to Contact Philips DAP, either by E-mailing them through the Philips DAP web site I maintain links to or through their UK address: Philips Domestic Appliances & Personal Care, P.O. Box 298, The Philips Centre, 420-430 London Road, Croydon, Surrey CR9 3QR.   Phone: 0845-6010354. I hope this helps and thanks again.

From: "Andrew Levitt"

Date: Wednesday, July 19, 2000 9:39 PM

Hi Gary,

Well, I'm sure all of your readers are anxiously awaiting the next installment of my electric razor saga, so here it is. To recap, I have tried Norelco, Braun, Remington, Grundig, and Panasonic. I thought I had settled on the Norelco Quadra Action as the best, but after a few weeks it began irritating my face and I went back to a blade. I later developed a theory that it was actually the spray lubricant that I used on the Quadra that was irritating my sensitive skin.

Well, I got a new Quadra Action and have been using it for a few weeks without the spray lubricant and am once again happy with it. It does not shave as close as a blade (I don't think any electric can), but it is a pretty good shave and pretty easy on the skin, especially if I remember not to press too hard. So, the end of the saga (for now) is that I'm keeping the Quadra. I am not going to use the lubricant; if it means the heads wear out a little sooner, so be it.

I should mention that when the Norelco ads say it takes three weeks to get used to an electric after using a blade, they're telling the truth. The shave after three weeks is much better than the shave in the first few days.

Thanks again.

Thanks for the update, Andrew.

From: "Mike Daws" <mike@pielink.com>

Date: Wednesday, July 19, 2000 4:04 AM

Hiya!

I recently decided it was time to move on to an electric shaver, and thought I would have a look to see what info the web might have to offer. I was surprised and pleased to find your website - it's helped me greatly in my choice. In fact I've managed to narrow it down to a choice between two - the HQ6830 and HQ6870. The only differences I can see for the %20 contrast in price seem to be superficial; specky lights and grips and stuff. Do you know if there's actually any performance difference?

I'd hate to be suckered in by the model # and lights...

Cheers,

Mike

Thanks for your question, Mike.  There is no performance difference between the two Philishave Quadra Action models you mention.  The only other difference which you noted have to do with recharging indicators, type of storage pouch, grips or no grips. etc.  I hope this helps.

From: Joseph Emmanuel

Date: Sunday, July 16, 2000 9:46 PM

Hi Gary,

I just found out about your web site. I found it through searching the Internet for electric shavers. Nice web site with a lot of useful information. I am glad I found it:).

My question is: Does electric shavers show down after they are used for few years. I have a Remington Microscreen 3 that used to shave fine. I have changed the blade and the Microscreen regularly (every six months). It, however, is not shaving as well as it used to. Is this because the engine has slowed sown? Is there other possibilities for this change that I am missing?

I am thinking to replace it with a new shaver. The Panasonic 8000 series seem interesting. In your forum, "Tell Mr. Steel Beard," however, it seems most people are leaned toward the rotary type shavers (Norelco). Which of these would work for me best? A person who is been satisfied with a Remington Microscreen 3, but like to try other possibilities.

Thanks in advance for any help/information.

Joseph

Thanks for your note, Joseph.  In assuming that your Remington Microscreen 3 shaver is a rechargable model, do you use it every day? I should mention that the rechargeable batteries inside shavers usually last an average of five years before requiring replacement. So I don't think it's the motor although it is a good idea to get the shaver inspected and lubricated every couple of years or so at a shaver repair shop to keep the shaver in tip top condition. This goes for both corded and rechargeable models.  The debate seems endless as to shaver preferences between foil and rotary. If you look at the July Survey Page, the questions this month this month are about shaver preferences for people with different types of whiskers. You may already know my personal preference to be one of the Philishave/Norelco rotary models, either the Quadra Action or Reflex Action lines. The foil shaver users seem to like the Panasonic Linear line as you noted.

From: "jmfield" <jmfield@flash.net>

Date: Saturday, July 15, 2000 10:04 PM

I have been using electric razors for years and have tried slotted head, foil head and rotary head. Right now I have a Remington dual foil and a Norelco triple head rotary head. I am really not too happy with either of them even though the are second generation razors to me. I had, in the past a battery powered Remington, triple slotted head which I liked very much. In fact, my wife took over this razor for her own and loved it until it literally fell to pieces.

My Problem: Does anybody still make a slotted head, battery powered electric razor? If so, who and where?

Thanks for your question.  Slotted head shavers with reciprocating cutters are becoming harder to come by.  The only models I see nowadays are foil/slotted head hybrids such as the Braun InterFace.  Two of the three models in the InterFace line are rechargeable and are widely available.  I hope this helps.

From: "Philip N. Sternklar" <psternkl@nycap.rr.com>

Date: Friday, July 14, 2000 11:24 PM

Hello again,

I am using a Panasonic es883 for just under 2 years now. How do I know when it is time to replace the foil/blade? I know the recommendations from Panasonic, should I use their suggested intervals?

Thanks again for the site!

Philip N. Sternklar

psternkl@nycap.rr.com

Thanks for the new note, Philip.  I would recommend the suggested replacement intervals, unless the foil becomes damaged, either dented or broken, of which the foil must be replaced immediately.  I hope this helps.

From: <minion@freemail.nl>

Date: Thursday, July 13, 2000 5:08 PM

Hello,

A few days ago I switched from a Philishave (an older 3-head "double action" model) to a new Braun Syncro. I hoped it would shave faster and perhaps better. Now I've only used it two times, but so far I'm not so pleased with the Syncro. It takes twice as long to get the same result as my Philishave: almost half an hour for an acceptable shave! And I thought my Philishave was slow... I guess I've got some stubborn hairs, a rough skin, or I must be doing something wrong...

I followed the instructions from the Braun manual: shave before washing, at the right angle, against beard growth, with stretched skin.

1. Perhaps you've got some tips?

2. Does your pre-shave powder only reduce skin irritation or does it actually improve shaving time? If so, what powder is it?

3. What's the average daily shaving time for a Syncro (versus a new Philishave "quadra action" or "cool skin")?

The only advantage the Braun has (in my experience) is that it's more friendly (less irritating) to the skin than the Philishave...

Thanks,

Hugo.

Thanks for your note, Hugo.  I'll try to answer your questions:

1.  Outside of using a pre-shave, you seem to be doing everything right.

2.  The pre-shave powder you're asking about is intended to reduce shaving time as it reduces friction while you're shaving.  The increased speed would also reduce skin irritation.  The pre-shave powder stick I use is marketed by Remington in the USA and is made in Switzerland.  It may be available from another source.

3.  I would guess that the Syncro, because it has two foil heads and one slotted head, would take longer to use than a Philishave.  Philishave shavers shave faster because the slots on the heads catch the whiskers faster than the holes on foil shavers.  I would guess two or three minutes with a Braun as opposed to a minute or less with a Philishave.  If anyone wants to mention their shaving time with their shaver, please do.

I hope this helps.

From: "Jon Frewin"

Date: Sunday, July 02, 2000 7:42 AM

Dear Gary

I have had a Philishave 890 for years now, but have never got past using it for a few days, as it is remarkably painful, so I return to my wet razor.

Having seen these new lotion razors, I wonder whether it would be possible to use something in conjunction with this 890 razor, or whether there is a product out there which one can use after or before shaving. I would like the convenience of electric shaving but at the moment it is just too annoying!

Best wishes

Jon

Thanks for your note, Jon.  The first thing I would ask is 'have you replaced the heads on your Philishave HS890 shaver?'  Shaver heads do not last forever.  If I recall right, your model uses the Philishave/Norelco HQ4 replacement heads.  As for a lotion you can use for shaving.  I would recommend using a pre-shave lotion formulated to work in conjection with electric shavers.  The pre-shave allows you to shave with a minimum of friction so the shaver glides on your skin.  I use a pre-shave powder stick which does the same thing.  I'm sure the Philips DAP customer service people have their own ideas on what to use, but I don't know what they recommend that's available in the United Kingdom.  I would suggest going to the Philips DAP web site I have linked elsewhere and click your mouse to the area marked "Feedback" on the top of their home page.  When you fill out the feedback page, by choosing United Kingdom as the country you live in, a Philips DAP UK customer service representative will give you an E-mail reply.  I hope this helps.

From: "P. Gandiga" <teekygod@hotmail.com>

Date: Wednesday, June 28, 2000 6:56 PM

Dear Gary,

Although it's been said many times before, congratulations on a really excellent site. Unfortunately, trying to find information on electric razors (either on the internet or from the manufacturers) is extremely difficult, and you address this need brilliantly.

I've been a Gillette Sensor Excel user for all of my 12+ years of shaving, but recently my girlfriend (no doubt influenced by my electric shaving roomate) bought me a Braun 6550 Flex Integral Ultraspeed as a birthday gift. Although I'm a little reluctant to give us the smell of shaving gel in the morning, I figured that the electric might not be a bad idea as I give up my life as a graduate student and enter the real world (I'm told that they enforce the shave-every-day rule a little more stingently there) and decided to give the electric a try.

Now, about a week and a half later, I find my resolution to switch to an electric waivering a little and was wondering if you could please answer a few questions which I had about electrics once and for all:

1. Could you please decisively explain the pros and cons of using an electric versus an old fashioned razor and water? For instance, Remington's famous tagline was "as close as a blade or your money back"; is it realistically possible to get as good a shave with an electric as a blade? (So far, I must admit I'm a little dissapointed with the results, but my roomate keeps insisting that it's just because my skin and face need to get used to the razor.)

2. I notice that a lot of the remarks in the 'Tell Mr. Steel Beard' forum voice concerns over the cleanliness of using an electric; if i'm going to continue using the Braun, should I switch to an alcohol-based aftershave like Old-Spice or can I continue to use my lotion-based aftershave?

3. The conventional shaving wisdom which my dad taught me always warned that shaving against the grain with a razor will cause your hair to grow back quicker, thicker and clumpier (all things which, as a person already subject to a 5o'clock shadow at 3pm, I am anxious to avoid). Yet, most shaving tips (esp. those included with the Braun) advocate going against the grain; do the same side-effects still occur with the electric as with the razor?

4. I am also having trouble getting the areas under my lower lip and at the edge of my jawline clean-shaven in the mornings. Although part of this is probably due to my fears of shaving away my facial hair (I sport the same goatee-mustache combo favored by notable names such as Mark McGuire and D'Artagan), I'm sure it must at least partially be my shaving technique. Should I be using the straight, short strokes that work when shaving with a blade, or do longer strokes or tiny circular strokes work better?

Thanks so much for your time, Garry. Already, your forum has helped to answer a lot of my questions and concerns about electrics, and I hope that you can help to answer these too.

Until later, take care and, again, congrats on an excelently run site.

Sincerely,

Patrick Gandiga

pgandiga@jhu.edu

Thanks for your note, Patrick.  I'll try to answer your questions:

1.  The shaver companies do recommend allowing about a month for your face to become fully accustomed to the new shaving method.  The obvious pros are the electric shaving is quicker, does not require water or foam, and is less bloody.  The obvious con I can think of is less close a shave, but the shaver companies, despite what Victor Kiam started saying 20 years ago, keep improving the shavers to give closer shaves with more comfort.  The Philishave/Norelco Quadra Action, Panasonic Linear and the new Braun Syncho line are obvious examples of shaver improvement.

2.  As long as you're the only person using the shaver, you can keep using what you're using.  If you share the shaver, then it's a good idea to try alcohol-based aftershaves to minimize bacteria.

3.  Shaving against the grain is a better idea, in my opinion, as the whisker is less likely to have a pointed tip which could curl up and re-enter the skin to create a type of pimple called a "razor bump".  Of course, one reason a person uses an electric shaver is for quick touch-ups while at work.  This may also explain why an overwhelming majority of shaver users in my Survey Page prefer a rechargeable model which can be used anywhere.

4.  Because I also have a goatee, I have a similar problem.  How I deal with gradually increasing beard area is to use a beard trimmer without the guard to reshape my beard now and then.  After trimming, I use short circular motions with my regular shaver to shave off the remaining stubble beyond the newly trimmed areas.

I thank you as well for your kind words and I hope this helps.  As always, if anyone else has any tips, please let us know.

From: <scmguru@home.com>

Date: Wednesday, June 28, 2000 9:01 AM

Is it possible to get a mineral build up on the blades of an electic shaver if it is used in or washed in water with high mineral content? If so, will this adversely effect it's cutting ability?

Thanks.

michael

Thanks for your question, Michael.  In areas which have hard water, I can see where mineral deposits would be an issue.  I would think that the mineral buildup would occur over time.  I give my shaver (a Philishave rotary) a through cleaning every month or so using an electrosonic head cleaner designed for this shaver which I got a few years ago.  I believe that mineral buildup is more of an issue with a wet/dry shaver which gets more frequent contact with water.  As long as you replace the head assembly at recommended intervals, I don't think that mineral buildup would adversely affect shaving performance.  If anyone else has first hand experience with wet/dry shavers and hard water, please let us know how you deal with this.  I hope this helps.

