Prep: Valobra Glycerlanolina soap, Myrsol Emulsion
Brush: M&F Brad Sears L7 Tigris Finest Badger
Soap: Declaration Grooming Colonia Balsamica
Razor: Blackland Dart
Blade: Polsilver Super Iridium (2)
Post: CRSW Alcohol-Free American Barbershop Moisturising Aftershave
Scent: Acqua Di Parma Colonia
As I have been shaving regularly with my Blackland Blackbird over the last few weeks, the timing was spot-on for a trial run with the P&C Blackland Dart loaner.
I would normally load a fresh blade, but as I had a Polsilver with only one shave on it, I loaded it up in the Dart. My second shave with a Polsilver is usually a smidgen better than the first, hence this decision.
The Dart is very impressive; for me it looks better in the flesh (metal?) than in photos. The fit and finish are also very good - it is a good-looking razor with solid heft and a good grip. I also like the flared flat base, which allows the razor to free-stand.
I took my time to build some luscious, shiny and lubricious lather with the Declaration Soap. And what a lovely scent Colonia Balsamica is. Having used the Blackbird in recent weeks, I was very much in 'zero pressure' mode, and focused on technique. My first impressions when shaving with the Dart were favourable - it initially seemed very similar to the Blackbird in performance. Significant blade-feel, excellent efficiency, and quite nimble in tight spots. It scythed through my 'iron whisker' trouble spots with ease. I was at DFS after two passes, and BBS after the third pass, a rarity for me usually reserved for the ATT H2 plate i.e. high aggression.
However, it was not all beer and skittles. Despite my best efforts, I managed to nick myself three times; even a single nick is rare for me these days. And there was certainly irritation as I went through my post-shave routine, and more significant than that experienced with the Blackbird. However, the post-shave products did their work and I was left with a very clean and close shave.
I'm not sure if the Dart is rated as similarly aggressive as the Blackbird, but on this first shave, it certainly felt a notch higher to me. I'll load up a vintage blade favourite of mine next time out (Personna P74) for comparison.
