The Lesser Known Astra -Superior Stainless

When people talk about Astra blades, it is usually about the Astras in the Green packs -The Astra Superior Platinum. For some reason, you rarely hear anything about the Astras in the blue and white box -the Astra Superior Stainless. Based on name, I would assume that the Superior Platinum were the premium blade while the Superior Stainless would be more middle of the pack. For me though, the opposite is true.

I have been using the Astra Superior Stainless blades in a variety of razors and find them to be very sharp, a bit more rigid (similar to Kai) and smooth. The one drawback is that these blades come with an industrial sized glob of glue. This does not pose a problem in three piece razors but, it very well might in a TTO.

If the rumors about the demise of Polsilver blades proves to be true, the Astra Superior Stainless blade is a worthy replacement.

I haven't tried these. I do like the Astra in the green box. How is this one priced in comparison to the Superior Platinum?  Also, given the extra rigidity, has it impacted the longevity of the blade's sharpness and smoothness?

(09-10-2016, 01:31 PM)gp569900 Wrote: I haven't tried these. I do like the Astra in the green box. How is this one priced in comparison to the Superior Platinum?  Also, given the extra rigidity, has it impacted the longevity of the blade's sharpness and smoothness?

I think it is slightly more expensive than the Astra in the Green box. I recently brought them in and have only had them in sample packs to this point. Curiosity got the better of me, I tried them, and  I am impressed. Longevity is a bit better than the Green Astras in my experience. I cannot get quite as many shaves from it as I can a Kai but, it is definitely on par with the Super Iridiums.

I need to get more of these in.

I agree, Phil.

They are very good blades, I was given a package a few months ago from a vendor. Sharp and smooth blades, but I tend to prefer the ASP, which is my all time favorite blade.

Saw these guys in Pasteur's recently. Will have to try them.

I also prefer the Astra blues to the greens.  Though I also like the old Astra greens (in the white plastic box, like Derby's) these were made in the old production factory.

I love Astra Superior Stainless blades!!! Second only to Feathers with Kai not far behind! 

I found that I am not a fan of the greens, but I love the blues and think that they are underrated. 
Very smooth and great longevity.

I agree Phil, the Astra Blues are sleepers and give a quality shave. A very "under the radar" blade. I have a pack of the Keramiks I'm afraid to open as I dont want to have to seek out yet another unobtainable item!

Interesting thanks for the heads up. Any idea where these are made Russia, India or Egypt ? Got to try these out.

(09-16-2016, 09:22 AM)Red Rider Wrote: Interesting thanks for the heads up. Any idea where these are made Russia, India or Egypt ? Got to try these out.

Russia...

(09-16-2016, 10:57 AM)Shanman Wrote:

(09-16-2016, 09:22 AM)Red Rider Wrote: Interesting thanks for the heads up. Any idea where these are made Russia, India or Egypt ? Got to try these out.

Russia...

Yep, I had forgotten, so I Googled it!

Quote: Manufactured in Russia, for Gillette UK

I've used these and the SP (greens), but it's been quite a while since I've used either. I remember liking the SP way more, but that was in one or 2 razors, and not my current rotation. I remember not using them because of those stupid wax spots, I have an EXTREME distaste for those.

+1, me too

I had a tuck of the blue's last year and was impressed with their performance. I was getting some very smooth shaves. I can't remember if they out performed the greens for me but they might have.