Fatip Grande vs. Fatip Piccolo – Here’s The Differences & Similarities
After being asked on numerous occasions, I thought it was best to answer this fully in an article here – Fatip Grande vs. Fatip Piccolo.
After testing, using, and reviewing both the Fatip Grande and Piccolo I found them both very efficient safety razors despite their small size and being quite light in weight.
Very affordable open comb razors that were a pleasure to use, which went above my initial expectations.
The Similarities
The tops or heads of both of these razors are exactly the same. They are both open-combed and come apart and go back together in three parts via the handle.
The aggressiveness of the shave is exactly the same based on blade angle etc.
The Differences
The only difference that creates a few differences is the handle. The Grande has a hollow, wider, and slightly longer handle, and the design is a Greek column type of design that offers less grip than the Piccolo.
The Piccolo handle design being non-hollow, creates a bit more weight, and the deeply engraved vertical lines provide a decent amount of grip. This extra weight can help with making the shave a little easier as weight can assist a user naturally (let the razor do the work kind of thing).
The Grande weighs 66g, and the Piccolo weighs 70g. There’s not a lot between them.
The total length of the Grande is 87 mm, and the Piccolo is 80 mm long. 7 mm is quite a lot, and the Grande has a closer length comparison with many standard safety razors, while the Piccolo equals its size with a smaller collection of razors available on the market (close to a Merkur 42C).
The width of both handles on these Fatip razors is quite different. The Piccolo is much slimmer and slimmer than most, and this can make a difference for some users. Some people will say that those with bigger hands need bigger and/or thicker handles; however, if you look at how we use a safety razor, most of the work is done with our fingertips (fat fingers could make more of a difference I guess).
Any Pros and Cons When Using Either Razor?
Personally, I did not notice much difference after shaving with both. However, after using the Grande first and then the Piccolo, I leaned toward picking up the Piccolo to shave with as I just felt more comfortable with it.
I like weight which can make a difference, and many other guys do too.
The grip is significantly better on the Piccolo. I can’t say I had any issues with the Grande slipping, though, and the Grande handle design is attractive.
The thickness of the handle is very noticeable as soon as the razors are picked up when you have both at hand, like I do. I guess a buyer should go with which type of thickness they prefer, and I did not notice anything in terms of the shave experience apart from, as mentioned –I leaned more toward the Piccolo.
These are both open-comb razors that cut away at whiskers quite easily, and neither lacked the ability to do the job very well.
Which One Should I Choose?
As we have discovered, the Fatip Grande vs. Fatip Piccolo dilemma is just about the handle and the differences that makes. If you prefer longer and/or thicker handles, then the Grande could be the best option.
On the other hand, if grip is really important and a little extra weight, then heading toward the Piccolo might be the best option.
Alternative Razors You Might Like
Both the Fatip Grande and Piccolo are great medium in aggression closed comb razors. However, there are alternative razors that might be worth comparing and considering while you’re on your online search mission for a razor.
Mühle R41
The Mühle R41 can be a bit of a beast of a razor for some guys. It has more aggression than the Fatip Grande and Piccolo, and the blade curves less between the two top caps, which adds to the aggression.
You’ll find the handle on the R41 is longer and thicker, which may suit some gents, and the finish and appearance are quality. It’s certainly a beast of a razor on heavy growth and requires some caution on the first few uses and, of course, the right blade.
See Review: Mühle R41
Merkur 15C
The Merkur 15C is quite a unique safety razor with an interesting mixture of a small and slim handle that’s open-combed. The handle is slimmer than the Grande, and it’s a few grams lighter.
When using the 15C I found it to be less aggressive than the Grande and Piccolo. However, it still does a great job, like other closed comb razors, at cutting through heavier growth.
The handle is knurled, and the 15C just seems to be a bit more solid and has a good finish. The Grande and Piccolo have that extra bit of cutting power, though.
See Review: Merkur 15C
