Shark S4 (or previous stainless models of Headblade)

[shootinfool73]

Just curious...  I'm still pretty new to head shaving -- just 1 month now -- and of the various methods I have used.... Sensor excel, Mach 3, Fusion, and Headblade ATX, and even tinkered with a few strokes from my DE razor, I love Headblade the most...  I am definitely thinking that will likely be my head shaving apparatus of choice (at least in the foreseeable future). 

That said, my wife was asking what I'd like for my b-day, and there is really nothing I WANT that isnt well over $100 .  But I did have a curiosity about that high-end headblade, the Shark S4, for $99.

I saw there was one topic posted on the Shark S4 -- a review -- but with no replies, so I'd like to see if anyone else has any input or suggestions.  The reviewer from last year seemed to love it because of the style and weight, and that's what I was wondering...  is the extra $$ really just paying for style, or just like with my chrome mach 3 handle and weighted handles of DE razors, would the added weight significantly improve the shaving experience?  Any thoughts???

Thanks
 

[greatnessinc]

If you use the ambassador code from here you can get 20% off. That's what I did, I got mine for around $70.
Tyler or one of our other fine folks will provide the link.
I like my S4 but unfortunately my head can only handle 1 blade at a time or it turns red as a tomato.
If you like the ATX, you'll enjoy the S4. If you prefer the sport then go with the eclipse.

[shootinfool73]

Thanks...  no I have the link/code for the 20% off already...  and thats exactly what I'd do.  In fact I'd actually get the S4 kit because they are selling it for $9 more than the razor itself and it includes a pack of 4 blades and a bottle of headslick.   The $9 is a deal on the blades alone.

Yeah, I'm looking mainly for opinions on the performance of the heavier razor...is it going to be worth replacing my $15 headblade with an ($80) one? 
Sounds like you are another +1 for it....thanks for the input!!
 

[Tyler]

I've found that the added weight of the S4 does make a difference and helps me get a better shave. 

[shootinfool73]

OK so I got the shark in the mail Friday....shaved with it last night and tonight.  Good discount with the SBG 20% code -- actually bought the Shark kit because for $10 more it came with a bottle of slick and a pack of HB6 blades. 

Not important, but nice looking piece of equipment...compliments the other chrome/stainless shaving pieces (no more 'cheap looking' stuff on the sink).
Seems sturdy -- unless the wheels break off, I would expect to have it a long time
Added weight feels nice in the hand and on the head, similar to using a DE razor, so the overall shave process feels better. 

But... as far a the shave results go I dont see a difference with my first 2 shaves.  Used one of the new HB6 cartridges that came with it, but the closeness, multiple passes required, etc. all seemed to be the same.  The back of the head at the base of the skull is one area that seems to never shave smooth if I leave the wheels on the head... I seem to always have to make it do a "wheelie".  I was hoping the weighted headblade might remedy that, but it doesnt. 

So, in summary I dont regret getting it at all because it is a much better quality razor and it does feel better to shave with, but I'm not sure it's worth $85 more than the plastic one.   

* Note...with the exception of the HB4 blade that came with my original headblade, all my shaves since have been with HB6s. Maybe there is a difference between the performance of the HB6 and HB4 (I've seen some people criticize the 6 blades and think that the HB4 or older 3 blade version of was better).   Do either of you notice a difference or have a blade preference?  Once I use up all the HB6 blades I have now, would it improve the experience to swithc back to HB4 blades?

Thanks for all your input...
           

[Tyler]

The blades are going to be the most important factor.  If you've had the best shave with the 4 blade cartridge, then stick with that.

As for the weight, I'd day give it 8 to 10 weeks and then try going back to the plastic ATX.  My guess is that you'll still be able to get a great shave from it, but it won't glide across your head as easy and you'll notice you're doing more of the work than you usually do.

[shootinfool73]

Thanks Tyler...appreciate it. 
Well, I can't say I had a better shave with the HB4 because it was my first week's experience with it, and then I started using HB6s to try.  I just remember the 6 seemed NO BETTER than the 4 in my opinion.  I will go back to the 4 blade once I use up what I have left... by that time I'll be well used to the shark and that will make for a better comparison.

[Sir Harry]

Not exactly related to topic, but I just wanted to make a suggestion: If you soak your blades in a light coat of baby oil when you're not using them, you may be able to get about five additional shaves with the same blade (unless you like to change blades between shaves)

[greatnessinc]

The HB4 IMO are easier to clean. The 6 seem to cut a little closer.

[Roatanguy]

I would vote to Go for it, I have a few S4 models , started with the original back in 2004 or there abouts and still using today with a few wheel replacements after they got knocked off and down the drain. I started with plastic original then to S4, skipped the sport but got one later.If you like the ATX then give the S4 a go. For a long time I had a Sport in my travel kit and the S4 at home and there was noticeable difference, not in results but effort to get same result. I have collected over time part for spare parts and also just to have them. I had refused to try the 4 or 6 blade cartridges as felt is was gimmick, until a local closeout store had them dirt cheap, like really cheap so I bought them all knowing I could Ebay them, The 6 blades may get there but I am keeping the 4.
 IMNSHO The 4 blade does give a slightly better shave than the triple but the best part is that it doesn't clog up nearly as easy as the triple, The only thing I dislike, or at least needed to get used to, was the taller profile so with the 4 blade cartridges it is a little tougher around the ears. The Ghost and Sport were absent on picture day.