The short answer
A good handle with cheap replacement blades, hot water and time, and shave with the grain first. Blade cost per shave matters far more than the number of blades.
- Shave after a shower, or after a hot flannel on the skin for a minute. Warm, damp hair cuts far more easily.
- Use a proper shaving cream or soap and a brush. It costs little per shave and works much better than gel from a can.
- With the grain first. Across it only if you need to go closer, and against it only if you must.
- No pressure. Let the blade do it. Pressure is what causes irritation and nicks.
- Rinse the blade constantly, and dry it after use. Blades blunt from corrosion as much as from cutting.
What will ruin it
Shaving against the grain on the neck is the main cause of ingrown hairs and razor bumps. If you get them, that is the habit to change before buying anything.
Why it works
The cost of shaving is almost entirely blades, and blade life is mostly determined by how it is stored and rinsed rather than how many shaves it has done.
Tipking is general household information, not professional advice. Test anything on a hidden patch first. Full disclaimer.