From: "R A Barrow" <skeezix@epix.net>

Date: Friday, June 23, 2000 3:39 PM

Gary,

The saga continues. Sears exchanged my still-under-warranty Panasonic Linear ES8065 for an exact replacement. I shipped my ES882s (also under warranty) to an authorized repair place in Long Island. It returned less than five days later. Turnpike Appliance Service had fixed, not replaced it. There was absolutely no paperwork with it when it arrived in its packing box, so I still do not know what failed. It obviously had to be the motor, batteries or both. The charger was OK.

So, the counter is reset to zero. How long will it be until one or both fail again? By the way, the old model ES882s appears to give the better (wet) shave.

Thanks for the "ear."

Rick Barrow

You're welcome, Rick and thanks for the update.

From: "SHANE R.KLOEPER" <kloepfer@pacbell.net>

Date: Friday, June 23, 2000 6:07 AM

Sir, I have been shaving my chest with a regular razor and often get ingrown hairs. Would an electric shaver help? Which style shaving head would you recommend?

Thanks,

Shane Kloepfer

email Kloepfer@pacbell.net

Thanks for your question, Shane.  I would suggest a slotted head shaver.  One example is a Braun InterFace two-head shaver which has one slotted head shaving surface which I would favor over the other head which has holes.  Another suggestion is a rotary shaver such as one of the Philishave/Norelco models.  I hope this helps.  If anyone else uses an electric shaver for unwanted chest hair, please let us know your preference.  I hope this helps.

From: Sherrill Lyle

Date: Tuesday, June 20, 2000 8:52 PM

Hello;

My husband has a Norelco shaver, model # 5886 XL, which he loves. Two of our sons and a son-in-law who have sworn never to use an electric shaver love Dad's Norelco and want one for themselves. JUST LIKE DAD'S! None of us have been able to find

this model any more. Is it still made? If not, what is a comparable model. Please advise. Our oldest son says this is the only electric shaver that will ever touch his face. We are desperate!

Thanks,

( Mrs. ) Sherrill Lyle motherwolf@snowcrest.net

Thanks for your question, Sherrill.  The Norelco 5886XL, if memory serves me right, is a special edition of the Norelco 5885XL (aka Philishave HQ5885).  All these models have been discontinued, but I noticed that some places, including both my sponsors Giantsavings.com and Goodmans.net, which you can access through the sponsored link banners, still offer the 5885.  I hope this helps.

From: "Andrew Levitt"

Date: Saturday, June 17, 2000 4:56 PM

Gary,

I think I figured out why my Quadra Action razor started irritating my face after initially giving me such good results, and I wanted to run my theory by you and your readers to see if anyone has any insight on the issue. The irritation started shortly after I sprayed the razor with the spray lubricant after using it for a few weeks, and I think the lubricant, not the razor itself, may be the culprit. This leads to two questions: (1) have you heard of anyone having this kind of problem, and (2) is it o.k. to use the Quadra Action and only clean it by rinsing it off without using the spray lubricant (or any other lubricant, since my skin doesn't like oil)?

Thanks for you help.

Your welcome, Andrew and thanks for your note.  That is a problem I hadn't come across, but with the more rust resistant materials on the Quadra Action heads, I can see where the cleaning regimen using water would make shaver maintenance easier.  I don't think regular use of a lubricant is necessary with the waterproof shavers. The Philishave/Norelco lubricant I think you're referring to is sold in the USA as the AL80 and in Canada as the AL80C.  I noticed that Philips also markets (or marketed) a lubricant type 389 SHC/1 in some other countries from looking at my old Philishave HS775 shaver manual.  All the above lubricants were developed before the waterproof shavers, which include the wet/dry Philishave Cool Skin/Norelco Advantage models, were introduced.  Of course, if anyone else has something to say about Philishave/Norelco waterproof shavers and lubricants, please let us know.

From: "R A Barrow" <skeezix@epix.net>

Date: Wednesday, June 14, 2000 11:43 AM

Subject: Panasonic's final answer

Gary,

Here's the non-answer I finally got from Jennifer Manno. I am going to send Panasonic my two Linears. Unless I am completely crazy, your Mr. Steel Beard fans who purchased Linears about a year ago should begin to see failures. If they do not, it could be because their beards are not as heavy as mine, they never shave wet, they purchased better products or have much better luck than me.

Thank you,

Rick Barrow

skeezix@epix.net http://www.qsl.net/k3iw/ k3iw@arrl.net

You're welcome, Rick and thanks for the update and the reply from Panasonic which is shown below:

Dear Mr. Barrow:

I do remember your email and did reply back to you. If you did not receive, then I apologize. In response to your email, we do not expect consumers to purchase more than one shaver and we do provide authorized servicers to repair your shaver. Please find their information below:

Turnpike Appliance Service Center, Inc.

86 Hempstead Turnpike

West Hempstead, NY 11552

800-628-3911 (outside NY)

516-486-5700

www.smallappliance.com

Appliance Sales and Service Co.

840 Folsom Street

San Francisco, CA 94107

800-866-7837

415-362-7195

www.thegourmetdepot.com

Please contact them with your request. I do hope that they can help you with your problems. I thank you for your understanding and continued patronage.

Panasonic Personal Products Company>

(end of pasted E-mail)

Thanks again, Rick.

From: "Andrew Yeoman" <andrewyeoman@ecademy.com>

Date: Wednesday, June 14, 2000 10:20 AM

Dear Gary,

For 20 years I had been wet-shaving and not enjoying it so I decided to try an electric razor but the choice was mind numbing. Luckily I found your forum whilst searching for information on the internet and it has been very useful. Based on my visit to the forum I now own a Panasonic 8003 which I bought from The Olympic Shaver Centre in the UK who I reached by following one of your links; they were very efficient and offered a good deal and I am glad that I made the change.

It has taken a while to get used to the Panasonic and it still doesn't do a fantastic job on my neck but I am willing to live with this because it does everything else so well. I started with dry shaving but this was uncomfortable so I began shaving in the shower using a little soap-free facial wash and the results are good and fairly fast. As an added benefit cleaning the shaver is an integral part of shaving in the shower so it is always clean and relatively sterile. There has been no skin irritation even though I have sensitive skin and because I no longer scrape away layers of skin my face feels much less raw. I would certainly recommend the Panasonic 8003 to anyone thinking of buying a new electric shaver. And it looks and feels great.

Thanks for the time you devote to maintaining the forum, it is a great source of information.

Regards,

Andrew Y, England

Thanks for your note giving your experiences and tips, Andrew.  I glad that the material in the Electric Shaver Page was very useful for you.

From: "Paul Williams" <PWILLIAMS@genesco.com>

Date: Tuesday, June 13, 2000 3:24 PM

My Dad is 79 years old and his shaving habits aren't quite what they used to be. For Father's day he asked for an electric shaver. My question is which type is best for a person who sometimes lets his facial hair get long?

Thanks for your note, Paul.  For those who have long whiskers, I would suggest a shaver whose shaving surface consists of slots rather than a shaving surface with holes.  Any Philishave or Norelco shaver would be a good choice and the higher end models give a better shave with more comfort.  Of course your father should allow about a month for his face to become fully accustomed to the new shaving method.  While foil shavers are not recommended, there are foil/slotted head hybrid shavers available from Braun, including the InterFace and the new Syncro models which work with both short and long whiskers.  I hope this helps.

From: "Bill Gusky" <moments@mpinet.net>

Date: Tuesday, June 13, 2000 8:14 AM

I've used Norelco triple head shavers for many years with satisfactory results. A few months ago my wife bought me a new high-end Norelco rotary rechargeable razor. Within about a week it screeched to a mid-shave halt with one cutter blade protruding through the head. We returned it to the store and exchanged it for a similar rotary Norelco. Within about a week that shaver too screeched to a mid-shave halt with one cutter blade protruding through the head, but not before my movement of the shaver across my face scratched me. We returned the faulty shaver and exchanged it for a Panasonic model ES8067 straight-line foil wet-dry shaver. I thought I'd solved my problem. Within about two weeks the cutter blade ate it's way through the foil leaving two large ragged holes at the 1/3 and 2/3 point along the length. About now you are saying it's obvious that I must depress very firmly upon my face with the razor to cause this damage, no? Not true - I make it a point to let the razor glide very lightly across my face, especially after the first Norelco failure. And I cleaned those razors frequently, every few days. And I used the Panasonic both wet and dry.

I've since given up on electric razors, and use a Gillette Sensor blade system although I'd rather have the convenience of the electric. But I can't imagine what has caused such rapid failure after I've been using Norelcos successfully for many years. I do not have a heavy beard, and I'm very careful with my handling and storage of my razors. Is a puzzlement.

Bill Gusky

http://home.mpinet.net/moments

DeLand, Florida

Thanks for your note, Bill.  I'm sorry about the bad experience you are having with electric shavers lately.  I'm curious which Norelco (Philishave) models you're having the bad experience with.  I hope it's not the Quadra Action line which got good marks in last March's Survey Page, but did get some bad experience mention in the same survey.  I hope you contacted Philips/Norelco about this.  If you haven't, I'm sure someone from Philips follows these postings based on a posting a Philips executive made on this forum earlier this year.  As for Panasonic and other foil shavers, the foil surfaces are delicate and, as you mention, are prone to breakage.  Foils should be replaced at intervals recommended by the shaver maker to avoid situations like was mentioned here.  Thanks again for your note.

From: safer

Date: Friday, June 09, 2000 9:01 AM

Based on reading the specs, the Norelco 6846XL would suit my needs, how does it compare to the 6885XL. The battery life and recharge times seem the same. The descriptions of the head assembly and cutters appear to be identical on both models. The only difference I can discern is that the 6885XL has a fancier computerized LCD readout and the body is silvery and slicker looking. As to how robust the 6885XL is vs the 6846XL, if you dropped both of them, I have no idea. Regards shave, are they not 100% identical?

Thanks,

Alex Safer

Thanks for your question, Alex.  The shaving performance is identical and I believe they are equally rugged so, as you imply, the main difference between the two models is recharging display festures.  On the Norelco 6885XL (aka Philishave HQ6885), it has the "personal minutes left" battery indicator on the back-lit LCD charge meter.  On the Norelco 6846XL, it has LED charging and battery full/low indicators.  If you don't care about the recharging bells and whistles, the 6846 is a good choice.  I hope this helps.

From: Anderson

Date: Sunday, June 04, 2000 9:01 PM

Hi Gary,

Having read your very informative "Tell Mr Steel Beard" page, I'm considering buying a Philishave Reflex. However, I'm confused by the model identification numbers. All the Reflex models listed on www.electricshaver.com have a number ending in XL (e.g. 5821XL). All the models I found listed in the philips.com web site, and a few other places, start with HQ (e.g. HQ5806). What's the difference?

Is it possible to find anywhere an explanation for the 2 letters and each of the four digits? I've managed to work some of them out by laboriously looking at the specs (e.g. for HQ5806: 5 = Reflex, 8 = Mains/rechargeable), but there's got to be a better way!!

Regards,

Alex

Thanks for your question, Alex.  The Philishave/Norelco model numbering system (introduced in 1995) is pretty straight forward.  A four digit number (e.g. HQ5615) is for triple-head shavers and a three digit number (e.g. HQ561) is for double-head shavers.  A two digit number (e.g. HQ20) is for two-head battery operated travel models.  On the first digit, 6 is for the Quadra Action line, 5 is for the Reflex Action line, 4 is for the Micro Action line, 3 is for the Double Action line and 2 is for the Rota Action line.  On the second digit, 8 is for rechargeable cord/cordless models, 6 is for rechargeable only which cannot work while plugged in, 4 is for corded only models and 0 is for battery operated models.  The third digit indicates whether it's a high or low end model within the product line.  The last digit (which obviously applies only to triple-head models) indicates variations of an identical product such as the colour of the shaver's housing or in the case of rechargeable models, the type of battery used in which even-numbered models usually use NiMH cells and odd-numbered models use NiCad cells.  As for the lettered prefixes and suffixes, the HQ prefix is for Philishave branded models.  Norelco branded models, which are sold in the USA, have a two-letter or one-letter suffix depending on the type of model.  An XL suffix indicates a cord/cordless rechargeable model.  An X suffix is for Norelco rechargeable models which do not work while plugged in.  An LC suffix is for corded models and the DB suffix is for battery operated models.  You can check out these different model numbers on a page I set up indicating Philips DAP shaver availability in Canada, Europe and the USA which you can find directly at http://iavbbs.com/gflinn/phshavrs.htm  I hope this helps.

From: Andrew Levitt

Date: Thursday, June 01, 2000 7:27 PM

Hi Gary,

I need to amend my posting of a while ago in which I sang the praises of the Norelco Quadra Action. After a while, I began to develop the same neck irritation I used to get with previous Norelco models. And so the search for the "Holy Grail" continues. The only unexplored territory for me is Remington (and Wahl, I guess). Remington looks like they have some interesting models, but I don't know how to select from among the Intercept, MicroScreen, or rotary models. Any thoughts?

