DOVO Solingen PRIMO I Safety Razor

The DOVO Primo is the first safety razor they've released since separating from Merkur. It's a completely new design but has some superficial similarity to the Merkur razors in that it uses a Mazak diecast cap and plate but has a plated brass handle that gives it a good heft.

As a shaver it is a little on the aggressive side so some caution would be needed for someone new to wet shaving. The experienced user will get high quality results from this razor with the right blade. For me, the DOVO branded blades supplied with the razor were a bit underwhelming. The Muhle blades that I normally use didn't seem at their best either - the best results I've had to date have been with the Feather Hi-Stainless which seems a bit counterintuitive given their reputation for sharpness!

I can recommend this razor as an economic alternative to the expensive stainless steel safeties that are currently in vogue. Purists may decry the Mazak cap and plate but they're well chromed and should last. I'm very happy with this purchase.