Recently I tested and reviewed both the Rockwell 6C and Rockwell 6S after spending a month or so shaving with them under various conditions (i.e., 2, 3, and 4 days growth, various settings, head shaving, etc.).
The Rockwell’s are on my list of best adjustable razors that have interchangeable and reversible base plates, which is a unique and patented design. This is quite different from other adjustable safety razors that adjust with a dial setting.
I had a lot of fun using both razors, and it took a good few shaves to get comfortable with using them and finding the best settings for the occasion.
In this article, we’re going to do a Rockwell 6S vs. 6C and tell you guys about any differences and if there was any difference in the shaving experience.
Difference in Features
There is not a lot between them actually, although what is different is going to be important for some gents. I’m not going to go into all the features of both of them; just the differences will suffice.
Rockwell 6C
Materials & Finish – Chromed zinc alloy. Chrome finish.
Weight – 100 g
Made – China
Cost – $50 USD
Rockwell 6S
Materials & Finish – Grade 316 stainless steel, matte finish.
Weight – 116 g
Made – USA
Cost – $100 USD
––Materials & Finish – The major advantage of the 6S, and why it costs a lot more, is it’s made from stainless steel. Stainless steel is more durable and can last a lifetime, and the thread on the handle is less likely to wear or get damaged. Chrome finish can wear over time but some users can find it more attractive.
—Weight – Both models are very weighty, and to be fair, the 16g extra the 6S should not make much of a difference. It isn’t really noticeable.
—Manufactured – While the 6C is made in China this does not mean it is not made with just as much attention or lacks any workmanship. However, some consumers like to support their own countries’ industries which is fair enough.
—Cost – Well, the cost is a huge difference of 50%. If a buyer is not looking for a lifetime razor, then is the extra $50 worth it?
Was There Any Difference in How They Shaved?
There was no difference at all with blade gaps and the base plate setting needed for each shave I did which should have meant there was no difference while shaving with either of them. There was only one difference I found that did make a difference for me personally.
The difference between these two that was noticeable to me was the Rockwell 6S seemed to drag at times and more so when the lather thinned on my face, whereas the Rockwell 6C just continued to glide.
This dragging along with my preference of how chrome razors look, sold me on preferring the 6C, which is great as it’s cheaper.
Don’t get me wrong; if a user was to make sure they kept enough lather on their face, then this would eliminate any dragging. However, if you’re a head-shaving person like me, then keeping the head well-soaped up is easier said than done.
Final Thoughts
If a buyer wanted a razor that was going to last a lifetime and was happy with a matte finish, then the Rockwell 6S is the one to go for.
However…..
If money was the main decider for a buyer, then the 6C is the obvious choice.
Both the Rockwell 6C and 6S are heavy-duty safety razors with a unique design that many gents use and love. There is no doubt about the quality of razor a buyer gets.
I hope that provides a little clarity around the Rockwell 6C vs. 6S differences and similarities and what sets them apart and aligns them.