A Fine Razor With Issues
The FaTip Gold &#34;Testina Gentile&#34; (Gentle Head) is a mild three-piece razor that provides a close and exceptionally smooth shave. It is well balance with a good grip and an excellent gold-effect finish. Of the razors I have, it is most comparable to the Edwin Jagger DE89L in its overall performance. And it has two pluses: The handle grip is far superior to the slippery DE89L and, best of all, it is made entirely of plated brass, including the head of the razor. Three-piece razors at this price point typically have a head (cap and plate) made of Zamak. Zamak (pot metal) is an inferior material subject to corrosion and breakage.<br /><br />When I received this razor I wanted to like it, and I do. However, I would only recommend it with a proviso. The razor's cap and plate have loose tolerances, and blade alignment is consequently an issue. If this were a problem unique to only my particular razor, I would send it back. But from what I have since read on a number of forums, this is a characteristic typical of FaTip razors. When inserting a new blade, the user really should check the alignment and manually (and carefully) adjust the alignment of the blade as necessary. This problem is not yet a show stopper for me,  but I could understand if others might find it too bothersome. So, despite its excellent shaving performance I can give this razor only three stars.<br /><br />The EJ DE89L, at a similar cost, is noted for its precise blade alignment.
Rating: 3 stars