As always, thanks for your help.

Thanks for the update, Andrew.  The Remington Microscreen 3 and Intercept models were favored based on the Survey Page for March.  Avoid the Remington rotary models as they got low marks in the same survey.  While I don't have enough feedback on Wahl shavers, their unique selling point of having different foils for different skin surfaces does look tempting.  I hope this helps.

From: David Enzel

Sent: Sunday, May 28, 2000 9:37 AM

Subject: Travel Shavers

Hi Gary,

I saw the posting asking about travel shavers. I bought the Grundig travel shaver a couple years ago. It has been a disappointment. It just does not shave very closely and I have to go over the same area several times. I find my Panasonic 8068 fits into my briefcase comfortably and the extra size and weight compared with the travel shaver are worth it to get a close and comfortable shave. Your web site is terrific.

Cheers!

DAVID ENZEL

Thanks for your note mentioning your experience with a Grundig travel shaver, David.

From: James & Carole Roseland

Date: Thursday, May 25, 2000 9:33 AM

Hi Gary!

Thanks for maintaining a terrific web site. I return to it often for the latest "buzz" on electric shavers and I'm never disappointed!

I'd like to add a little more information to the discussion about Panasonic shaver models that took place in this forum back in late March. What I know is based mostly on observation, along with the help of a couple of catalogs, so its accuracy is pretty much up for grabs. Nevertheless...

The 800-series Linear shavers operated at 12,000 rpm, with the exception of the 884, sold only in Japan. It and the 8003 (with its special "3D floating blade system" and sold here by Sharper Image) operated at 13,000 rpm.

It appears from the current Japanese catalog that all 800-series Linear models have been discontinued there, replaced (as they have been here) by the 8066, 8067, 8068 (all 13,000 rpm), and (now on sale in Japan) the 8003. The 8003 is the top-of-the-line model there.

However, the 12,000 rpm 883 is apparently still available in some markets. I have seen it for sale in Europe and as an "export only" model in Japan (where it is called a "Panashave").

The Sharper Image continues to offer the silver 8003, but the store now sells a blue version that I haven't seen anywhere else. In addition, at least until last Christmas, Sharper Image was selling a unique, all-gray, translucent version of the 3001 (which is available in a blue/yellow combo and called the "Dive" at a number stores here, including Target).

Finally, Panasonic offers a new, three-head, 7000-series of "System Smoother" shavers in Japan that operate at 10,000 rpm and only seem to be available there. They're offered with colorful trim and have a list price of approximately $120 to $160. I now own a metallic-blue 7007 and, although the pitch of its motor is noticeably lower than my Sharper Image 8003, the shave it gives is comparable to its more expensive counterpart. (Panasonics do, however, leave something to be desired when it comes to shaving necks!)

I appreciate your giving me a chance to share some of the shaver trivia I've gathered from my travels. My wife thanks you, too, because it means that she doesn't have to sit for hours while I rattle on about it!

Best regards,

Jim Roseland

P.S. If you haven't already, check out the new, colorful, translucent (in true i-Mac tradition!) models of the Philips/Norelco 4000-series at Target! They're corded, too!

Thanks, Jim for the info.  The Target store nearby does not have the new corded Philips/Norelco shavers yet, but I'll keep my eye out for them.  I looked at the Philips home and body web site and noticed that the Philishave model changes for 2000/2001 have already been posted for the European market.  I guess I should start revising the Philips DAP shaver availability page to start the 2000/2001 section for Europe. The main thing I noticed with the three-headed models is that the Micro Action 4000 line is the new low end line for Europe and the 3000 series Double Action and the 2000 series Rota Action shavers are discontinued.  You can see the changes for yourself at http://www.philishave.com  POSTSCRIPT DATED MAY 30:  I got to see the new Micro Action shavers at Target.  They are the lime colored 4403LC and the grape colored 4404LC.  While neither are on the Norelco web site yet, it looks similar to the Philishave HQ4401 which is marketed in Europe.   I did get to see that model's Norelco counterpart, the 4401LC, at the nearby Wal-Mart.  Again, the Norelco web site does not yet list it.  I understand that the Norelco webmasters are not yet finished listing the 2000/2001 models and I expect them to be finished updating the web site in a couple of months.

From: <RSCHUMACHE@aol.com>

Date: Wednesday, May 24, 2000 12:07 PM

Hello:

I have just discovered your site and have had some very good information already. Keep up the good work!

I am in the market for a new electric shaver. I have used a Braun for several years and it is just about dead. The two finalists in my research are the Panasonic ES8068/ES8067 and the Norelco Quadra shavers. The Norelco has a 12 volt adapter, what about the Panasonic? My research doesn't indicate that Panasonic even offers this as an accessory. Can you tell me?

Thanks.

Dick Schumacher

Thanks for your note, Dick.  From what I could find, I found no provisions for a 12 volt adapter for the Panasonic models you mention.  Philishave/Norelco does offer an optional 12 volt adapter for their Quadra Action shavers as you noted.  The Quadra Action adapter is part number HQ6010.  I hope this helps.

From: Chris

Date: Saturday, May 20, 2000 12:05 PM

Hi,

I am new to your site and it was interesting to hear about the new Braun Syncro shavers. I am looking to purchase a new razor. I've been using a Remington Triple for a while now and I'm in the market for a Braun. I'd like to ask Stephan Gilch about the Braun Syncro. If some folks are saying that it's not available here in the U.S. just yet, where did he purchase it from? Overseas?

Thanks.

Gonzos@Mindspring

Thanks for your note, Chris.  I understand that the Braun Syncro was purchased in Europe.  I believe it will be introduced to North America later this year.  Now that the Syncro the star of Braun's home page, I've just E-mailed Braun (through their web site) asking about when the Syncro shavers will be available in the USA and Canada.  I then stumbled onto a Gillette press release which mentions that the Braun Syncro shavers will become available in the USA in July.  I hope this helps.

From: Chuck

Date: Friday, May 19, 2000 2:28 AM

Greetings!

After dropping my old reliable Braun 5502 foil razor into the sink and breaking it the other day I found myself in need of a replacement. While the Braun gave me a good close shave the trimmer was located so that it was impossible to see whether you were trimming your mustache or the end of your nose and it always had trouble with the hairs on my neck, which appears to be a common problem with foil razors. I was resolved to get a razor that would solve these problems while still giving me a close shave. I was ecstatic to find this site, finally, the answer to my questions. I read every page, looked at all the surveys, read all the messages and then headed down to Wal-Mart with my top 3 choices in mind and my credit card in hand. These were my choices, the Panasonic Linear, Norelco Quadra and the Braun Flex Integral. Wal-Mart had all of them, not all the different models of each choice, but several of each one. First, I think the LCD screens and all the blinking LED's are a little rediculous, it's a shaver, not a video game and I'm a computer consultant, not Mr. Spock...I want a razor, not a Tricorder. Secondly I hemmed and hawed before finally realizing that I just wasn't ready to spend $100+ on an electric razor that had more blinking lights than my last Christmas tree, even though I probably would have loved one of them. Add to that the Braun still had the trimmer in that rediculous location. Finally I saw a lone Remington model R-845 in the bottom of the case, it was the only one of it's kind and the only rotary Remington in the case, all the rest were foil shavers and I was leaning toward a rotary because most of the people posting here seem to think they do the neck hairs better than the foil shavers. The Remington was $39.95, a heck of a lot less than the others, and hey, it says on the box it's the best electric shaver made...Remington wouldn't lie to me would they? Plus, there was only a single light on it...this one was for me! I bought it, took it home and charged it up. Even though I'd been using electric razors for over 20 years this is my first experience with rotary shavers so I didn't know what to expect. I fired it up and took it for a spin. When I was through I had these impressions. First, it was fast, easily cut my time in half from the Braun, and I had just replaced the blades and foil a month ago, so the Braun was at it's best. Second, it cut the neck hairs in one or two passes, wow, that impressed me, the Braun wouldn't cut them without trimming first if I ran it across them a hundred times. Third, the shave wasn't as close as the Braun, but I'm hoping that will improve as both I and my face become used to the shaver. Fourth, it irritated my skin slightly, but it faded in 20 or 30 minutes, again I hope that will go away with time. Since this is a rechargable and won't run with bad/dead batteries even if it's plugged in, I'm glad to see that the batteries are replaceable and the whole razor doesn't have to be trashed when the batteries finally die. And as far as cleaning is concerned, the whole top cutter assembly pops off as a unit making it easy to clean and pop back together. Admittidly I've only used this razor once, but my initial impression is very good. It did all I could ask from it quickly and well and it didn't break my budget in the process. And who knows, if I win the lottery I can toss this one in my briefcase and get the high dollar one for home. Wait, what am I saying? If I win the lottery I won't even own a briefcase any more.....make that the saddlebags of a new Harley instead! If you're on a budget and need a good shaver the Remington R-845 is worth taking a look at.

BTW, thanks for the great razor info site!

Chuck

Thanks for telling of your experience with your Remington R-845 which looks like a good budget shaver.

From: Steven Osorio <steve_1224@hotmail.com>

Date: Thursday, May 18, 2000 6:49 PM

Hello, I've just been on your web site for the first time on found it very interesting. I was using a low-end Remington Dual Track 35 and found that not only it irritated my skin with regular usage (every other day) but also that I had to also pass it over and over certain spots just to get a close enough shave especially my neck area. Last weekend I thought I'd treat myself to a better quality shaver so I purchased a Norelco Quadra Action 6886XLD and found it shaves a little better and with fewer passes and less irritation as my old shaver. I know that when a guy makes the switch from blade to electric shaver there's an accommodation period. I'd like to know if there's an accommodation period when switching from one electric shaver to different one and if so, does the new shaver shave better after this accommodation period.

Thanks for your note, Steven.  The differences between the Remington Dual Track 35 and the Norelco 6886XLD (aka Philishave) Quadra Action shavers are very significant so there is an accomodation period of about a month for your skin to adjust to the new shaving method.  The recent survey page questions about particular models do show the Philishave/Norelco Quadra Action shavers to be the best rotary model line.  I hope this helps.

From: manuel emma <manuelemma@hotmail.com>

Date: Friday, May 12, 2000 12:35 AM

Hello Gary,

Here is a little suggestion for another choice on your webpage.

Since many of your readers offer tips on where to find the cheapest shavers, there could be a page on your website dedicated to this type of message.

Your readers could submit prices (with currency), locations, and shaver models to you, and you would post them on this page in a table-type format that is easy to read and scroll.

Here's my contribution: the Panasonic ES 8067 is sold at Best Buy for US$99.

Beards are the best

Manuel

Thanks for the suggestion, Manuel.   The idea you have is a good one. The "In Search Of..." message board for those finding hard to find items is gettng a lot of activity lately. I can set up another one for price comparisons.  I'll try Bravenet's web tools to create the new message board.  Thanks again.

From: Matthew Craig <matthewcraig@hotmail.com>

Date: Thursday, May 11, 2000 9:50 AM

I am a business traveler and I am in search of a compact shaving solution. I would like to find something convenient, but presentation is important to me so it must shave closely. I found the information on your page very informative, but I was wondering if any of your readers had any similar experience with travel shavers. Lugging around a wet blade an 10 oz. can of shaving cream gets tiring fast! Thanks for your help!

Matthew Craig

Thanks for your note, Matthew.  I believe you're asking about the small travel shavers which usually run on batteries.  I've seen some really small ones offered by Braun and Remington.  I'm assuming you're looking for one to put in your briefcase rather than the regular rechargeable shavers which tend to be bulky in a briefcase.  Because I usually use a standard rechargeable shaver when on the go, I don't have a ready answer.  If anyone can mention their experience with compact travel shavers, please let us know.

From: David & Sally <mulhern@mediaone.net>

Date: Tuesday, May 09, 2000 1:01 PM

Hi Gary! In response to Solyman Omar's question about the Braun Syncro availability: I too am interested in buying a 7500 series so I called Braun. They thought about 2 months until it is available. Anyone interested can check with them for an update from time to time at 1-800-272-8611. Also, the web-site is now working and for the first time has the Syncro description in English (not just in German). Hope this helps.

Thanks Gary!

David Mulhern

P.S. As a minor FYI -- it's apparently Syncro not Syncho.

Yes it does, David.  Thanks for the info and I'll look forward to when the Braun Syncro shavers become available in North America.

From: Solyman Omar

Date: Saturday, May 06, 2000 11:03 PM

I am interested in purchasing the Braun 7550 Syncro, but my local electric shaver shop says that he should get some around November. I have looked at numerous web-sites and have not found any reference to the 7000 series. When will this model hit the Los Angeles Area.

Thanks!!!

I want a closer shave!!!

Thanks for your note, Solyman.  A few days ago, I was able to see a revised Braun web site which mentioned the new Syncho shavers, but at this writing, their web site at http://www.braun.com is down.  I'm assuming that when the web site is back up that it will have plenty of info about the Syncho line of shavers.  From what you wrote, it looks as if it will be available in the USA this fall. When the Braun web site is back up, I should ask for more info about when this shaver will be available.  I hope this helps.

