Is The Henson Shaving Hype Real? Henson AL13 and Ti22 Review 

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Great review. I do have to point out though, as a machinst, the $200 price increase for titanium over aluminum sounds fair. Not only is titanium a much more expensive material, it’s much harder. Stronger metals require stronger tooling and more rigid machines as well as a significant increase in machine time.

I didn't like the Henson AL13 either because it wasn't efficient enough for me. I was about to sell it but my girlfriend tried it, liked it, claimed it and adopted it. She said, "It's as beautiful as your smile when I told you my parents were going away for Christmas and we didn't have to visit them."

I've never tried any other safety razors but I just got the AL13 and it's fantastically easy to shave with and gives me a closer shave than the disposables I've used for decades. I guess I'm a new to all this and I love it.

I love the youtube universe where I look for a review on a product and first find a small youtuber who shares their lunch. Such a cute touch

AL13 was my 2nd DE razor - 1st being a Wilkinson Sword from the pharmacy - I still find it a bit too aggressive and blade dependant - and while I think my fav is a Gillette fat handle tech the AL13 is still routinely out - especially if I find I need to shave for more than 2 or 3 days in a row - at that point I really appreciate the mildness - but that's just me. As for aluminum - we say Aluminum - but no one here says tomato - we all say tomato ;)

I just bought an AL13 and mounted a Feather blade in it. Best shaving I've ever had and I like heavy DE-shavers as well.

Canada pronounces aluminum the same way you do in the US. As for the Henson razors... back when they first launched, what is now the mild razor was marketed as the women's razor and the medium or ++ was the men's. The "men's" was my first DE (and it cost almost half then of what it costs now). They quickly changed their marketing to mild and medium. Clearly, their target are newbies, as I was. And - aside from price - it is the perfect gateway razor: built in angle; nearly impossible to cut yourself; can take (almost demands) cartridge-level pressure. They don't even sell the AL13 in +++ on their site, given their focus on new shavers, though they have finally compromised and started making it for other retailers. I really loved my ++ - so much so that when I found out that Henson was going to make a batch of +++ in V1 last year for a group of wet shavers, I managed to get on the list. TBH, the difference is noticeable but not huge. Meanwhile, I'm using both less and less as I have found razors I like better. They are good, no doubt, and for sentimental reasons I'll never sell my medium. But I'm starting to wonder if I really need both. If they ever make the +++ in stainless steel or brass, it might be more to your liking. But any experienced shaver who likes a heavier razor is likely to react as you did to the standard, mild aluminum.

Nice review Greg. I have 2 Henson razors, both AL13. I purchased one and won one. These are both the originals with no marking indicating the aggression of the plates. Yes, very mild. With a Feather, it’s a very comfortable, non threatening shave. Great if you are in a rush and don’t want to concentrate on the shave. I do want to try their highest aggression plate and see how that performs.

Hey Greg! I love watching your videos. I think you have the best cinematography of the shaving community. It's too bad you didn't like the Henson, but you're definitely entitled to your own opinion. I'd like to speak from my own experience - I haven't tried Henson's mild offering, but I do own their aggressive +++ plate (aluminum). It pains me to say it, but it gives me my best shave compared to my other 14 razors (standout razors: Muhle Rocca, karve CB razor D plate, Pearl flexi, vintage Gillette slim adjustable & black handle super speed, twig leaf thorn). It mows down my trouble areas (chin and mustache area) EASILY. I normally fixate and do some buffing with other razors, but i don't find myself doing so with the Henson. It might be due to how aggressively it bends the blade to reduce blade chatter, among other things. I would LOVE to own their Ti aggressive razor, but i already own the aluminum version. I wouldn't think they'd be too different + I don't want two razors that look exactly the same. I'm glad you were able to try them out anyway - it's good to find out what you do & don't like.

I was also underwhelmed by the Henson. It's definitely a smooth razor, but not nearly efficient enough for my taste. I think you're right on the new shaver aspect. They're pulling new shavers into the wet shaving world, and I'm sure after a while those new wet shavers will desire something more efficient. So it's a good thing. Just not my thing.

Thank you for this review. I like this razor very much based on yours and other’s reviews her on RU-vid, accept for the following: I wonder why there is no stainless steel version of this safety razor? I find that the titanium version to be understandably, very expensive due to Ti raw materials and the prices and it being harder to machine. I find that anodized aluminum over time (especially when subjected to prolong water and chemicals exposure) starts to flake the color. Is the silver in color aircraft aluminum AL13 finished with a clear coat or will it pit after years of usage?

