This is a beautiful razor, well balanced and yes, it is heavy. Because of the balance I found I can easily use a light touch to glide the blade over the skin. The weight helps to keep the razor steady. The head is big so shaving under the nose requires a bit more effort, but doable. My beard is average, and my skin tends to be a bit sensitive, so I found setting 2 and 3 too aggressive for now. I feel I need to get used to this at setting 1 for a couple of weeks. Sometimes I let a few days to a week go without shaving, so I envisage the higher settings will come in handy to reduce on a first pass.
As this is the chrome model, I was conscious of the possibility that this could be slippery. I have not found it so. I think because you hold the handle where the indented part of the shaft is, this gives sufficient grip and control. Having said that, I always make sure I do not have soap on my hands, wet hands are fine.
Loading blades is easy but you have to think about what you are doing. It could be possible to cut yourself and I have seen reviews where the razor is criticized because you have to grip the head while changing settings. My response would be - learn your tool! All DE Razors can cut you if you don't respect them. I am experimenting with different blades and techniques which is all part of the joy that goes with traditional wet shaving.