From: Andrew Levitt

Date: Friday, May 05, 2000 5:11 PM

Hi Gary,

I have been using a Norelco Quadra Action model 6885XL for about a week now and wanted to report that I am very pleased with it. Over the years I have tried the Norelco Reflex Action (not as close as the Quadra and a bit more irritating), the Braun Flex Integral (close shave but irritated my face), the Panasonic Linear (conformable, relatively close shave, but works best with shaving cream, which sort of defeats one of the purposes of using an electric shaver), and the Grundig Roltronic Pro (not a great shave and very expensive to boot), as well as a blade. The Quadra Action is the best of the lot, in my opinion. The shave was pretty close from day 1, and I anticipate it will get better as I move through the three-week adjustment period. Also, my dermatologist once told me that Norelcos were easier on the skin than other electric razors (I have extremely sensitive skin). I don't know if this is a commonly held opinion in the medical community, but I think this guy is a great doctor, so I thought I'd pass it along.

For whatever it's worth, I have two tips to offer Quadra Action users.

First, don't press down too hard. It will not result in a closer shave but will result in more irritation. Second, wash the face and let it dry completely before shaving. I used to shave with an electric before showering on the theory that my face would be drier, thus leading to a better shave. However, I think there is an advantage to washing the face first.

Thanks for maintaining this page.

You're welcome, Andrew and thanks for the tips to users of the Philishave/Norelco Quadra Action shavers.

From: Stephan Gilch <sgilch@hotmail.com>

Date: Friday, May 05, 2000 10:50 AM

Hi !

I just bought the BRAUN SYNCRO SYSTEM 7570, and I wanted to tell you that it's a GREAT product. The advertising says that it shaves closer and with less irritation - and it does. When I bought it I wasn't really sure if I wanted to spend that much money (esp. since I bought a Philishave some 18 months ago) but has definitely paid off. It really shaves incredibly close - the closest shave I ever had with a electric shaver (beats the Philishave by far). For the first time I am really satisfied with the closeness of an electric shaver. What's even better is that my skin (I have quite sensitive skin) looks better and less irritated. I'm just glad I bought it.

I've got two tips for people looking for the best electric shave:

1. Treat your skin well, i.e. use some cream once or twice a day - it will make your skin smooth and soft

2. Always move your razor against the grain and start with the neck - this will result in a much closer shave.

Thanks!

You're welcome, Stephan and thanks for your note.

From: Jim Groser

Date: Wednesday, May 03, 2000 4:12 PM

Hi there

I just bought a Braun Syncro with a cleaning machine!!!. I wonder if it is worth anything or just a way to make money on cleaning fluid?

And Im now charging it for the first time.

But I wonder if I did the right thing. Because most times I like to have my face look like 1-2 days unshaven. I have found no shaver that can shave close AND shave 1-2 mm.

Do you know any product that can do this?

Med venlig hilsen / Kind regards

Jim Groser

Thanks for your note, Jim.  The closest thing I can think of to what you're looking for is a combination shaver and beard trimmer which is the Braun Shave & Shape.  Because of my goatee, I use both a shaver (a Philishave) and a beard trimmer.  As for the Braun Syncho, the cleaning machine does look useful and I believe you're right about the cleaning fluid.  I hope this fluid will be easily available for a long time.  I have a separate electrosonic head cleaner which Philips Canada sold a few years ago.  The concentrated fluid which that cleaner uses is now hard to come by.  When I saw a store with a few bottles they were closing out last Summer, I bought them all! Philips' Norelco division in the USA also sold this cleaner and may still have bottles of fluid available.  I hope this helps.

From: Robert J. Garcia <Robert.Garcia@fm.ucsb.edu>

Date: Tuesday, May 02, 2000 6:45 PM

After using a blade for 15 years I decided to try an electric. I found your forum and used it for my research. I finally decided on a Panasonic Linear and boy, electric shaving has really changed! I use it wet, have had it for about a month, and cannot believe the close shaves I'm getting. It beats my razor. The tips on using it I got from the forum were really helpful

Many thanks!

You're welcome, Robert and thanks for your note.  I'm glad that the material in the Electric Shaver Page was useful to you.

From: Mark Fletcher <markfletcher@earthlink.net>

Date: Saturday, April 29, 2000 7:03 PM

A first look at the Braun syncro series:

I happened to be in Amsterdam (Netherlands) this week and had an opportunity to look at the new Braun Syncro series shavers. I specifically looked at the top of the line model 7570 which was selling for 359 Dutch Guilders (~ 160 US $) in the Amsterdam airport duty free shop. They claim on the box to give a 10% closer shave than the Flex Integral ultra speed line supposedly due to the vibrating head that gives an effective larger opening on the foil screen. I seriously debated on purchasing one until I examined the business end of the shaver (the foil & cutting head). They appeared to be identical to the Flex Integral 6550 which was also on display to allow for direct comparison (two foil cutters with a center "slot" cutter). The case of the unit was slightly more ergonomic than the Flex Integral series. The 7570 also came with a very large stand that allowed recharge and incorporated a cleaning mechanism that utilized replaceable cartridges of some kind of cleaning solution. The unit that I turned on made a fairly loud buzzing sound that seemed to be associated with the vibrating head unit. To me it did not seem enough of a change in cutting technology to warrant a purchase. I would be interested to hear comment from any european readers of the electric shaver page who have tried the syncros.

Mark Fletcher

Thanks for letting us know, Mark.  If anyone has tried the new Braun Syncho shaver, please let us know.

From: Wayne Solotoff <waynesol@rochester.rr.com>

Date: Wednesday, April 26, 2000 11:07 PM

Subject: TELL MR. STEEL BEARD

Andrew wrote that he found the best prices at http://www.electricshaver.com.

Just as a price comparison, the Norelco Quadra Action 6865xl is $149.95 at electricshaver.com, and $129.00 at BJ's. The Panasonic ES8067 is $159.95 at electricshaver.com and $122.00 at Walmart.

-Wayne Solotoff

Thanks for the tip, Wayne.  From your E-mail address, I understand that the prices you quote are from stores in the Rochester, New York area.  Of course, the prices may vary in other areas.  Thanks again.

From: Wayne Solotoff <waynesol@rochester.rr.com>

Date: Wednesday, April 26, 2000 11:00 PM

I found your dicussion thread very helpful in shopping for an electric shaver for the first time in 15 years. I've been shaving in the shower with manual Gillette Atra razors for years. I figured I'll try an electric razor again and see if it really is more convenient. I looked at the two most popular razors. First I purchased the Panasonic 8000 series and went through the facial break-in period. True, it did consistently give me a close shave, but not without more passes than a manual razor. I found that I had to use it in a circular motion to get the closest shave, and the screen razor is just not designed for that. Like you said in a previous comment, getting neck hairs on with a screen razor can be difficult. I found myself having to use the trimmer often to take a first crack at neck hairs before using the razor head. The Panasonic 8000 came with a leaflet suggesting you give wet shaving a try using shave cream. Are they for real?

What is the advantage? If I'm gonna use cream, I'll do it in the shower with a manual razor with a fog proof mirror in 1/4 the time and no cleanup. Also, the replacement parts for Panasonics aren't even sold by the stores that sell the razors. OK, so I returned the Panasonic and tried the Norelco Quadra Action 6000 series. It is lighter, ergonomically shaped, and the replacement heads are sold everywhere. It is designed for a circular motion. I found that it got the hair close to my notrils and on my neck much better then the Panasonic. I will keep this razor, though neither electric got me a shave as close as a blade. In conclusion, shaving with an electric in the morning when I get out of the shower is no more convenient than using a blade razor in the shower, especially when you are the type of person like me that takes a shower every morning. In my experience, the ONLY advantage of an electric is that you can do a quick touch up when you get home if you are going out later in the evening. If you are the type that likes to shave on the way to work while driving, I can see that a Norelco would do the job as well. If you need glasses to see what you are doing and must shave out of the shower, I can see how an electric might be less messy. But all in all, I don't see what all the fuss is about electric razors.

Wayne Solotoff

Thanks for your note, Wayne.  I can understand your "Confused Philosopher" style question on why Panasonic recommends using shaving cream with their shaver.  Isn't an electric shaver supposed to make the shaving process less messy?  As we all know, electric shavers were developed to make shaving more convenient, faster and with less blood shed.  Cultural and religious prohibitions on blade shaving make the scissor action of electric shavers very attractive as this is tantamount to trimming a beard with scissors.  Thanks again.

From: Andrew Levitt

Date: Monday, April 24, 2000 10:23 PM

Hi Gary,

I wanted to let your readers know that I have found the best prices for electric shavers at Electric Shaver Service of Lincoln, Nebraska, which is on the Web at www.electricshaver.com (that's the singular of "shaver" in the address). I've tried a few shavers, so this is based on more than one purchase. They also seem like nice people.

Thanks for letting us know, Andrew.

From: Thomas J. Kjolsing

Date: Saturday, April 22, 2000 1:39 PM

I have been using a hair/beard trimmer/clipper in lieu of a razor to obtain a "not-so-close" shave. Whereas, however, an electric razor provides TOO close a shave, trimming does not provide a shave that is close enough. Using a trimmer is also messier and more time consuming than using an electric razor. I have been looking for an electric razor that shaves not quite so close to the skin, but just above it, leaving about one or two days growth of hair.

So far, the only product I have found that even resembles what I am looking for is the "Wahl Custom Shave System 5000." I have only ever seen it advertised and have not used it, so I cannot say how well it performs. It does, however, seem to be a step in the right direction because it's the ONLY razor that does NOT claim to provide the "closest shave available."

Please provide any input that might assist me in my search.

Thank you.

Thanks for your note, Thomas.  Very few people have E-mailed me over the years mentioning their experience with Wahl shavers.  The recent survey page results showed no mention of Wahl.  I ask survey page users to E-mail me with non-listed shaver brands they want me to include.  The one comments about a Wahl shaver which sticks in my mind is that the foil stained his face.  I hope it's an isolated case and that Wahl corrected this problem.  With Wahl shavers offering a selection of foil surfaces for their shavers, it does look promising.  I encourage anyone wants to post comments, both good and bad about Wahl shavers to do it on this forum.

From: David & Sally <mulhern@mediaone.net>

Date: Thursday, April 20, 2000 9:30 AM

Hello Gary, Just a quick note to ask about the new Braun Syncro. I checked out the German-language version of the Braun web-site (I speak no German, so the pictures were the info I got), and I couldn't really see the difference from the 6000 series ultra-speeds. So my question is: what is the big deal about the reciprocating cutting bar between the two heads? How is it any different from what Braun already offers?

And, as you point out, they also offer it in the Inter-Face, and (I think) in the Flex Integral.

How is this anything other than slick new packaging of the same old concept?

Thanks as always for your assitance. Best regards, David Mulhern

Thanks for your note, David.  I don't believe the Flex Integral has the slotted head.  The InterFace has one slotted head and one foil head.  The new Syncho has two foil surfaces with a slotted head surface in the middle.  What's unique about this shaver is its ergonomic design, the first time I've seen an ergonomic shape on a Braun shaver.  If I recall, another unique feature on the Syncho is that the entire head assembly reciprocates as well as the cutters inside the heads.  Please correct me if I'm wrong.

From: RZ <rz@unforgettable.com>

Date: Monday, April 17, 2000 1:23 AM

Well, hopefully this won't be too lengthy but I thought I'd update on my experience with the Panasonic 8066 and get some advice on my next attempt. I had tried this Panasonic shaver and after the initial ordeal of getting used to an electric from a razor I was actually quite happy with it. Definitely a decent shave. Not quite as good for me as shaving against the grain with a razor (I doubt any electric will ever get that close) but closer than shaving with the grain with a razor. (Despite what some claim, I've never been able to get a close shave with a razor following the grain. Perhaps this only works on some beard types. I have a pretty full, coarse beard.) My problem with the Panasonic, however, was that I just could not get a decent shave on the neck. As far as I can tell this is probably due to the fact that my hair just grows too parallel to the skin and rather than entering the foil holes just gets pressed against the skin by the foil instead, rendering the shaver useless. I did try using the trimmer to cut them down first but this didn't help. What I did find worked was to place my fingers a couple of centimetres apart and pinch them together, drawing the skin in between into a tight fold. This would cause the hairs to stick up at the end of the fold and I could shave those hairs. However as this required a fair bit of contortion to get the shaver between my fingers and was very laborious, I decided against it. Incidentally, when I e-mail Panasonic I was told there was a 30 day quality guarantee and that I would be able to return it to the store where I had purchased it. I did, in fact, manage to do this but it took a great deal of doing and a rather upset clerk so I don't want to do to again. The next shaver I buy I'll keep unless there is a clear return policy at the store.

I've had a beard or goatee for the last 10 years and only shaved it off a couple of months ago and still have not been able to get a comfortable close shave with a razor. After slicing another piece of my nose off I decided I want to try an electric again but need one that can handle the type of hair growth I have on my neck. What can anyone tell me about a good shaver for this? Panasonic has one called the ES882S which has something called "lift strips". What exactly are these and would they actually help?

