44Whitehall said:
I'm struggling with this one. Could be a weighting issue for me as I had similar irritation issues with the relatively heavy Ikon Slant as well. But perhaps I'm struggling with angles or the Feather Pro blade. Not sure but I hope I get to the nirvana that others have found. Localized irritation (as if I've over-buffed) takes a while to calm down so I'm only a few shaves into the mongoose.
Speaking for myself, I've found that with the Mongoose:-
1) Even with the lightest handle, near-zero pressure is needed to get it to cut well.
2) The thickest, slickest lather at all times is essential. I've used Nanny's, TFS, Mitchells, Wickham's, Erasmic and Proraso Red. The latter performs especially well.
3) Always make sure that you never go over any un- or semi-lathered skin (a good rule always, but especially relevant with the Mongoose). I've found that the width can sometimes cause me to "overlap" a little, so I take care to avoid that.
4) Clear lather from the razor frequently, to avoid any clogging. However, be sure to shake all water from the razor, as it can accumulate slightly in the head and thus thin or affect that superb lather cushion you've already applied.
5) The angle is a bit of a challenge, and all I can really say is that you should, after a little while, find that which suits you best. I change the angle slightly for different areas and passes, but it seems instinctive. As there's no audible feedback, it's all down to "feel" and result.
6) I find the Pro blade just fine, and it's the only one I've used so far. It might pay to try a milder blade such as the Kai Captain Titan Mild, or perhaps the Feather Pro Guard. I don't know of anyone in the UK who does a sample pack of suitable blades, but it might be worth looking at
Tryablade.com in the USA who do a "Mongoose Sampler" at $8.69 plus $4 postage (haven't tried them myself, though I toyed with the idea).
I hope that, with a bit of time and practice, and perhaps a change of blade, you'll come to like your Mongoose as much as I do mine.