The Henson AL13 Safety Razor: Engineering Excellence for the Perfect Shave
The Henson AL13 Safety Razor represents a paradigm shift in shaving technology, moving away from the traditional razor-and-blade business model. Engineered with aerospace precision in Canada, this aluminum razor is designed to deliver a spectacular shave using inexpensive generic blades that cost just pennies. Unlike conventional multi-blade systems that prioritize blade sales, Henson focuses on creating a superior handle that precisely controls blade angle and rigidity, resulting in smoother shaves with significantly reduced skin irritation. This professional-grade grooming tool offers both exceptional performance and long-term value for discerning users.
In the crowded world of personal grooming products, where marketing often outweighs engineering, the Henson AL13 Safety Razor stands out as a remarkable exception. This Canadian-engineered device challenges conventional wisdom by proving that exceptional shaving performance doesn't require expensive proprietary blades. Instead, Henson has focused its engineering expertise on creating a razor handle so precise and well-designed that it transforms inexpensive generic blades into premium shaving instruments.
Aerospace Engineering Meets Personal Grooming
Henson's origins in aerospace manufacturing provide crucial insight into why their razor performs so exceptionally. The company has contributed components to significant projects like the Mars rover, bringing space-grade precision to everyday grooming. This background manifests in the AL13's construction, which features aluminum machined at their Ontario facility with tolerances of just 0.00025 inches—approximately one-twelfth the thickness of a human hair. Unlike disposable razors with plastic components, the Henson features all-aluminum construction with stainless steel bushings, creating a durable tool built to last for years.
The Revolutionary Business Model
Henson fundamentally reverses the traditional razor-and-blade business model pioneered by companies like Gillette. Where traditional manufacturers sell handles cheaply to lock consumers into expensive proprietary blades, Henson charges a premium for an exceptionally engineered handle that works beautifully with generic double-edged blades costing as little as 15 cents each. This approach not only saves consumers money long-term but also represents a more honest relationship between manufacturer and customer—you invest in quality engineering once, then enjoy affordable maintenance.
Precision Engineering for Superior Performance
The secret to the Henson razor's exceptional performance lies in its precise blade control system. The razor head consists of two aluminum components that dovetail together and are compressed using the screw-on handle. This creates extreme rigidity that holds the blade at a precise, consistent angle, eliminating the blade chatter that causes skin irritation in less precisely engineered razors. The blade exposure is minimal—only about half the width of a hair protrudes from the head—requiring close inspection to even see the cutting edge.
Practical Benefits and User Experience
Users report consistently excellent shaves with the Henson razor, noting its combination of closeness and comfort. The razor's design minimizes skin irritation, with the company's medical imaging studies showing it causes approximately one-third the irritation of multi-blade razors. The machined aluminum handle provides both aesthetic appeal and practical functionality, featuring a textured surface that maintains a secure grip even when wet. While the company offers proprietary shaving cream, users achieve excellent results with standard shaving products, making the system both high-performance and accessible.
Long-Term Value and Maintenance
The Henson razor represents a significant upfront investment compared to disposable options, but delivers exceptional long-term value. Each generic blade typically lasts about a week with regular use, meaning the 100-blade pack often included with purchase provides approximately two years of shaving. For maintenance, users find that slightly unscrewing the handle during rinsing helps prevent hair accumulation between components, ensuring consistent performance and easy cleaning.
Conclusion: A New Standard in Shaving Technology
The Henson AL13 Safety Razor represents more than just another grooming product—it demonstrates how thoughtful engineering can transform everyday experiences. By focusing on precision manufacturing and rejecting the traditional razor-and-blade business model, Henson has created a tool that delivers superior performance while respecting both consumers' skin and wallets. For those seeking an upgrade from disposable razors or cartridge systems, the Henson offers a compelling combination of engineering excellence, long-term value, and exceptional shaving results that justify its position as a premium grooming instrument.