Otherwise I'm wondering if a rotary shaver would work better. I'd like a waterproof version for easier cleaning so the ones I'm looking at are the Philishave Quadra Action 6000 series or the Coolskin series. I'm wondering how close a shave they give compared to the Panasonic linear shavers and also if there is any significant difference between the Quadra Action 6000 and the Coolskin for a DRY shave? I don't know if the Nivia lotion for the Coolskin helps much, but if it's dry shave is the same as the Quadra Action then it wouldn't matter... I did have a Philishave 3 headed lift and cut shaver about 7 years ago. I have no idea off hand what the model was. It cost me about Ca$70 at the time so was probably one of the lower end ones. I abandoned it in favour of razors as I was never able to use it without getting major facial irritation. My skin is fairly sensitive. Should I expect the same from the Philishave shavers I've mentioned above, or have they gotten considerably better over the intervening years? I found once I got used to it, the Panasonic didn't give me considerably more irritation than a razor.

Well, so much for being brief. Feel free to edit it down if you wish. Any suggestions on these shavers would be appreciated. I'll write my impressions when I get one.

Thanks,

Ric

Thanks for your note, Ric.  While I haven't received comments yet about the "lift strips" on the Panasonic ES882S shaver, it's supposed to lift the whiskers up before cutting.  As we all know, foil shavers have trouble cutting long whiskers which include whiskers when tend to lay flat.  Rotary shavers, such as the Philishave/Norelco models, have slots on the heads to catch longer whiskers.  Their Quadra Action shavers are two-thirds slots for longer whiskers and one-third holes for shorter whiskers.  While the Quadra Action shavers are waterproof for easier cleaning, I am told by Philips that they are designed for dry shaving only as they do not do a good job at wet shaving.  The Philishave Cool Skin (called Norelco Advantage in the USA) is the only line of shavers Philips markets as a wet/dry shaver.  The Nivea lotion does help, and there are those who tried similar lotions in lieu of the Nivea For Men cartridges who seem happy with the results. Slotted head shavers with reciprocating cutters are also good at cutting long whiskers, but generally do not shave as close as foil shavers.  Braun is using the best of both worlds with their InterFace and the new Syncho model which both have foil and slotted head surfaces.  At this writing, theSyncho is shown only on their German language web site, but the pictures can be understood in any language. Based on the recent Survey Page results, I would give the edge to the Philishave Quadra Action which was favoured by 57% of those responding as opposed to 18% for the Cool Skin which was the second favourite.  I hope this helps.

From: <j.schiferli@philips.com>

Date: Wednesday, April 12, 2000 8:13 AM

In the e-mail of Mr. Ed I of April 5, 2000 he advised to use the Vollco Shaver Sharpener for sharpening the cutters of all Norelco and Philishave shavers. This is an absolutely wrong advise taken over from the Vollco web-site. And Vollco knows it is wrong.

The Reflex Action, Quadra Action and Advantage or Cool Skin shaving systems of Philishave/Norelco have cutters with curved knives. They run on the inside of a torus. When sharpened with the Vollco sharpener the profile is lost (Vollco sharpens in a flat plane and the knives will hook behind the lamellae of the shaving heads. Shaving heads and cutters can be destroyed completely.

Further about the Vollco sharpener. When you sharpen a pair of scissors are you sharpening only one leg? Certainly not,, but that's what Vollco does, only the cutter not the head. In our factory cutters and heads are carefully grinded as a pair for optimal cutting, this match is completely destroyed by Vollco. In the beginning you might get some improvement from the sharpened cutter, but that will go away very fast ending up in a worse situation as before. Although we realise that a sharpener is attractive related to the costs of new heads, we strongly advise not to use the Vollco Shaver Sharpener.

Regards, Jos Schiferli

===================================================

J.W. Schiferli

Philips Domestic Appliances and Personal Care B.V.

BU Male Shaving & Grooming

Europaweg 8

9723 AS Groningen

The Netherlands

tel: +31 50 319.2074 fax: +31 50 319.2473

e-mail: J.Schiferli@philips.com

Thanks for your note, Mr. Schiferli.  This note shows that the electric shaver companies do follow the Tell Mr. Steel Beard postings.  Thanks again.

From: Gurpreet Dhillon <g.dhillon@utoronto.ca>

Date: Sunday, April 09, 2000 6:15 PM

Hello Gary,

I need some help with Philips Shavers. I am not interested much in led indicators and lcd displays etc. What do you think is a better deal - HQ6845 for $214.98 CDN. or HQ6825 for $172.57 CDN.

Thanks for all the info.

Gurpreet.

Thanks for your question Gurpheet.  The obvious differences I noticed between the two Philishave Quadra Action shavers you mentioned are that the HQ6845 has a sand brown colour and two LED indicators:  one indicating full charge/battery charging and the other indicating the battery is low; while the HQ6825 has a demin blue colour and has no low battery LED, just the full charge/battery charging LED.  While both models include a storage/travel pouch, the Philips brochure I have indicates that the one for the HQ6845 is a more deluxe one.  Since you mentioned no interest in recharging LEDs, then the HQ6825 seems to be for you  I hope this helps.

From: Ed I.

Date: Wednesday, April 05, 2000 11:28 AM

Gary,

I wanted to thank you and your contributors for all the great info. I also have some info of my own to share.

I thought your readers might like to know what Panasonic had to say when I called them today about their linear models. The ES882S and the ES883S are discontinued models replaced by the new ES8068N, ES8067S and ES8066K. According to the representative the only differences between the old and new models are basically styling and motor speed. I hope this helps clear up the confusion!

For those of you with Philishave/Norelco 15 blade rotary shavers, you should all buy the Vollco Shaver Sharpening Heads. You can find information about them at www.vollco.com and www.giantsavings.com sells them for $12.00. I have had a Norelco Advantage since it first came out. It was the first electric I have ever had and I have been very happy with it but I was upset that new foils and blades cost $35 per set! I know they claim that the blades are self sharpening but I have found that the blades seem to get dull over time resulting in more irritation because you have to press harder and use more passes to get the job done. While searching for the best price on new heads I happened upon the Vollco Shaver Sharpening Heads which sounded interesting, so I bought them and I have been extremely impressed. About once every week or two I run the blades in the Vollco for about 10 seconds and they come out like new! I'm sure Norelco isn't happy about this but I sure am. The only thing to be careful about is keeping the blades and screens together as a set. Norelco says this is important but, frankly, I have dropped them out a number of times and mixed them up and I have never noticed any difference. By the way, I am still using the original heads that came with the Advantage and they are as sharp as new.

Regards,

Ed

Thanks for the useful info about ther Panasonic models, Ed.  I tried the Vollco shaver sharpener when they first came out with two Philishave shavers, an HS555 3-head Rota Action shaver and the first Lift & Cut model Philips put out, the HP1601 (which you may have seen elsewhere on the Electric Shaver Page's history links) which had Micro Action heads which were very noisy.  I was happy with the way the sharpeners worked with the Rota Action heads without the Lift & Cut blades.  But the noisy Micro Action heads were still noisy so I still had to replace them.  Thanks again.

From: Alma and Marc Lang

Date: Saturday, April 01, 2000 9:11 PM

Hello Gary,

I thought that maybe some of your readers who are looking for Panasonic shavers should look at www.jandr.com. They carry the 8068N for US$140, which is probably the lowest price I've seen for this model. It is, by the way, one of your links (the music store).

Marc

Thanks for the tip, Marc.

From: <EasTCoaSTGuJu@aol.com>

Date: Thursday, March 30, 2000 4:44 PM

I am interested in purchasing a Panasonic Linear Electric Razor. Ive seen on Epinions.com that the Panasonic Linear ES883S is selling for $300 while the Panasonic Linear ES8068N is selling for $180. It also shaves at 13,000 rpm while the ES883S shaves at 12,000 rpm. I always thought that the Linear ES8068N was the most current model. Which model is the best and most current model? Price is not an issue. Thanks.

Frisco

Thanks for your question.  Panasonic's model numbering can be rather confusing as an E-mail I've just received pointed out.  It stated that the ES803E marketed by The Sharper Image is widely available in Canada at around C$300 which is around US$200.  It's a slightly upscale version from the ES8068N with differences in colour and head design.  The ES8068N is all metal and the ES803E is mainly plastic.  There are other minor differences.  You mentioned that the ES883S operates at 12,000 RPM while the aforementioned ES803E is rated at 13,000 RPM.  I think I'm now more confused than you are.  I guess we should E-mail Panasonic asking them to streamline their model lines.  Their main rivals, Philips, Braun and Remington have clearly delinated model lines which consumers can better understand.  As for my immediate opinion, I'd go with the lower priced ES8068N.  I hope this helps.

From: Gurpreet Dhillon <g.dhillon@utoronto.ca>

Date: Wednesday, March 29, 2000 6:18 PM

I have tried both foil and rotary shavers in the past but I can't get desired shave on the neckline, even though on the face the results are excellent.

Rotary(Reflex Action Philips) is better than foil shaver but redness still persists. I regularly clean the heads as well.

1) Is this a common problems?

2) Is there a "particular method" of shaving the neckline?

Thanks for all the help. Your forum is very informative

G.Dhillon

Thanks for your note, Gurpreet.  Does your whiskers lie flat on your neck?  It is a common problem which is caused by trying to get all the whiskers in many passes.  The fewer passes you make, the less redness.  Try stretching the face to make the whiskers stand up better.  There are pre-shave lotions which also help straighten whiskers.  I hope this helps.

From: Andrew Quint <quint38@home.com>

Date: Wednesday, March 29, 2000 1:03 AM

I have never used an electric shaver. Can you refer me to a web site or other source that will tell me what to look for in an electric shaver?

What features do they offer? How do I compare them? Specifically, I want one that shaves close, especially my mustache area, and is easy to maintain. Thanks.

Thanks for your note, Andrew.  While there are comparison pages, which I put in the "other" section of the Electric Shaver Page, I have found them to be lacking something.  I have yet to find a truly subjective product comparison web site.  Of course, the shaver company web sites do show what the differences are within their product lines.  I found that, within each product line, the main differences are with the recharging bells and whistles.  Foil shavers have traditionally been easier to maintain.  The newer waterproof rotary shavers allow for cleaning under the faucet which helps to minimize the main disadvantage of rotary shavers which is the tedious cleaning regimen with the different parts, making sure that the combs and cutters stay matched.  I assume that you have a moustache?  With my beard, I use a separate beard trimmer (also good for moustaches) to maintain the shape of my beard.  Of course, if anyone else has any ideas, please let us know.  I hope this helps.

From: Dan Moser <djmoser@adamswells.com>

Date: Sunday, March 19, 2000 7:13 PM

Subject: TELL MR. STEEL BEARD

What is the best shaver to own with the following 3 requirements

1. Fast

2. Very good at cutting long stray whiskers.

3. Not expensive to maintain.

Note: Not important

1. DOES NOT HAVE TO SHAVE THE CLOSEST

2 DOES NOT HAVE TO BE BATTERY POWERED

Thanks for your question, Dan.  The debate as to the best shaver can go on forever.  I hope you've been following the survey pages as well as this forum.  Everyone knows my personal preference is one of the Philishave/Norelco Reflex Action shavers.  Mine gives me a very quick shave.  The new Philishave/Norelco Quadra Action shavers are getting higher marks in the survey pages currently.  The Quadra Action line is waterproof for easier cleaning.  Otherwise, some people find maintaining rotary shavers to be a chore.  But they are sturdier than foil shavers which can make maintaining them less expensive.  Rotary shavers are better at shaving long whiskers as well.  If you want a corded version of either one of these shavers, they are not available in the USA, but they are available in Canada.  (Good thing there are on-line shaver shops in Canada.)  If other people have their own opinions, please let me know.  I hope this helps.

From: Bob Hamilton <hamilton@lava.net>

Date: Sunday, March 19, 2000 2:11 AM

Dear Mr. Steel Beard,

I am interested in trying one of Panasonic's linear shavers, but I am having trouble getting concrete information about the differences, if any, between two models. I have shopped around a bit, both in stores and on the Web. The Sharper Image® offers what they call the Panasonic® Linear Float Shaver, catalog no. PA803, for $249.95. Upon closer examination it bears the Panasonic model number ES803F and is "manufactured exclusively for The Sharper Image®". Elsewhere a top-of-the-line Panasonic model seems to be the ES8068N with a MSRP of $199.99, which can be bought discounted to $169.99 if not lower. Is the Sharper Image model actually different in any functional way, or is it merely a cosmetically redressed and rebadged ES8068N? Information in the Sharper Image advertising copy reads in part: "outer edge is angled a sharper 45º and the ultra-hard stainless foil is thinner. Twin-gate slit blades introduce 156% more hairs." Is this meant to be in contrast to other Panasonic models or in contrast to shavers by other manufacturers? The information I have been able to find about the ES8068N would seem to indicate that, in comparison to the model offered by Sharper Image, it has very similar features (13,000 RPM, triple head, induction charging, etc.). The advertising copy speaks of a "Fine Cut Inner Blade (60 degree angle)", but it is not clear whether or not this is referring to the same thing as the Sharper Image model's "outer edge angled a sharper 45º." Can you shed any light on this matter?

