They are available on eBay from the Irish Barber Shop, I got mine from here and they were quite prompt. I also got an old version R41 from Timothy Edwards whichh comes with a lovely case
New R41
<!-- m --><a class="postlink" href="http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/MUHLE-Open-Tooth-Cut-DE-Traditional-Razor-R41_W0QQitemZ160354389310QQcmdZViewItemQQptZUK_Health_HairRemoval_RL?hash=item2555ddcd3e" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;">http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/MUHLE-Open-Tooth- ... 2555ddcd3e</a><!-- m -->
Old R41
<!-- m --><a class="postlink" href="http://www.timothyedwards.co.uk/Brand/M" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;">http://www.timothyedwards.co.uk/Brand/M</a><!-- m -->ÜHLE/Muhle-R41-Open-Comb-Safety-Razor/p-70-110-248/
For some reason the U with the dots above it stope the full link working, just copy and paste the line into your browser. Or when the link takes you to the page not found click on Muhle on the left hand side.
I like the older version, it is more agressive, perhaps the most agressive non adjustable I own and I love the tin. It says that it does not fit the new R41 but it does.
I am seriously considering an R41 after reading this. But how do I decide between the closed and open comb design? The only experience I've had of open comb is from an old Gillette (a Tech?) which I wasn't at all keen on, but I'm thinking that a brand new Muhle would be a very different beast.
Please can somebody try to explain to me what the benefits of each style are while avoiding the obvious advice of "just buy them both - you know you want to!"
Oh, and to confuse matters further the EJ DE86 is very highly rated too. Aaagghh! Has anyone got a copy of What Razor? I want to compare the star ratings.
Okay, I'm twitching slightly. Has anybody used an R41 open comb with some of the sharper blades, such as Swedes, 7 O'Clock, or Iridium? I can't use Derbys or Personnas, they just not sharp enough.
Sorry Ian, I didn't understand. I've also used Astras and Sharks in the OC set ups (Merkur 11C also) and get very good results.
I think that I must just be more suited to the Open Combs; perhaps a nice light Merkur OC 15C could be a Spring time present unless anyone has an unwanted piece?