• Skip to primary navigation
  • Skip to main content

Luxury Shaving Razors

  • About Us
  • Contact Us
You are here: Home / Muhle R41 Review

Muhle R41 Review (Incl. Twist & Grande) Open Comb DE Razor

We may earn a commission for purchases using our links. Learn more

In today’s article we do a Muhle R41 review and buying guide (including also a review of the Twist & Grande razor versions); Admit it, there are just days when you feel you do not have the time to go through the trouble of having to make three or even four passes before you can get that close shave you prefer.

This is a normal phase that most men go through at some point, especially when they have busy days.

As such, there is nothing to be ashamed of. Now, for your close shave grooming need, there are several razor options that you could choose to explore.

Muhle R41 (Summary)

In a hurry? Here is the key takeaway:

Recommended Use: Experienced

Editor’s Rating: (4.5/5)

Value for Money: (4.5/5)

Quality: (5/5)

Rating & Feedback: Check out more reviews and feedback here.

Summary: For men who sport coarse beards, rough facials hairs, or those that have skin that is sensitive and therefore more prone to inflammation (use a good shaving cream or soap if you have this problem), those who are out in search of an aggressive safety razor to get a clean, close and great shave in 1 or 2 pass shave, our Muhle R41 review have shown that this open comb safety razor will provide you with the best option. You need to ensure that the edition you get is 2013 or later. Other editions of the safety razor feature some features that make it less forgiving on the skin.

Contents show
1 Muhle R41 (Summary)
2 What To Expect From the Muhle Open Comb Razor
3 Muhle R41 Traditional (Classic) Version
4 Muhle R41 Twist Version
5 Muhle R41 Grande Version
6 Ease of Loading The Blade
7 Grip
8 Aggressiveness
9 Length
10 What Do Other Reviews and Users Say About Mühle R41?
11 Muhle Muhle R41 Sets, Accessories, and Blade Recommendations
12 Muhle R41 Verdict (All Versions)
Muhle R41 Open Comb Safety Razor
Click the image for pricing & more info

For starters, you could use products like a cartridge razor and risk having a razor burn or use a more efficient wet shaving tools like a slant razor,  a barber style traditional straight-edge razor – or maybe even better – an open comb double edge safety razor like the safety razor we are reviewing today.

Okay, this Muhle safety razor is not an open comb razor per se but rather a hybrid of the traditional open comb razor design and the scalloped safety bar design that have popped up in the recent past.

It is designed with little exposure to the razor blade than its predecessor. But even then, many men that prefer wet shaving deem it to be one of the most aggressive safety razors on the market.

The open tooth comb safety razor design this uniquely chrome-plated beauty features is what makes it more aggressive than the closed comb safety razors on the market. This razor can shave off thicker hair, like a 3-4 day growth beard – with fewer passes to give you a close shave still in the comfort of your home.

However, if you are a beginner and learning the ropes of classic shaving, you should go for Muhle closed less aggressive comb razor – making it a perfect safety razor choice for beginners. After you have gotten a hang of this type of shaving and are confident you can do I without nicking yourself, then you can make the shift. I am sure you will find it very satisfying.

We Like
  • Features great craftsmanship and a great design
  • Has a design that helps to shave beards and hair in fewer passes
  • This razor is a great option if you have a heavier beard growth
Keep This in Mind
  • Slightly expensive
  • It is aggressive and not ideal for beginners
Insider tip: The Muhle R41 razor (Standard and Grande only) has the same handle as the sibling R89, so you can start your wet-shave career with an ’89 and after a while, just pick up a replacement headpiece and use that on the old and familiar handle. Note – this is not possible if you have the ‘R89 Twist.

Or if you already are the proud owner of “the Beast”, but just want to go easy on some mornings, pick up an R89 replacement headpiece and use that on your trusted Muhle R41 handle.

Individuals who are experienced in shaving with safety razors have gone on record to state that this safety razor is well built. Some even go ahead to state that it is a major upgrade from the previous one.