Thanks,

Bob Hamilton

hamilton@lava.net

Thanks for your question, Bob.  Within each product line, the main differences are cosmetic and the recharging bells and whistles.  The main difference between the 8000 series shavers and the 800 series shavers is the motor speed.  The 8000 shavers' motor is rated at 13,000 RPM and the 800 shavers' motor is rated at 12,000 RPM.  I hope this helps.

From: Chuck Littig <crl@execpc.com>

Date: Thursday, March 16, 2000 2:32 PM

Mr. Steel Beard,

I wrote you last December about my experience changing to an electric after 35 years of shaving with a blade. The first electric I tried was the Norelco Advantage. Boy had shaving with an electric changed! The Advantage gave a good shave and I particularly liked the fact that it was wet/dry, easy to clean and gave comfortable shave. After 8 weeks with the Advantage I decided to try the Panasonic Linear 8067. I liked Panasonic Linear even more because it shaved even closer than the Advantage with nivea lotion and like the Advantage it was wet/dry. The linear motor in the Panasonic is very impressive as it delivers a lot of power without slowing down resulting in fast close shaves.

Now after about 3 months with the Pan Linear 8067 I am even happier. After an 8 week or so "break in" period my face continues to adjust to the electric and I continue to learn to shave with it. As a result my shaves are getting even faster and closer. I am happy because now I get shaves as close as a blade with no mess and greater convenience.

Chuck Littig

Thanks for the update, Chuck.

From: Peter Bendheim

Date: Monday, March 13, 2000 5:00 AM

All this myth about the Philips Coolshave - hard to clean, tricky maintenance, etc...such a load of nonsense. I think this is the best shaver I have ever used, by far. It beats the hell out of my Braun which has now ended up on a garage sale.

Maintenance is so easy, a jolly good washing down under warm water which takes about a minute, a quick shake off and back in the charger base. And it is SO much cleaner and less greasy than cleaning a dry shaver - no brushes to fiddle with or degreasers, etc. It always feels like new every time you use it - because it has been freshly washed. TIP - don't close the unit or put the cover on when it is in the charging base if your base is in a safe place - it dries out really nicely on it's own.

The shave is CLOSER than I could ever get with a blade. I don't use the Nivea cartridges - I use a non-foaming shaving gel from Australia directly on my face that is cheap and works just fine.

I couldn't endorse a product more than the Coolshave. This is a shaving revolution !!!

Kind regards

Peter Bendheim

Thanks for your note giving your favourable opinion of Philips' Coolskin shaver.  Can you let us know more about the shaving gel you mentioned?  I hope it's available outside Australia.  For those in the USA, the Philishave Coolskin is sold there as the Norelco Advantage.  Thanks again, Peter.

From: Gary A. Emenitove <Gary@TheJoneses.com>

Date: Tuesday, March 07, 2000 1:08 PM

Hi Gary, this is Gary!

Just found your electric shaver web site. Just what I need! I have a question, which I presume has already been addressed in one form or another.

I have been using Norelco/Philips products for years. My current shaver is a reflex action 5885XL. I've had it about 3 years. I have a very heavy beard and shaving is (and always has been) quite an ordeal for me. I go over one area, over and over, before it is sufficiently shaved.

Considering the shaver that I use, is there a consensus on an "upgrade" model -- either by Norelco/Philips or another company -- that would improve my shaving experience and results? The only thing I insist on is staying with an electric shaver. Or, alternately, can you recommend tips to improve the shaver I already have (including correcting "operator error"!)

Thanks.

Gary Emenitove

Thanks for your note, Gary.  The new survey page has proved to be very helpful.  The current questions ask about favorite shavers broken down by brand and model.  The upgrade shaver Philips offers is one of the Philishave/Norelco Quadra Action shavers.  The main feature of the Quadra Action shavers is holes to shave short whiskers as well as the slots for the longer whiskers.  Philips' main rival in terms of best shaver popularity is Panasonic and their BIG winner is the Linear 8000 series of shavers.  The claim to fame with these shavers is a much faster motor which may be of help to you.  I hope this helps.

From: Susan Yeager/Brien Zimmermann <brisue@earthlink.net>

Date: Thursday, March 02, 2000 6:10 AM

Hi. Just found your web page but it does not deal with the research I have recently undertaken. I like to shave my head and have been using a straight edge razor which takes a lot of time and sometimes, a lot of cuts.

I would like to switch to an electric razor but don't know which one would be best suited for this situation. Any suggestions?

Thanks

Baldy.

Thanks for your note.  My obvious suggestion would be one of the Philishave/Norelco shavers with the Reflex Action heads which follow the contours of the face (and head) in a three dimensional manner.  Besides the Reflex Action shavers, the newer high-end Quadra Action shavers and the wet/dry Philishave Cool Skin and Norelco Advantage shavers have the same contour-following shaving action.  I hope this helps.

From: <Gman708imp@aol.com>

Sent: Wednesday, February 16, 2000 11:36 PM

Subject: BEST SHAVER

The best electric razor I have tried is the grundig 8835. I found no problem converting from blade, no irritations at all. First shave was as close as a blade. The only problem area is the neck, but had same problem with blade to. But overall this shaver is the best and closet shaver I have tried, and I have tried them all. It may be expensive but worth it.

Frank

Thanks for your note, Frank.

From: Matt Madison <legendmc@jps.net>

Date: Wednesday, February 16, 2000 1:57 AM

I just thought that I write and tell you that I used your page to help in the selection of an electric shaver. I had a Norelco over 10 years ago and switched to a Braun when the Norelco failed. Recently the Braun battery started to go bad, so I thought I would buy another. I checked the prices on the Panasonic Linears and decided that it was a little pricey for my blood.

Last week I bought a Norelco Quadra 6886XL at a local Costco for $136.00! It seemed like a great deal, so I bought it. It is GREAT! It shaves much closer than my Braun did and takes less time. I would definitely give it a two thumbs-up!

Although, I do have a question. I was unable to find any information on the Quadra 6886XL. I was only able to find a 6885XL. Is the 6886 an upgrade that hasn't made the literature yet? Or is it a model that gets shipped to warehouse stores etc.? The Norelco manual has both numbers on it and they are identical. Are there any differences?

Thank you.

And I thank you for your comments and questions, Matt.  From my experience with warehouse clubs like Costco, this looks like a model exclusive to Costco.  Did it come in an oversized box, possibly with a cleaning solution included?  If you compare your model with the Philishave and Norelco models I have links to at http://iavbbs.com/gflinn/phshavrs.htm, you may notice that there is no HQ6886 or 6886XL shaver on that list.  You mentioned that the 6886 is identical to the 6885.  I'm curious about the 6886 being an even-numbered model.  Typically on Philishave and Norelco shavers, the even-numbered rechargeable models have NiMH batteries and the odd-numbered models common in North America have NiCad batteries.  What batteries are in your shaver?  I'm glad that the Electric Shaver Page was useful in deciding your choice of shaver.

NOTE FROM MR. STEEL BEARD:  Mr. Madison replied with the following:

Gary,

According to my manual, the 6886 and the 6885 are identical. The manual also says that it has NiCad batteries. In looking at the 6885 on your linked page, my 6886 looks exactly like the 6885. Also, no cleaning solution in the box, but, it did come with the cigarette lighter charger cord. The shaver itself says 6886XL.

Thanks again to you and your page for help in purchasing an electric shaver!

Matt

You're welcome, Matt and thanks again.

From: R A Barrow <skeezix@epix.net>

Date: Saturday, February 05, 2000 9:55 AM

Gary,

I just received a Sharper Image catalog and saw a full-page ad for their Dynablade TurboGrip "turn your blade razor into an electric shaver" thingie. Has anybody tried this? In the world of shavers, is this a hybrid? Here's the URL (This is not an endorsement) with details:

http://www.sharperimage.com/ProductDisplay.jsp?name=SI605

Rick

Thanks for the tip, Rick.  This version of an "electric razor" is not a new idea.  This is an electrically-aided blade razor which is unlike the electric shavers we usually talk about here which operate on the "scissor" principle.  If you look at the history links, there are examples of old vibrator type electric razors such as the 1930 vintage Electro-Shave which Phil Krumholz sent me pictures of.  The history pages elsewhere in the Electric Shaver Page do show these photos.  If anyone has tried this type of razor, please let us know.

From: Olivares Juan <Juan.Olivares@Columbia.net>

Date: Tuesday, February 01, 2000 12:46 PM

I have been a loyal blade shaver all my life. I'm researching the possibility of purchasing an electric shaver. Any suggestions?

Thanks for your note, Juan.  The preference for a particular shaver can be very subjective.  The Tell Mr. Steel Beard postings have some very good ideas.  Lately, two product lines of shavers are getting the notices.  The top one lately is one of the Panasonic Sonic 8000 series of foil shavers.  For those who prefer a rotary shaver, one of the Philishave/Norelco Quadra Action models.  Another place to look for ideas is the new survey page which includes questions on the best and worst shaver brand.  Click here to see the Survey Page.  At this early stage of voting, Panasonic is the #1 favourite and I believe they are referring to the 8000 series here.  The worst shaver at this writing is one of the Philishave/Norelco models which I believe are from those who either used a low end Lift & Cut model with Micro Action heads which don't have a closeness/comfort adjustment (they should use Double Action heads but Norelco in the USA does not offer the HQ3 heads they require) or have skin which is so sensitive that they even have problems with the high end models.  Keep checking the survey page for updates.  I do plan after February to include best and worst shaver questions which ask about a brand's product line.  I hope this helps.

From: Steve Dene

To: Gary Flinn <gflinn@iavbbs.com>

Date: Tuesday, February 01, 2000 4:58 AM

Subject: More Linear Drive Panasonic Tips

Dear Mr Steelbeard

Neck hairs are often long and curled close to the skin, maing it hard for them to poke through the foil and be cut. The solution is to use the trimmer on the neck area, to mow the longer hairs down to a stubble. Then go over the area again with the main head.

The same thing works if you have a week's beard -- trim it first, then close shave.

I know this sounds obvious, but it took me a while to figure out!

The three golden rules of Linear Drive:

1. Fast and .very. light strokes

2. Use the trimmer for neck or long stubble

3. Fast and .very. light stokes!

/hope that helps

Steve Dene

London

I'm sure it will, Steve.  Thanks for the update.

From: David Enzel <dhenzel@worldnet.att.net>

Date: Wednesday, January 26, 2000 1:35 PM

Subject: FW: Panasonic 8068

Gary,

I thought you might want to include the attached information from Panasonic on your web page as others may find it useful.

DAVID

NOTE FROM MR. STEEL BEARD:  The following e-mail was received by Mr. Enzel from Panasonic:

> -----Original Message-----

> From: Manno, Jennifer [mailto:MannoJ@panasonic.com]

> Sent: Wednesday, January 26, 2000 9:34 AM

> To: 'David Enzel'

> Subject: RE: Panasonic 8068

> Thank you for your inquiry. I am pleased that you are happy with your new purchase. The Panasonic shavers can never overcharge. Therefore, you can leave the shaver in the charger all the time and it will not wear down the battery or overcharge the shaver.

> Thank you for your patronage and enjoy your shaver.

> Panasonic Personal Products Company

NOTE FROM MR. STEEL BEARD:  The following is the original e-mail Mr. Enzel sent to Panasonic:

> -----Original Message-----

> From: David Enzel [mailto:dhenzel@worldnet.att.net]

> Sent: Tuesday, January 25, 2000 10:24 PM

> To: MannoJ@panasonic.com

> Subject: Pansonic 8068

> I saw your e-mail on the Electric Shaver Page. I recently purchased a Panasonic 8068 and I love it so far. It gives the closest and most comfortable shave I have ever had - and I have a very heavy beard. I have one question about charging the shaver. Should I leave it plugged in all the time or let the battery run down to 20% and recharge. I am concerned there will be memory loss if I recharge after each shave.

> DAVID ENZEL

Thanks for sharing this information with us, David.

From: Robert J. Orsino <rorsino@mail.borg.com>

Date: Sunday, January 23, 2000 10:10 PM

In a letter on January 20th, Ric was looking for some advice on shaving the neck hairs with his Panasonic 8066. I've had a similar experience in getting used to using the same shaver. I've found that I get a slightly closer shave when I shave wet, but the redness and irritation is greater. Perhaps I tend to press a little harder when shaving wet. However, for some reason I get less irritation and shave the neck hairs closer when I shave dry. I usually use a pre-shave such as Mennen Afta. After the shave I use a little Saxon after shave cream and that usually eliminates the redness. For me the difference between the wet and dry shave is minimal. I hope this helps.

I'm sure it will, Robert.  Thanks for the tip.