I'm a fairly new wet shaving convert. The Henson Mild does a good job as far as I can tell. When I'm done it's BBS. I use it for my face and head. I'm considering a Medium or aggressive model next. Perhaps a T-2 ? I actually spend more money trying Shaving soap then worrying about my razer though. Loving the Phoenix Shaving C-6 products.

What's a good recommend for new shavers

I’ve been using disposable Gillette forever. I was going to buy a Henson but after your review I am not. Thanks for the info:) I’m 43 with a thick beard. Don’t need a soft blade like you said. Do you recommend one??

Well done review. I'm interested in the Henson and I wanted to check out a couple of review. Glad I stopped by your channel. I liked your take regarding the rounded bottom.

6:09 i am considering buying a single blade razor and am curious what blade you mention here?

I'm not a fan of light razors. I don't like aluminum razors. The Henson is my favorite razor of my 80+ razors. Yep I even like it better than my konsul, which I love. Stand it on it's head silly, it works great 😁 Awesome video Greg !

Had the Al 13 for a month now. Used every other day...so 15 shaves or so. Best razor I've ever owned by far. Gladly pay $100 for it. Super grip on the handle, bbs shave is easy. Not sure you can nick yourself with this if you tried. I agree the rounded bottom is strange though. Doesn't affect me though since I hand it up on a stand when I'm done. The secret to this razor must be the way they completely eliminated blade chatter and the blade gap and exposure calculations they made and hold to incredibly tight tolerances. My first aluminum razor and I really like the light weight.

Have the AL13, this razor would definitely convert a non-wet shaver, proper smooooooth! Love the manufacturing process of the razors, clever people at Henson. :)

What does the mild and the plus plus mean

Is it a rocket science to design a razor with adjustable parameters (blade angle, protrusion, extra heavy/light handle e.t.c ?

What safety razor do you recommend for a “newb” who’s looking to make a lasting purchase? Henson does seem to make razors that make it hard to nick yourself, which is nice, but I feel like they can’t be the only brand making an easy-to-use intro level safety razor.

Used it as my starter razor and now view it as my traveling razor with a pack of Feather blades. The razors used to come with Astra Green blades, but given circumstances in the world now, they swapped to RK blades.

You've got a great style of filming and relay to a T the questions I've had about this razor! I really appreciate your work :) excellent stuff my good sir

I alternate between my Feather ASD2 Stainless and the Henson Ti Medium both with Feather blades. If I have time or have a heavy growth, I use the Feather, but if I just need a clean up, the Henson does the job just fine. I've tried the Henson Al, and it is a bit light, but still OK. (I just wish I could get used to the Rockwell 6S. I know it's good but I always look like I've been in a bar fight after giving it an airing).

I noticed you didnt like the blade for the henson shaver, so what blade would you recommend for a beginner?

I liked the idea of the precision manufacturing but the corrosive nature of aluminium meant trying to remove the head after a couple of months was very demanding. I didn't mind the shave or the weight but It may have benefitted from a coarser pitch in the threaded handle.

Hi Greg. Thanks for your reviews to which I have subscribed. I have 9 razors bought over the period since last August when I dumped cartridge shaving for safety razors. I recently bought the Henson mild and have to say that with a second use Gillette Platinum it gave me one of my closest shaves, and without significant irritation on my very sensitive skin. This is one razor I will be keeping, whereas I will be parting regrettably with my Edwin Jagger 3one6 and Giesen Forsthoff Timor 1920, both of which do not suit me. I recently bought a Panasonic Series 900 LV-9U electric, which gives me a completely irritation free, very very clean shave, and this has brought me to review my safety razors from the point of view of good, but minimal irritation shaves.

Thanks for the thoughtful review. You saved me three hundred smackers. If I have a noob friend looking to get into wet shaving, I'll grab them one of the AL's. Until then, I'll stick to my Stirling Soap razor.

I’m kinda not surprised due to how light the razor is and your affinity for weight on your razors, but I feel like getting the mild was not doing Henson any favors either. I personally use an AL13 Medium with Gillette Platinum blades and it’s my favorite shave I’ve ever had (in my limited experience). To each their own though, and glad you at least gave it the good try.

Newby here: what's a better blade to get?

Any chance you tried out the Supply razor? If so, what are your thoughts on it?

This was a really nice, honest review. I enjoyed your personality coming through! Being that I'm new to safety razors, and I bought the Henson, I think you're spot on that they're for newbies. I'm used to cartridges with multiple blades, and I was shocked at how smooth it glided! There was no irritation, even compared to a new cartridge! I'm sold, and won't go back. I do use it for my underarms and legs though, so I wonder if there is a difference from shaving a beard. If you didn't like the blades they came with, can you recommend a different brand?