As such, it is designed to provide a safer and closer shave even though it has a slightly larger top cap. Upon more investigations, it turns out that the previous version had many persons complain of its aggressiveness.

It was causing too many problems even to expert wet shavers who are skilled in the art. But even with this fact, when the new design was introduced to the market, some were still skeptical and afraid to give it a try.

Those who fell in love with the upgrade loved the fact that in just two or fewer passes your facial hair achieved a clean look. They went to the extent of calling it “The Beast” and though it might have been caged, it might not be tamed, so you should take this as a warning. It shaves as close as a straight razor!

What To Expect From the Muhle Open Comb Razor

The Muhle R41 comes in three designs to meet the shave needs of consumers. There is a two-piece Twist design, a 3-piece Grande, and a 3-piece Traditional/conventional design.

In addition to the three, there is also a version that features a traditional design but comes with a different color handle, if you are the kind who wants a traditional one with a slight twist to it, you will surely love the Rosegold design.

Muhle R41 Traditional (Classic) Version

FeaturesSpecsPerformance
  • Very light – weighing only 2.2 ounces
  • 3-piece design
  • Polished chrome finish
  • The design makes the product a great option if you have a heavier beard growth
  • Made in Germany
Model: Traditional Version

Overall Length: 94 mm/ 3.7 inch

Handle Length: 82.5 mm/ 3.2 inch

Handle Diameter: 12 mm/ 0.55 inch

Weight: 64 g/ 2.26 oz.

Material: Metal

Finish: Chrome

Type: 3-Piece Open Comb

Adjustable: No

Knurled handle: Yes

Blade included: 1

Please note that the star ratings below are our ratings – it has nothing to do with how the product is rated on retailer sites like.

Weight: (4/5)

Grip: (4/5)

Length: (4/5)

Aggressiveness: (5/5)

Blade Replacement: (3.5/5)

Shave Quality: (4/5)

Affordability: (3/5)

Many comparison reviews have been done on the three different types of the Muhle R41. What shines brightly from all the reviews written is the fact that Twist and Grande both come in at 90 grams (3.17 oz.) while the standard version is the lightest weighing in at 64 grams (2.26 oz.).

You should, however, note that the two feature similar dimensions; 107 mm long and 41mm wide, and a handle diameter of an impressive 14mm (0.55 inch).

Muhle R41 Twist Open Comb Safety Razor
Click the image for pricing & more info

Muhle R41 Twist Version

 

At a hefty 4.2 inches (107 mm), the Twist is the longest variant (along with the Grande) from Muhle.

In addition to this, it also is the heaviest of the various models at 3.17 ounces (90 grams).

One of the biggest reasons to choose this over the others is the easier assembly.

FeaturesSpecsPerformance
  • Chrome plated finish
  • 2-piece design
  • Polished chrome finish
  • Longer handle and heavier than the Traditional
  • Made in Germany
Model: Twist Version

Overall Length: 107 mm/ 4.2 inch

Handle Length: 95 mm/ 3.7 inch

Handle Diameter: 14 mm/ 0.55 inch

Weight: 90g/ 3.17 oz.

Material: Metal

Finish: Chrome

Type: 2-Piece Open Comb

Adjustable: No

Knurled handle: Yes

Blade included: 1

Weight: (4/5)

Grip: (4/5)

Length: (4.5/5)

Aggressiveness: (4.5/5)

Blade Replacement: (5/5)

Shave Quality: (4/5)

Affordability: (2.5/5)

Muhle R41 Grande Version

Muhle R41 Grande Open Comb Safety Razor
Click image for pricing & more info

Both the Grande and the Twist have the same length.

However, the Grande is to be slightly lighter by around 10 grams.

Unlike the Twist, the Grande is a 3 piece razor. So basically,  a heavier and longer version of the Traditional.

