MUHLE TRADITIONAL R89 Double Edge Safety Razor - Barbershop Close

In this review of the MUHLE TRADITIONAL R89 double edge safety razor, the bottom line is simple: it is for men who want a reliable, close shave with a classic feel and durable construction. The razor stands out for delivering a barber-quality, smooth shave while remaining easy to use for daily grooming. Its closed comb head and carefully designed blade angle do the heavy lifting, so the shaver can focus on technique rather than pressure, making it a strong choice for someone moving from cartridge razors to a traditional safety razor.

Key Features

• Durable handle: The handle is built to last and is available in classic chrome, rose-gold metal, faux tortoiseshell, and black chrome for a premium look that resists wear.
• Closed comb head: The closed tooth comb design reduces buildup and helps guide the blade for a controlled, close shave that feels nostalgic and precise.
• Optimized blade angle: The head geometry and gap behind the foam edge are designed to produce a closer shave without needing to press the blade into the skin.
• Recommended technique guidance: The razor performs best when skin is kept taut and the blade is drawn without added pressure, which reduces irritation and improves results when shaving with the grain.
• Environmentally mindful: MUHLE emphasizes sustainability and supplies products without plastic, appealing to users who prefer low-waste grooming tools.

Who It's For

The MUHLE R89 is aimed at everyday users who want a step up from disposable cartridge systems and value long-term build quality. It suits someone who appreciates a traditional shaving ritual and wants a razor that can deliver a close, barber-like finish with the right technique.

Shavers who prefer extremely aggressive blades or who need an adjustable razor may want to look elsewhere; this model is balanced toward control and smoothness rather than an aggressive cut. Also, those who require a very short or very long handle should verify handle length preferences, as customer feedback on length has been mixed.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Feels well built and weighted, which many users say helps deliver a smoother shave with minimal effort.
• Close, barber-quality shave is achievable when using the recommended technique and a compatible blade.
• Attractive finish options make it a good-looking addition to a grooming kit and a durable alternative to disposables.
• Plastic-free packaging and sustainable sourcing align with environmentally conscious shoppers.

Cons

• Handle length received mixed feedback, so those with strong preferences should check fit before committing.
• Less aggressive than some safety razors, so users seeking an extremely fast, heavy-cut shave may find it milder than expected.

Specifications

Brand	MUHLE
Model	TRADITIONAL R89
Head type	Closed comb safety razor
Handle finishes	Classic chrome, rose-gold metal, faux tortoiseshell, black chrome
Packaging	Comes without plastic
Recommended technique	Keep skin taut; draw blade without pressure; shave with the grain

Our Verdict

The MUHLE R89 is a solid everyday safety razor that balances classic styling with dependable performance, making it a smart choice for men who want a long-lasting, close shave at home. It delivers barbershop-like results with the right blade and technique, represents good value over time compared with disposables, and will satisfy anyone prioritizing build quality and sustainability.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this razor suitable for beginners?
Yes; its closed comb design and moderate aggressiveness make it forgiving for new safety razor users when they follow the recommended no-pressure technique.

Will it work with standard double edge blades?
Yes; it accepts standard double edge blades and users report good performance with common blade brands when paired correctly.

Is the handle replaceable or available in different finishes?
Yes; MUHLE offers the handle in several finishes including classic chrome, rose-gold metal, faux tortoiseshell, and black chrome for a customized look.