Do you have any tips for shaving real thick facial hair? Unfortunately I have to shave daily.

How would you compare the Henson razor to the TRC razor?

Im Canadian and own a Henson AL. Love it. And we say a- loo -min -um. My other shaver is a Merkur. I like the heavier razors too but this one rocks.

FINALLY... We have someone who knows how to put out decent shaving vids. The music in the background is perfect, btw.

I’ve been wet shaving for about 8 years now and have a collection of about 10 different double edged razors. The feather asd2 is the most expensive, I have open comb and closed game changer by razorock. The razorock lupo. The merkur 37 slant is great. Several others, but those are my favorites that I usually grab. I am interested in the precision machining of the Henson but haven’t tried it yet. It’s on my radar and probably my next purchase. Trying to check as many reviews as I can, but in the end the only way to know is to try it. Once purchased and used I will review it, until then I’m researching it the best I can.

Need to buy one of these brands. Never used the safety razor route. But I shave my head every day. Sometimes twice a day. Recommendations for me sir?

Im surprised they dont offer a stainless steel version for people who like a heavier razer

What’s a good shaver for a new person getting into wet shaving ?

I love the Henson Mild!!! My favorite blade with it is the Bic Chrome Platinum, but I enjoy the RKs also. You are rare with this view. I think it's interesting that this is your take.

I have a razorock. my EJ-de89 (possibly a clone, thanks amazon) broke after 5 years. i really like my razorock. it was around 50 bucks too. i'm glad i found this video. I should have known it was subpar, considering it's advertised by youtubers.

Is it better the more aggressive?

How does the henson vs...say, the tarditinaol blade, handles?

As I beginner in looking into fine razors I choose them to be my first choice

I'm not a shaver, I've always hated shaving, I usually use clippers, when you say "too mild" what do you mean? And which shaver would you recommend for someone who hates shaving, I've always had the problem of having to shave the same spot over and over again, hence why I hate shaving lol

Just bought a Henson, and I have an observation. As you note, the rounded handle end does mean you can't stand it up that way--but the flattened head means you can easily stand it up on that end instead. I would argue it's actually better that way, certainly more stable than balancing on the handle. Anyway, I appreciate the review, even if I did go against your recommendation in the end. To me the light weight aluminum is a feature, not a drawback, but everyone has their own preferences.

I got suckered into a Henson because I liked the idea it. I’ve been shaving a long time and had never tried this kind of razor. Now that I bought the Henson, does anyone have advice on what kind of blade to get where? The ones that come with it are horrible or the razor itself is. Help?

I am new to DE shaving, bought the Plow, the Muhle R89 and the Ti22. For me: Ti22 hands down; blades align perfectly, still learning to use it. Really good shave that should improve as I get better with presenting the skin and holding the razor. The Ti22 seems to suffer fools gladly. Mule R89 not bad but the blades do no align true, maybe as I get more experienced I may use it, who knows. The Plow was just that, the blades do not align true and fair number of small nicks. Used feather blades in all of them. If there are better blades please suggest some So for now, as a neophyte to DE in that I haven't used one in about 45 years, the Ti22 may not be the best for the experienced, but it is sure sweet for this beginner.

I’ll admit, I was one of the ones pushing you to try the Hensons, and while I still believe they’re definitely great razors, especially for beginners moving from cartridge razors, you are right that they’re not the best, especially in the mild configuration. The +++ is a big step up over the mild. I will say IMO though, that they are still better than the Rockwell 6S as far as shaving against the grain around the nose / mouth areas. For me, the 6S couldn’t completely shave there without leaving a stubble. With that being said, when I took the advice from another RU-vidr & got more premium razors like the Karve Overlander & Charcoal Goods razors, they completely blow away the Hensons as far as shave quality. The difference is something that you just have to experience for yourself. I know that my experiences may be different than others, but razors are just one of those things that you just need to experiment with until you find that perfect one that works best for you & your beard & skin type. I have learned a lot from you and appreciate your dedication to helping us all through the journey of better shaving. Thank you Greg.

I'm glad I looked this up. I was checking them out but when I saw how much they cost and then that they don't include a stand with it it but ask if you want to add one for extra cost before checkout seemed scammy. Like sorry but if I'm paying that much they could include a little plastic stand with it.

I have two Henson razors one mild and other medium and IMO they both feel the same while shaving and not that interesting but been going toward to Parker 55SL-GR semi slant razor as makes my face BBS after just one pass and few touch ups . Worth more than my other safety razors IMO.