What is even better about this one is the fact that you can change the product’s grip in the event you feel the knurling is not as deep as you would like to provide you with a greater grip.

FeaturesSpecsPerformance
  • Easy to load the blade
  • 3-piece design
  • Polished chrome finish
  • Comes with a Feather blade
  • Has a longer handle than the Traditional
  • The design makes the product a great shave option if you have a heavier beard growth or thicker hair
Model: Grande Version

Overall Length: 107 mm/ 4.2 inch

Handle Length: 95.5 mm/ 3.75 inch

Handle Diameter: 14 mm/ 0.55 inch

Weight: 80g/ 2.8 oz.

Material: Metal

Finish: Chrome

Type: 3-Piece Open Comb

Adjustable: No

Knurled handle: Yes

Blade included: 1

Weight: (4/5)

Grip: (4/5)

Length: (4.5/5)

Aggressiveness: (5/5)

Blade Replacement: (3.5/5)

Shave Quality: (4/5)

Affordability: (3/5)

Ease of Loading The Blade

Both the Grande and the traditional variant feature a 3 piece design while the Twist is made to be a two-piece design. You should, however, know that courtesy of its two-piece design and the fact that it is more expensive than the traditional variant of the Muhle R41.

This is the logic that should be used when choosing between the three variants: if you have large hands and are looking for a safety razor that will be easy to assemble, then the Twist is ideal for you. Just remember you will have to part with slightly more $ to take it home.

On the other hand, if you could care less about the price and need a product that is easy to clean as well as assemble, then the Grande is perfect for you.

Grip

Explaining the knurling that the Muhle R41 has can prove to be slightly tricky. Here is why.

From afar, the knurling looks like waves spiraling down the handle while upon closer look they seem to just line crisscrossing each other to make tiny diamond shapes on the surface of the handle. But what many people seem to agree with, is the fact that the knurling on this safety razor is not as deep and still one might notice some slipping.

The Grande and Traditional both feature a flat handle.

The Twist comes with a protruded handle that provides slightly more grip in the event your hand slips down to the very last bit of the handle.

Aggressiveness

Many people who have used this safety razor in the past refer to the product as “the beast“.

The original version of the Muhle R41 was a lot more aggressive. So much so that Muhle just had to redesign the product to slightly tame the wild beast.

The design that this safety razor feature is what is responsible for the aggressive nature of the “Beast”. The open design refers to a design where the safety bar has not been made to be flat – it comes with some indentations that allow for the shaving lather to pass through while you are shaving.

In addition to this, the design exposes the skin to the blade more – ensuring a cleaner, closer shave in an impressive two passes. The indentations make the safety razor perfect for individuals who have mastered the art of classic shaving – those who are comfortable and have total control of their hands and razor in the process.

This feature still gives it the ability to tame a 5-day rough beard.

Length

All the ‘R41 safety razor variants come in different lengths which provide you the user with some room for choice and preference.

The three-piece design measure  107 mm/ 4.2 inches and 94 mm/ 3.7 inches respectively.

The 2-piece measures 107 mm/ 4.2 inches and is the heaviest of the 3 at 90 g/ 3.17 oz.

If you have large hands and prefer a blade that has a longer handle, you will prefer the Grande or Twist. If you have medium-sized, or small hands, the Traditional will work best.

What Do Other Reviews and Users Say About Mühle R41?

On shaving forums, the likes of ShaveNook.com, a lot of wet shavers share their experience and have gone on record praising the safety razor design of the Muhle R41 saying that it can provide for a BBS close shave on beards and it shaves facial hairs that have a roughness of 5 days.

The fact that the open design of the Muhle safety razor lets the cream pass through ensures that the product does not clog up and even if it does, it is far less often than Merkur 34c HD.

On eCommerce sites that cater to men’s grooming, some individuals have gone on record and left reviews stating that their search for a close shave ended up settling on the Muhle R41.

At this point in our review, it is probably necessary to issue a warning.

