DO THEY MATTER?
Weight, grip and balance: what a good handle does for your shave, and what to look for.
Most people choose a razor by the blades. But the handle is the part you actually hold, and it affects how much control you have and how hard you press. A good one makes a good shave easier. Here’s what to look for.
What a Handle Does
The handle is the link between your hand and the blade. A comfortable, secure one makes short, careful strokes easier.
A handle with some weight and a good grip lets the razor do more of the work, so you don’t press down. See our razor burn guide.
Cream and water make handles slippery. A rubber grip helps the razor stay in your hand.
A handle that feels balanced is less tiring to hold and easier to steer around the jaw and neck.
Three Things to Check
Many people like a handle with some heft, because it feels controlled and discourages pressing. Customers often mention the weighty, quality feel of ours.
Action: Pick it up. It should feel solid, not flimsy.Look for a textured or rubberised grip that stays secure with wet hands. SmartShave handles have a quality rubber grip.
Action: Test it with wet hands.The razor should sit comfortably in your hand, with the head neither too heavy nor too light.
Action: Hold it like a pen, and check it feels natural.The SmartShave Range
| 3-blade | 5-blade | |
|---|---|---|
| Models | SB3 and CB3 | GG5 and BB5 |
| Handle | Premium, quality rubber grip | Premium, quality rubber grip |
| Head | Pivoting action | Pivoting action |
| Strip | Vitamin E and aloe | Vitamin E and aloe |
| Starter kit | £9.99 | £9.99 |
All four models share the same handle features. See what’s in the starter kit for what you get.
Handle Mistakes vs the Better Way
✗ The Common Mistakes
- Choosing by looks alone
- Gripping tightly, which makes you press
- Leaving the handle wet and dirty
- Ignoring the balance
- Assuming a heavier handle fixes bad technique
✓ The Better Way
- Choosing by feel, in your hand
- A relaxed, pen-like grip
- Rinsing and drying it after each shave
- Checking it sits comfortably
- Pairing a good handle with good technique
Keep your handle clean and dry between shaves. See how to clean your razor.
- Premium handle with a quality rubber grip
- Pivoting action head
- Strip with vitamin E and aloe
- Free UK delivery
What customers say
“Excellent product, handle has a real weighty and quality feel”
“My now razor of choice”
“Very good quality yet reasonably priced”
Rated 4.5/5 from 15 reviews. Read them all on Trustpilot.
Frequently asked questions
Many people like some weight, because it feels controlled and helps you avoid pressing. But technique and a fresh blade matter more.
Shaving cream and water make handles slippery. A rubber grip helps the razor stay securely in your hand.
There’s no fixed lifespan. Replace it if it cracks, loosens or corrodes, and rinse and dry it after each shave.
Usually not. Cartridges are generally designed for a brand’s own handles, so check compatibility before you buy.
Yes. Start with the £9.99 starter kit, which includes a premium handle. You can change, delay or cancel at any time for free.
The handle is the part you hold. Look for some weight, a secure grip and good balance, and you’ll find it easier to use a light touch.