Thanks I almost bought that thing. Used your link and bought a Rockwell 6S instead. ;)

Thank you for the review. For a while I was considering purchasing this razor but the look of it did not impress me.

0:44 depends on your province/area. I’ve heard both used but most in Ontario pronounce it the American way

Thanks for the honest review!

They do sell a stand to put the razor on the side, so the round tip is possibly on purpose! Great review thanks!

I love my Muhle R106 and my Edwin Jagger DE89. The heads are mixed, I'm sure, as I've mixed them up over the course of the years. Combs are the same, but the heads are different.

As a wet shaver, I can state any DE Razor without adjustment is a crime. The beard growth you can shave is limited, and the versatility of blade selection is also restricted. I find adjustability allows you to dial in a larger range of blads. I have only ever owned adjustable razors and have never been disappointed.

I need to know where you got your hotdog razor stand?!

I used that same mild Henson AL13 as my first safety razor. After two weeks of learning how to wet shave, I never became comfortable with the razor. I tried the included blades, Feathers, and even a few from a sample pack, all were not giving me a comfortable shave. Then, I got a couple classic Gillette's revamped in Rhodium (Fatboy and Slim Adjustable) and never looked back. Now that I have the Rex Consul in Rhodium, I won't even use the AL13 as a travel razor. I got a sturdy and padded case for the Consul and am willing to protect it to have the great shave every time it produces. At this point, it's Konsul, Fatboy and Slim Adjustable (in that order). I highly doubt I'll become unhappy any time soon. Anyone need a Henson AL13 mild? Mine is in need of a new home.

I like the thought they put into the design. However I agree with you- the weight is "off" especially having used a Merkur Futur for 10+ years now. Having a sensitive face I prefer the mild shave. The RK Blades are garbage- pulled like hell on first shave but to the credit of the razors design still managed to end up with an irritation free smooth final shave. If they made one out of Stainless Steel or made the top shave plates out of say Tungsten, I think it would be a great product. Aluminum and Ti are just too light.

HOW ARE THEY FOR SHAVING HEADS? I LIKE A VERY SMOOTH SHAVE CAN I ACHIEVE THAT WITH A SAFETY RAZOR?

Why not stand up the shaver on its head? It’s flat, after all. That’s what I do. They’ve only just introduced the stand, but I don’t need it. Btw, I have the ++ and the +++ I agree about the RK blades. They used to provide Astra SPs.

Is important to state. Only the handle is made in canada. I found it somewhat misleading. The good SS blades are indian. Weird right? The aerospace engineering facility only makes the poor rk blades... not the higher quality made in india blades. Just thought that was odd.

Im not a shaving enthusiest. I shave with a king C Gillette Safety razor, without cream, and thats pretty much it and I get the outcome I'm looking for. the reason I went with the safety razor is how it feels to shave. instead of rubbing your face with it, you're actually contouring the razor, applying the right pressure, it's so much more gratifying than a normal razor. It feels like a tool. It weighs 102g and I was thinking about upgrading to the Henson, but part of the reason I like mine is because of the weight. going from 102g to 39g on the henson, is making me rethink things as the big reason I like this is the feel AND the weight in the hand... I just weighed a crappy temu replica of a fusion 5 that i bought a while back and it was 40g, bsically the same weight as the Henson. its still bigger than the henson so it'll still feel more dense, but it feels very light compared to my steel gillette.

I never did buy any of the Hensons, but will give them props for helping get people into the community where we can get our hands on them and enable them. Best AL razor I have is the Overlander, I typically don’t like light razors, but that thing shaves like a laser beam. Have a great weekend bud!

I have absolutely no clue what you're talking about, I saw the Henson on an ad, but you make good content man, easy to listen to. I may have to look into this esteemed shaving league 😂

After 45 years of shaving, I finally found the two best razors made the Henson++ and +++. Any disagreement is simply anger that these brothers upended a whole industry. Case closed.

Which one gets closer shave?

What does it mean when he says it’s to mild?

I bought the medium aggression and it’s still too mild. I even bought the special size razors that are made for them. Also, for some reason this razor gives me ingrowns unlike all my others. It’s a really neat idea though.

I tried and like the Al13 +++. Having said that, I don’t reach for it often.

On my face, multiple passes with most razors equals cuts, razor burn, and ingrown hairs. With the Henson, I get all of that in one pass, plus the added bonus of my face still feeling like sandpaper. What’s not to love?

i'm sure the rounded bottom was deliberate. so that it doesn't topple over or drop to the floor accidentally.

the Henson ad campaign reminds me of "it's toasted" from mad men

I have the al13 medium and it shaves pretty efficient.

