[foxtrot]

I realised this a long time ago, I purchased an Open Razor (still learning that one) and a Merkur Safety Razor. I use Feather Blades which are very sharp and require a little more skill to use, however they run about £5 for 10, Mach 3 run around £10 for 8, its not hard maths :)

A good shave also looks after your skin, and using a badger brush with a good glycerine based shaving cream with good pre-shave and post-shave routine makes all the difference.

I use http://www.tayloroldbondst.co.uk/acatalog/shaving-soaps-and-... (top one in sandalwood) is fantastic, it lasts ages, doesn't numb your skin and works up a very nice lather (when used with a badger hair brush), I would recommend people try it even if they keep their Mach3.