From: R A Barrow <skeezix@epix.net>

Date: Thursday, January 20, 2000 11:12 PM

Gary,

You've got Panasonic's ear:

NOTE FROM MR. STEEL BEARD:  The follow e-mail was received by Mr. Barrow:

> ----- Original Message -----

> From: Manno, Jennifer <MannoJ@panasonic.com>

> To: <skeezix@epix.net>

> Sent: Thursday, January 20, 2000 10:13 AM

> Subject: RE: mshavers

> > Thank you for your inquiry. I appreciate your honesty and am glad that Panasonic is able to fill your shaving needs. Thank you for the link to the website. I found the information that was written there very interesting and would like to inform our factories on ways to improve our shavers based on consumer's reactions.

> > In response to your questions, we recommend that you replace the outer foil every year and the inner blade every two years to maintain the shaver's performance. Our shavers typically last for a period of about 6-8 years and do not require any additional maintenance. It is completely up to you if you would like to purchase an extra shaver in case something goes wrong with your current shaver. Panasonic does, however have Authorized Service Centers that take a short amount of time to do any repairs necessary on the shaver. For any additional information, please contact our customer service center at 1-800-338-0552.

> > Thank you for your patronage and best of luck to you.

> > Panasonic Personal Products Company

NOTE FROM MR. STEEL BEARD:  The following is the original e-mail Mr. Barrow sent to Panasonic:

> > -----Original Message-----

> > From: skeezix@epix.net [mailto:skeezix@epix.net]

> > Sent: Saturday, January 15, 2000 1:59 PM

> > To: mannoj@panasonic.com

> > Subject: mshavers

> >Rick Barrow

> >Comments=Dear Friends,

> > I wrote to you before about your men's shavers' reliability, but you ignored my letter. In my experience over a period of only four years several Linear and non-Linear products have failed. I have replaced them because a shaver is an every-day device, one which a person cannot wait to have repaired. I know that reliability is an issue because many people share their experiences on the following Web site:

> > http://pages.prodigy.net/gflinn/TELL.HTM

> > Now, my ES8065 is failing and I replaced it with an older ES882. I and many other men agree that the Linears give the best shaves of any product on the market. How long are they supposed to work before they require maintenance or replacement? Does your company expect customers to purchase spare shavers in case one needs maintenance?

> > Thank you.

Thanks for the update, Rick.  The above letter is proof that at least one shaver company listens to the consumers and that the Tell Mr. Steel Beard page is being read by some of the shaver companies.  Besides Panasonic, Remington also alerted me saying that they follow the Tell Mr. Steel Beard postings.  You may have noticed that some of your suggestions for questions in my Survey Page which is under construction are now up and I plan on eventually adding more questions.  If anyone reading this has already answered the questions posted earlier, please return to the survey page to answer the new questions.  Thanks again, Rick.

From: RZ <rz@unforgettable.com>

Date: Thursday, January 20, 2000 12:26 AM

I decided to try electric shaving for the first time in about 8 years. My beard grows fairly thickly and my skin is rather sensitive. It took me a long time to find a shaving method that would give me a close shave without turning my face and neck into a big rash. I actually shave with a blade twice: first quickly with the grain of the beard, top off the skin with more gel to keep it lubricated and soft, then back in the opposite direction against the grain. This works well for me, but I find I can shave at most every other day. If I try to shave two successive days my skin gets raw and I often get a rash, especially around the neck.

I saw the Panasonic wet/dry shaver ads and thought it might be worth a try seeing as the foil separating my skin from the blades might make it less rough on my skin and perhaps let me shave daily (or at least when desired without having to worry about getting a rash). I liked this one because I could use foam with it, which I thought would help ease my transition to electric, since from what I've read and been told it takes about 3 weeks to adjust to it.

I picked up a Panasonic ES8066 Sonic, Linear shaver last week and tried it out. My first experience with it was bad. I found it didn't shave very well and I had to run it over my skin repeatedly before getting a decently close shave and it did particularly poorly on my neck. In fact in largely refused to remove the whiskers there until I went over and over it, having to add more shaving cream as my skin was already becoming sore. In the end I got a less than close shave on my neck and large, red streaks on my neck which have not fully disappeared yet. Actually, the first time I used it it made my neck bleed.

After a couple of days I tried it again. I used less pressure and tried it dry this time. It performed better and I got a reasonably close shave on parts of my face, particularly my cheeks, but it again failed to closely shave my neck. What was worst is it would shave patches of my neck reasonably closely, but leave certain small patches virtually unshaved, so I'd have these isolates tufts of long whiskers. What was most disturbing is that repeated attempts to shave off those whiskers, simply failed. I went back and forth and tried coming at them from every conceivable angle, but the shaver refused to cut them.

I've tried it several times since and as I get used to the shaver I find it's quicker to a get a decent shave, but the problem with it completely missing whiskers on my neck persists. I've had no choice but to shave my neck with a blade after a few days as the tufts of hair look rather ridiculous. Both shaving every day or after a couple of days, I have the same problem.

I'd be interested in hearing if others have had the same type of problem with this shaver. I'm starting to think this particular unit may be defective, but I don't have much experience with these machines. I'll be rather disappointed if I can't get a decent shave with this thing, seeing as what I paid for it would keep my stocked with fresh blades for about 2 years.

Any comments or tips would be greatly appreciated,

Ric

Thanks for your note, Rick.  From my previous correspondence over time, I realized that foil shavers have trouble shaving the neck area.  Rotary shavers (Philishave/Norelco) do better in shaving the neck area.  If anyone, particularly foil shaver users, have ideas in how to shave the neck area better, please let us know.

From: <AkaSpud@aol.com>

Date: Wednesday, January 19, 2000 4:29 AM

Hey Gary --

This forum has been very helpful at exploring all aspects of shavers, save for one -- shavers for women. I was thinking of buying one for my girlfriend, but am not sure where to start. I'm a dedicated Panasonic user, but are they as good for women? So far, the only female shavers I've found are the Panasonics and Remingtons, and both are wet/drys. Do you have any insights? I've got one to start with -- from what I can tell, shavers for women are a heck of a lot cheaper than those for men.

Scott

Thanks for your note, Scott.  The hair on women's legs are easier to cut than other body hair so the motor does not need to be as powerful.  This explains why women's shavers are smaller than men's shavers.  A third major women's shaver brand is Philips and I see them widely in stores too along with the Remington and Panasonic ones.  Many women's shavers have adjustments and/or an alternate foil so that it also works with underarms and bikini lines when using the underarms setting.  If there are any women who can give suggestions on which women's shaver is better, please let us know.  I've received e-mail from women who shave with a "men's shaver" are are happy with the results.  I do plan on adding questions for women on the Survey Page.  I hope this helps.

From: Douglas B Bernart <Douglas.B.Bernart@USA.dupont.com>

Date: Tuesday, January 18, 2000 1:31 PM

Here a tip for anyone looking for specific information in your forum. Most browsers have a FIND function. By either doing an Edit, Find on the Menu bar (or by just hitting CTRL-F, you can enter a specific phrase like "Panasonic" and then hit Enter. This way you can zoom to the information that most interests you without having to read the entire forum.

Hope some of your readers find that tip helpful.

I'm sure it will.  Thanks for the tip, Douglas.

From: D.K.

Date: Monday, January 17, 2000 3:31 AM

Hi,

Given your helpful site, if anyone can answer my unique question, perhaps you can. Though I might be very alone in this opinion, I am personally much happier with my looks a couple days after a close shave than I am when my skin is baby smooth. Are there any electric shavers out there that will NOT give me a close shave, but can be adjusted to leave light stubble?

Sandpaper

Thanks for your question.  There are beard trimmers which leave a very short stubble of 1.5mm as I am reading in my Philishave product brochure.  They are also available as Norelco in the USA.  There are other makers of beard trimmers which I believe also have a stubble setting.  I hope this helps.

From: Steve Dene

Date: Saturday, January 15, 2000 7:53 AM

Subject: Excellent Results with Linear Drive Panasonic

Thanks for you great site. It was very helpful to me when choosing a new razor, so the least I can do is provide some feedback. I am providing some of my personal context here as I found this helpful in other people's postings to identify if someone's experience would be relevant to mine.

I had been bearded for 5 years when I had to shave it off in order to wear a very tight-fitting mask to play Bigfoot in a TV advert (yes, truth is often stranger than fiction). After that, I found it hard to grow back my beard as every time I had an important business meeting, it would be at that not-quite-a-beard-yet scruffy-looking stage so I would shave and be back to square one. I don't need to shave every day as I work from home.

Anyway, the shaving was terrible and reminded me that the reason I got a beard in the first place was that I hated shaving. However, it does look smarter to be clean shaven, for me, anyway. But the annoyance and time of wet shavin! It took about 15 minutes, but I opened up the same cuts every time, so had lots of scabs on my face -- and it hurt, too, when shaving off the longer hairs of a 4 day beard. I had even started using women's disposables as they are hyoallergenic and only one blade (the double and triple blades seem to get clogged up with each stroke), which were a definite improvement but still no fun.

So I dug out my 20 year old Braun single foil mains razor and this resulted in no more blood -- but it was still a bit sore, and it took .ages. to get a close shave.

So I got on the web to see if some kind soul had done a comparison of the various shavers on the market -- the sort of independent, enthusiast's site that are the real gems of the web -- and found this site straight away.

The flagship models of Braun, Philips/Norelco and Panasonic seem to get the best votes on these pages, so I started with them. The Braun is not waterproof and can only be brushed clean, so that was eliminated. The Philips can be washed but needs some fiddly-sounding maintenance and there were reports of irritation. So that left the Panasonic.

The big department stores in London don't carry Panasonic, but eventually I found one in Dixons (a hihfi, PC, and TV chain) -- The ES8003 which seems identical to the ES882s. The 13,000 rpm is twice as fast as anything else on the market. The linear drive is the same approach as used to make Japanese bullet trains move, and this together with the induction charging (no plug needed) means few moving parts and cool technology.

The NiMH batteries are recommended to be topped up at all times, which I am suspicious of as it contrasts with the advice for the NiMH batteries in my cellphone, which are meant to be fully discharged every so often to bring them up to full capacity. My main concern is that they are not designed to be replaced in 10 years, but I think that Panasonic are more worried about resealing the waterproofing than the actual battery replacement. I should think I will be able to sort something out by then.

And so the first shave! It was awful, and I actually bled! And it didn't seem too close. My upper lip area was red and sore for 24 hours afterward.

I was disappointed as the shaver is so beatifully made, really nice feel and looks great. Not that cheap either!

However, then my wife had a go on her legs and to my amazement it worked really well -- almost like magic the hairs disappeared with only a light touch.

And that is definitely the trick. I had been pressing like crazy as I do with my 20 year old Braun. You don't need to. It works best if you apply hardly any pressure, just float it over the skin.

I tried again a few days later and it worked great -- no soreness, really close, and very quick -- no mowing up and down, just a couple of glides across a particular spot will do it. I got the stopwatch out yesterday and shaved for an important meeting with a new client. I stopped the clock at 2:42. After a closer look, I realised a few spots needed closer attention, so I started the clock again and ended up with a very satisfactory job at 3:30.

That seems pretty darn fast to me. An article in the Financial Times today talks about wet shaving and how it might be possible to shave with just 14 strokes. However, they interview a professional shaver at famous London barbers Trumpers, and he says that is impossible. It takes him 30 minutes to shave someone, although he says he can shave himself in 15.

This matches with the figures found on Mr Steelbeard -- about 15 minutes for an electric shave. Or 7 or so for the better shavers.

So I think that 3 to 4 minutes is pretty good going! And now I actually look forward to having a shave -- well worth the money indeed.

Steve Dene,

London

Thanks for sharing your experience with electric shaving, Steve.  That is very useful information.

From: R A Barrow <skeezix@epix.net>

Date: Saturday, January 15, 2000 10:01 AM

Gary,

Now that your site has a large Panasonic Linear user base, I hope your correspondents begin to keep notes on their razors' longevity, and motor and/or battery issues. I think a reader survey is in order.

Here are some possible survey questions for "Mr. Steel Beard" readers:

Why do you use an electric shaver? How long do you expect your shaver to last? Do you keep a back-up electric shaver to use if and when your primary shaver requires maintenance? Do you more often send your shaver away for maintenance or simply replace it? If you replace it, what is the primary reason (parts are too expensive or difficult to purchase; replacing is more convenient)?

Thank you, Mr. Steel Beard, for a great service and an empathetic "ear."

Rick Barrow

Thanks for the suggestions for the Survey Page, Rick. I got a survey page up with the first question, obviously still under construction but it's getting votes already. The first question is "What is your favorite electric shaver?" I'll add "Which electric shaver have you had the worst experience with? I plan on adding some or all of your ideas as well as questions devoted to specific shaver brands. Thanks again.

From: David & Sally <mulhern@mediaone.net>

Date: Wednesday, January 12, 2000 10:40 PM

Hi Gary! With all the talk here on the page about one shaver vs. another, I thought I'd pose a different type of question.

