Even though I remain fond of the R89, I agree that the design — based on the Merkur 34c head is not a top performer ATG. That said, it is easy to use, shaves through a wide range of angles, has an intuitive shaving angle, at about 30 degrees and looks good. Sadly, both the Muhle and EJ are also poor value for money. I say this even though it remains in my rotation — just — and was previously a firm favourite. For an inexpensive razor that shaves great, the everyman Gillette Tech and £5 Yaqi Mellon are much better performers, especially ATG although initially, not as intuitive to use. The Tech and Merkur style heads that Lord still sell for less than £10 also shave as well as the R89/EJ89 if not better, although some will no doubt find — the just good enough look, feel and finish, does not engender pride of ownership.