Well, if you bought the razors from Henson, they have a return policy if you don't like the razors...so you can return them and get your moolah back. But dude, had you told me you were buying them we could have talked. I knew your wet shaving experience and even I told you that I got a Medium because everyone was saying the Mild was too light. That's the majority of the negative reviews on their page because people got the wrong razor (I believe)! I also e-mailed Henson and told them that they need to kind of revamp their website because when you go to "Shop Now" it AUTOMATICALLY goes to the Mild razor and it's almost like they don't have any other options unless you scroll down. It not an intuitive site at all, and they should have an "Overview" video of their razors, how they operate, and who each aggression level is meant for. They have great solicitations, but things surrounding the advertising (like education) are not the best, in my view. I think if they took more cues from places like Razor Emporium or West Coast Shaving, they'd do some better product demos and such. I would still recommend a Henson for a travel style razor or for a beginning wet shaver if they have some extra "dosh" to spend, but I would advise them to maybe start with a Medium first and if that's too mild / aggressive, return it and get the Mild or Aggressive razor.

I shave my head with Gillette disposables and like the idea of a reusable razor. Would this be a good shaver for my head?

Hey Greg! Is there any specific wet shaving forum or Facebook group that you recommend?

I appreciate the review. Saved me $100 (I was ready to buy the stand)

Is a picture worth a thousand words? The thumbnail speaks volumes so my answer is yes. Henson razors feel like an engineer's interpretation of what makes a good razor while many of the razors you mentioned feel like an artist's interpretation. I have an interesting relationship with mine. I get a phenomenal shave about half of the time and a mediocre one otherwise. I think (lack of) weight and the handle design are the culprits. I'm going to try putting the head on a different, heavier, more comfortable handle to see if that makes any difference. Thanks for the video, Greg.

The Henson has a flat top so you can can stand it up on it's head. I have the medium (++) and the aggressive (+++). They are great razors but I still prefer my Rockwell 6C or my Karve Overlander.

wait, the whole point is that henson lasts a super long time, right? I don't think they're claiming their razors offer a total game changer shaving experience (and I don't think there is a need for improvement in that area)

I bought a safety razor at CVS and a 10 pack of blades came with it and it’s a darn good shave for 15 bucks. And it stands up. 😅

Greg you just said same thoughts that I have on Henson. Everyone is so hyped about it on Reddit but its a below entry level razor for sure. My favorite is is R41 though.

Thnx Greg.Q: could ya try a 60gram handle on the light Henson & see if that helps ? I’m a handle changing guy,works for me. The best Fred H.

it's definitely not my favorite but I love to use it for a final pass after using another razor to remove the bulk of my facial hair.

If I get this, I will get the aggressive one. Although I already have a Feather ASD2 so I'm not sure I ever need to upgrade. Maybe when I have $250 burning a hole in my pocket

I have a Henson AL-13. It’s nice and very well made. That said it’s not really for me. It’s too light, not enough knurling and it doesn’t give a close enough shave for my liking. That said, I have been wet shaving for about 12 years or more. I’m not a pro, but I am not a rookie. I wish I had the Henson when I made the transition. I consider this razor an awesome new guy razor. Or maybe a great razor for a woman to shave wherever they shave. 😮

What’s a good newbie razor then! ?

hows the AL13 compare to the leaf twig

What’s your favourite safety razor under £100

Titanium is a more expensive material sure, but generally thats not why it's that much more expensive, the reason is because ti is more difficult to machine, and kinda dangerous because the chips that come off the lathe are flammable and for that reason require added safety constraints

Hi Greg Don’t suppose you’d want to trade your ti22 for a second Rex Konsul that’s been used once? Straight up just don’t like the razor and I can’t find a forum to post it on lol. If your ti22 is getting no love I’d love to give it a new home as I love my AL13

The thing that makes me not want to buy a Henson is that I prefer the feel of a heavier razor. My Bevel safety razor is quite heavy.

Thanks. Useful.

you're the first person i've seen with negative things to say about the Henson razors. I can't justify the price for the titanium but i do have the original henson and the more aggressive version. I have a very courase beard, especially on my neck, and i actually prefer the original mild Henson. The thing i learned about the henson, and realistically ANY super light or aluminum razor, and my face is that the old traditional "no pressure, let the weight of the razor do the work" way of shaving doesn't work. I HAVE to apply pressure, and i get fantastic results. I can toss a feather blade in my henson, and apply all sorts of pressure where i need to, and come away with the closest, smoothest, nick and cut free shaves of my entire life.