Merkur Progress Adjustable Safety Razor w/ Case

I've tried many different options from vintage Gillette and GEM to modern options from RazoRock and Parker and none of them provide the close and comfortable shave I get with the Progress set to 3.5. Unfortunately, the plating on the cap started to flake off after ~15 years of use. Since the flaws are right at the edge of the cap, it creates an uneven spot where the blade is exposed and renders the razor unusable. Since I can't seem to just get a replacement cap, I'm tempted to order a new Progress (it's that good), but I may try some of the other options in a similar price range.

This razor has a lot of blade exposure, even on the lowest setting. Unfortunately, it was too much exposure for me. I tried multiple blades. The case also arrived with a crack.

Best shave yet!

I really didn't think I could get any closer of a shave than with my Merkur 34C HD, but I actually do with my new Merkur Progress Adjustable. Took me several shaves figuring the best settings for me, but found at about a 4 to 4.5 I get the best shave. I got a BBS shave with my 34c and the shave with the Progress feels the same but seems to last even longer before I start feeling stubble again. I am even comfortable skipping a shaving day and don't look like a vagabond. I recommend starting out at lower settings and "slowly" stepping it up to more aggressive settings. I think I jumped a bit too quickly and got a nice nick under my nose, but totally my fault. I also feel like the Progress bends the blades a bit more so your angle could be a bit more shallow if you are used to the 34c or other safety razors. This is my 4th razor now, yes I have R.A.D. (Razor Acquisition Disorder), and is now my favorite and go-to razor.