If you are just fresh to wet shaving with a safety razor; if you still are learning the ropes and all, you should probably avoid this safety razor since you just might end up nicking your face. But as mentioned earlier in the article, a good option is then to start with the sibling R89. We are currently working on a post where we do a comparison review of Muhle R41 vs R89.

Muhle Muhle R41 Sets, Accessories, and Blade Recommendations

Since the Muhle R41 is a safety razor that is NOT for wet shaving beginners, I assume that a complete kit is not for you, since you most likely have some or most of the necessary accessories.

Accessories

However, there are some safety razor add-ons that you might want to consider.

Stand

It doesn’t get much better than this: Mühle Classic stand (Razor and Brush) – Please keep in mind if you have a brush already – this stand will only fit up to 25mm knot size.

If you already have a stand for your brush, then this one will be a good match: Mühle Classic stand (Razor only). Fits R89, R106, R 107, R41, R101, R102, R89 Grande and R 41 grande. It should also accept Merkur’s models: 11C, 15C, 23C, 25C, 33C, 34C, 37C, 41001, 42001, due to its neck size.

Travel Cases and Pouches

Currently, you can order directly from Mühle. At West Coast Shaving they have a leather case that fits the Muhle R41 Grande model (also R89 Grande).

If you don’t want to go all-out regarding shave travel bags, you should at least consider this Shave Blade Guard.

By the way – did you know that Mühle is also making high-end shaving brushes? Slightly expensive, but for sure great German quality.

Blade Recommendations

Aggressiveness (not only for the ‘R41 but for any kind of safety razor) also depends on what kind of safety razor blade you are using. Try with a variety pack to find your perfect fit. But you will not go wrong with either a Muhle Stainless Steel, a Feather, or Astra blade.

Muhle R41 Verdict (All Versions)

The Muhle safety razor comes in 3 variants which vary not only in weight, handle size, length, and weight but also in cost. If you love the 3 piece design, go with the Muhle R41 Grande or the traditional version of the Muhle R41.

On the other hand, if you are looking for a safety razor with a 2-piece design then the Muhle R41 Twist is perfect for you.

After reading this Muhle R41 review you have found that this safety razor is a fit for your grooming preferences you will not be disappointed! As always, the safety razor is just a piece of the shave puzzle – take your time and use good blades, shaving cream for classic shaving, or even maybe the best shaving soap for the perfect shave result.

Don
Don Hayes

My name is Don and welcome to Luxury Shaving Razors! The idea behind the site was born in 2016 after trying to find a decent safety razor for my own personal use. I decided to document my journey.

  • Privacy & Cookie Policy
  • Terms
  • Earnings Disclaimer
Luxury Shaving Razors is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program
designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.com.
Amazon and all related Marks are Trademarks of Amazon.com, Inc. or its affiliates

Copyright © 2023 · Luxury Shaving Razors

 

Email: [email protected]

This website uses cookies to improve your experience. We'll assume you're ok with this, but you can opt-out if you wish.Accept Reject Read More
Privacy & Cookies Policy

Privacy Overview

This website uses cookies to improve your experience while you navigate through the website. Out of these cookies, the cookies that are categorized as necessary are stored on your browser as they are essential for the working of basic functionalities of the website. We also use third-party cookies that help us analyze and understand how you use this website. These cookies will be stored in your browser only with your consent. You also have the option to opt-out of these cookies. But opting out of some of these cookies may have an effect on your browsing experience.
Necessary
Always Enabled
Necessary cookies are absolutely essential for the website to function properly. This category only includes cookies that ensures basic functionalities and security features of the website. These cookies do not store any personal information.
Non-necessary
Any cookies that may not be particularly necessary for the website to function and is used specifically to collect user personal data via analytics, ads, other embedded contents are termed as non-necessary cookies. It is mandatory to procure user consent prior to running these cookies on your website.
SAVE & ACCEPT

How can I help you?