To me, the Merkur 33C is for those who want the shave of Merkur’s 34C HD razor but don’t want the heftiness.   Like the 34C, the 33C is a safety bar or closed comb razor with polished chrome finish and etched handle.

The Merkur 33C

However, unlike the 34C, the Merkur 33C is a three piece razor as opposed to a two piece.   The 33C’s and the handle is slightly longer measuring 3.625 inches from end to end while the Merkur 34C HD measures 3.25 inches.

The 33C (left) measures a little longer than the 34C HD

It looks like Merkur uses the same razor head for both razors.  So, I find both to be mildly aggressive shavers and the shave quality to be similar.  Admittedly, this is one that I don’t bring out much as I prefer the girth of the handle as well as the weight of the Merkur 34C HD --  The 34C weighed in at 2.8 oz (on our scale) whereas the 33C weighed in at 2 oz.

The 34C (left) is a little heavier than the 33C.

Between the two I’d have to say that I would opt for the Merkur 34C HD.  I like the heft and I like the two piece construction.  The screw rod on the cap is a little longer than the screw rod on three piece razors.  I’ve written about this feature in a previous post.  While, I didn’t give it much thought first, I do like the longer rods as because I don’t get as much buildup around the threads as I do with the shorter screw rods. 

Unlike the 34C, The Merkur 33C is a 3 piece, safety bar, razor

This isn’t to say the 33C is a bad razor.  I actually find it to be a pretty nice razor. The lighter weight and thinner handle could make it a good option for travel if space in the dopp kit is at a scarcity.

Have you tried the Merkur 33C?  Please leave a comment below. Let us know what you think and how it compares to other Slant Bar Razors.