I had a surprising thing happen today relating to electric shaving. In a discussion with a dermatologist, he mentioned that he does not favor the use of electric razors. He feels that they are too rough with the skin. He prefers that his patients use a Gillette Sensor, shaving with the grain. This really surprised me, since one of electric shaving's primary claims is that it doesn't cut and nick the skin. He also said that electric razors sometimes "shred" the whisker (rather than cutting it cleanly), leading to ingrown hairs and other problems.

So my questions are: 1) What is medical / dermatological opinion on shaving with a blade vs. shaving with an electric razor? 2) Is my doctor in the minority? 3) Are you aware of any articles or medical references which address this topic?

Thank you as always for a great site, and I hope its OK to raise an issue pertinent to all electric shavers, rather than a question about product selection / preference.

Best regards, David Mulhern

Thanks for your thought provoking note, David.  Most of the comments I've received concerning shaving and sensitive skin mention the opposite where using an electric shaver following recommended instructions is preferable over blade shaving.  It's recommended that the shaving surface and/or cutters be replaced at recommended intervals so you do not shave with dull edges.  Unfortunately, most of the on-line resources I've found on shaving and skin problems are from web sites which offer skin care products and services.  The big complaint I've received concerning shaving problems is with "razor bumps" which are pimples caused by ingrown whiskers.  This is mainly a problem for those with very curly whiskers.  There are shavers (such as the Braun InterFace) with slotted heads with straighten whiskers before cutting.  The most useful URL I found is at this time is at http://www.sk.sympatico.ca/healthyway/HEALTHYWAY/feature_s%26h3.html  I hope this helps and I hope others can give their opinions concerning shaving and skin problems.  

From: Chuck Littig <crl@execpc.com>

Date: Monday, January 10, 2000 10:47 AM

Well I should have known a site devoted to electric shavers existed somewhere but I found it by accident and am glad I did. It is very informative and has helped me find some decent electrics after 35 years with a blade. I last tried an electric about 10 years ago. It was an Eltron Universal which I was not happy with because it didn't shave close and was very irritating.

Recently I tried again. This time a Norelco Advantage which gave me a close shave when I used it with the Nivea but not as close dry. It also was pretty irritating around the next especially dry. I used it about four weeks and was getting used to it to the point that I could have been perfectly happy with it. Two things I didn't like were that I HAD to use some kind of lubrication to get a really close shave and it did not have a built-in trimmer. So after reading about the Panasonic Linear I decided to give it a try.

I just shaved with it for the first time today and was surprised that I liked it right away. I shaved "dry" and got a very close, fast shave with little irritation. I also liked the pop-up trimmer but it really seemed powerful to me. Someone already mentioned that they could hear it clipping whiskers and I did too. I said it before but my impression was that it was powerful and really making short work of my normal beard.

Since I have only used the Panasonic once and this is only an initial impression I am not sure which I will keep. I really think both are great shavers and probably good for long-time razor shavers to try when going electric. The Panasonic Linear I have does not have what they call "lift strips". Does anyone know what these are and if they are effective.

Thanks for the forum. I will let you know how the Panasonic goes after a few more weeks.

You're welcome, Chuck and thanks for the info.

From: <hailstorm@hongkong.com>

Date: Monday, January 10, 2000 1:56 PM

AFTER BROWSING THROUGH YOUR HELPFUL WEBSITE, I HAVE FINALLY MANAGED TO SINGLE DOWN TO THE PANASONIC LINEAR SHAVERS.

HOWEVER, FROM THEIR HOMEPAGE, I FOUND THE MODELS: ES8068N AND DEL ES882S BOTH TO BE QUITE ATTRACTIVE.

ACCORDINGLY, ES882S IS ONLY 12,000 RPM, WHEREAS ES8068N IS 13,000 RPM. DOES THIS AFFECT THE SHAVING AT ALL?

THOUGH SLOWER, THE ES882S HAS 'LIFT STRIPS' WHICH I ASSUME THE OTHER MODEL DOESN'T HAVE...IN WHAT WAYS WOULD THIS AFFECT THE SHAVING?

THE FOIL OF THE ES882 ALSO HAS A TITANIUM COATING...

WHICH SHAVER SOUNDS BETTER?

THANX A LOT! =)

You're welcome and thanks for your note.  Everyone seem to be praising the 8000 series of Panasonic sonic shavers which I believe are newer than the 800 series Linear shavers and both seem very good.  The slightly faster speed of the ES8068N seems to add to the positive opinion of this shaver.  The "lift strips" are supposed to straighten flat whiskers before cutting to minimize "razor bumps".  As for any plating the foil has, that's supposed to make the foil surface glide along the skin surface.  The problem I see with electroplated surfaces is the electroplating wears out over time and you're rubbing your face with it while shaving so I would favor a foil surface that's not electroplated.  If anyone else has an opinion, please let us know.  I hope this helps.

From: Andrea Rivera & Jim Brogan

Date: Saturday, January 08, 2000 12:58 PM

I recently purchased a Norelco Quadra-Action and tried it for the minimum three week suggested period. I had been previously using a Braun foil razor that I've had for about 10 years - not sure what model, but it was top of the line when I bought it. Here are my observations. The Norelco definitely did a better job with longer hairs on my neck, but at the same time irritated my neck such that it was red for the whole 3 week period. After three weeks, I switched back to my Braun and found the Braun's shave to be overall closer, quicker, and non-irritating to my neck area. I will probably stick with Braun or try the Panasonic Linear.

Jim

Thanks for the note, Jim.

From: Alfredo Sauce <alfredosauce71@hotmail.com>

Date: Friday, January 07, 2000 1:51 PM

Let me first say what a helpful and informative website you have. By reading what others have already discovered, we save a lot of time and effort and move on to other things. The GDP goes up! God bless the internet.

After reading the messages posted, I decided to try out both the Norelco Advantage and the Panasonic linear 8067. As many of your readers have already said, the Panasonic is fantastic, and thats the one I kept. Unlike the Norelco, the Panasonic is more powerful and less irritating. I have been shaving with a razor for 8 years and this is my first electric. I actually still shave with a razor and then when i'm done, I put lotion on my face and go back over it with the panasonic (against the direction of hair growth) and this provides the closest, most comfortable shave I have ever had!

So if any of your readers are razor users that are considering switching to a wet/dry electric (as i was), then let me tell you that you can't go wrong with the Panasonic Linear series. Even if you are happy with your razor, the Panasonic used in addition will provide an even closer shave than the razor alone. My only problem with the Panasonic is that if you let your beard grow for a few days and then try the Panasonic alone, it can be irritating and sometimes even ineffective. It does best on short hair that is shaved daily and especially after shaving with a razor first.

I hope this helps anyone considering switching to electric :-)

Alfredo

I'm sure it will, Alfredo.  Thanks for your note.

From: BRIAN KROEKER <bkroeker@home.com>

Date: Thursday, January 06, 2000 10:25 PM

I used your forum to help select a shaver but haven't seen any reference to the Panasonic ES8003 I ended up with so thought I would share my experience. I have used Braun products for 25 years and have been very satisfied. My last one though was very noisy compared to current models and lacked a long hair cutter between the foils so it was time for a new one. I chose the Flex Integral Ultraspeed 6520 and was very happy at first. It was fast, quiet, close, and did not irritate. However, after a few weeks the motor speed started to get erratic regardless of the charge level. It would slow to a crawl then speed up again. I exchanged it for the same model and sure enough the identical symtoms showed up within a month. The department store I bought from was quite happy to replace these indefinitely but after returning the third one when it stopped cold after 4 weeks I concluded this was a design problem that wasn't going to go away. Braun Canada denied any knowledge of similar failure.

My only other past experience had been a short time with a top end Philips, but it always irritated my face and never delivered quite as close a shave as my Brauns. So I did my research, including your site for which I thank you. I picked the Panasonic ES8003 only after stumbling on it in a store, because the U.S. web page at Panasonic.com still does not list such a model. The store claimed it is exclusive to select specialty dealers. I don't know if it is a Canadian exclusive but it is described on the Panasonic Canada page at Panasonic.ca as their top model. The major difference from the ES8068 is what they call their 3D flex system where all 3 heads pivot independently (and a pretty titanium and gold finish). I've had it for a week and am impressed so far. The wet shave is the smoothest I've ever had. It irritated my neck the first time but I think I am just not used to the lack of feedback from a wet shave and pressed too hard. The dry shave is about the same as the Braun. Maintenance, as others have pointed out, is dead simple, just wash it under the tap.

Thanks for the information source, especially the forum, it helps a lot to hear other's experience.

You're welcome, Brian and thanks for your note.

From: Matthew Green <mcg4@lawgate.byu.edu>

Date: Tuesday, January 04, 2000 6:36 AM

The Norelco 6826XL seems to be the obvious preference on your web site. I am curious about its ability to shave hair that grows in every direction (as opposed to hair that uniformly points one way). Foil shavers (like my rechargeable Braun that just died after 7 years) just don't cut it. I often had to shave individual hairs separately because the foil would slide right over them. Do the slots on the Quadra action shavers eliminate that problem?

Thanks for your note, Matthew.  The Philishave/Norelco shavers have always had slots which are great for shaving longer whiskers.  The manuals advise stretching the skin to straighten whiskers before cutting.  The unique feature of the new Quadra Action shavers, such as the 6826, is the addition of holes to go with the slots.  This is for cutting shorter whiskers and is supposed to add the advantages of foil shavers to the Quadra Action shavers.  Users of Philishave/Norelco shavers have a habit of shaving in a circular pattern which allows users to shave whiskers which grow in every direction.  That's the habit I've developed over the years.  Foil shaver users, including Braun shaver users, tend to shave in a back and forth motion.  That was how I shaved when I used a Remington many years ago.  I hope this helps.

From: Scott <AkaSpud@aol.com>

Date: Monday, January 03, 2000 5:22 AM

Once again, your web site continues to be a superlative resource for information on the shaving arts.

I currently own a Panasonic 882, and have been happily shaving with it for about a year. During most of it's duration of use, it's easily been the finest shaving impliment I've ever dragged across my face.

About a month ago, however, I noticed that the shave wasn't quite as close, and I had to press down a bit more to achieve the shave I had grown accostomed to. I bought some new cutters and it helped a bit, but the shave still isn't quite up to par.

Should I also replace the screen? It seems like it's in OK shape, but perhaps it could also contribute to a lessening of closeness. The motor seems to be as strong as ever. Any ideas?

Thanks,

Scott

Thanks for your note, Scott.  Typically on foil shavers, the foil requires replacement first before the cutters do.  So I suggest getting a new foil screen for your shaver.  I hope this helps.

From: I like food, food tastes good.

Date: Monday, January 03, 2000 2:45 AM

I bought a Remington Intercept M2830. Do you know why there is no mention of it on their website? The numbers in the Intercept range go up to 2825. Mine was discounted 10%, was it an older model? If so, I would find it weird for an older model to have a higher number than some newer ones. This is not important, just slightly interesting to me.

Thanks for your note.  I decided to check the search engines out for this question. The Remington Intercept M2830 does show up on several on line shaver shops.  I also saw it on a Remington web site but that turned out to be a dead link.  I speculate that it's a high-end model which didn't sell as well as the other models in the Intercept line so Remington discontinued it.  Looking at the description from the on line stores, it looks like a really nice model from the description reproduced at http://www.electricshaver.com/images/Remington%20M2830%20info.jpg

From: Rodney Sanders <RodJoe@worldnet.att.net>

Date: Saturday, January 01, 2000 2:08 PM

Dear Mr. Steel Beard,

I hate to bother you again so soon.

I decided for the Philishave HQ6425 but since I last corresponded with you I noticed on the Philips site a Philishave HQ 6465 which is not sold in North America.

I really liked the color of that razor which is a champaign color as opposed to the denim blue of the HQ 6425.

Do you know of any source that sells international that it would be practical (time wise and expense wise) to order from?

No problem at all, Rodney.  Thanks for the new note.  I checked the European shops on line and I found the Philishave HQ6465 listed at the Olympic Shaver Center in Nottingham, England which at this writing sells it for £92.99 plus shipping.  Their URL is http://www.shavers.co.uk and I have a link to their web site in my list of shaver shops on line.  The currency conversion web site from cnn.com translated the amount from British pounds to around US$150.51 at this writing.  Remember that the exchange rate can vary.  The main concern with ordering a shaver from another continent is the plug is different from the one we're used to.  While you can get a plug adapter (all Philishave/Norelco Quadra Action shavers have automatic voltage conversion), this line of shavers use a mains or power cord which is significantly different from other Philishave/Norelco models.  Because of the waterproof construction of the Quadra Action shavers, the plug on the shaver end is different from the other Philishave/Norelco models so you cannot use the power cord from an old shaver.  Also, the wall plug on the Quadra Action cord contains a transformer so the Quadra Action shaver operates at a low voltage for safety reasons.  I'm sure you can get a Quadra Action power cord for the country you live in.  Just contact Philips DAP (or Norelco in the USA) through the Philips DAP or Norelco web sites I have links to.  I hope this helps and thanks again.