Man of Leisure was kind enough to pif on an unwanted XD20 to me.. (originally from Tazzbaby)
He's named it yellow peril, and never used it...
Ok, where to start, I did a
review on the Dovo shavette, so I think a comparaison is in order.
I had 3 days growth, so a good bit to chop off.
First of all, the XD20 feels a lot more solid then the Dovo, however it looks like its price: cheap.
But don't let looks get you, this is a good piece of kit, for very little money.
I used the the exact same setup as last time: Shark, KoS, MWF, NF2211.
Fitting the blade can be a bit of a fiddle, on my first go the blade was not lined up properly.
I do prefer the way the blade is held compared to the Dovo and the cheap plastic sleeve.
A lot of the gripes I had with the Dovo seem lesser with the XD20.
The heavier front (blade end), allows you to let the razor do all the work, no pressure needed.
This translates to a more confortable shave all round.
Pros:
- Heavier. (weight of a straight)
Blade exposure quite visible.
Cheap.
Feels better balanced.
[/list:u]
Cons:
- The scales are horrid looking.
Rivet pin looks like it won't last long...
Fiddlely blade change. (but better than the Dovo)[/list:u]
Conclusion: If I had to chose between the Dovo and the xd20, the xd20 wins it hands down, and costs 1/3 of the price.
The Dovo looks like it's maybe better made, but I doubt it'll last you 3 times as long!
If you want to try a shavette, this is the one to get.
I think you could probably get away with it as a newbie, but still can't beat a straight when starting out.
If ever I got fed up with the whole stropping honing etc.. I'd probably turn to this as a viable alternative.
These are available for less than 8 quid (inc P&P) off the bay of evil.
Max
Pictures:
Sanguine XD20 on the scales (loaded)
Dovo shavette on the scales (loaded)
Balance point of both shavettes (loaded)