Outlaw Evolution - A Real (R)evolution

So whats it all about then eh?

So people ask me in emails and chats “what are the major differences between Outlaw Classic and Outlaw Evolution?

Let me tell you firstly why I started down the path of a “new” Outlaw. The Outlaw Classic was launched in 2020 as a joint design venture between Alpha and Executive Shaving. Bryan from Executive Shaving and I had been chatting for a while about doing a razor and we eventually agreed that I would take a very rough razor design that he had and refine it to make it fit for sale. In return for sharing this design I agreed that ES could sell Outlaw under their own name and I would do the same, selling it as the Alpha Outlaw DE. Initially offered in a standard plate only, with two handles options and head only we went on to offer a milder plate marked with a letter ‘M’ in a circle.

The Classic Outlaw received very good reviews and great customer feedback. Alpha went on to offer the Outlaw in Copper and Brass raw polished finishes and these too were widely admired. For information the copper Outlaw numbered 100 pieces only and the brass Outlaw saw only 25 produced - so these are very rare.

The Classic SS316L Outlaw saw thousands made and delivered, giving happy and efficient shaves worldwide!!

Now, onto the Outlaw Evolution - building on the success of the Classic Outlaw I wanted to build a razor that was efficient, good looking and could become an every day favorite. I wanted to tighten the tolerances, increase blade clamping and freshen up the razor bringing the design firmly up to date. The result speaks for itself - a modern, “tight” razor giving just the right amount of blade feel and an efficient shave experience.

I decided to launch the Evo in Titanium with SS316L following up later

The main differences are:

  • Over 300% more blade clamped area giving less blade chatter

  • 6% wider top gap giving less free blade

  • Re-engineered safety bar with a smoother feel for that perfect shave

  • Less rounded angles all round resulting in a modern look

  • 6% less weight in the razor head giving a better balance

  • A choice of 2 new handles with a sweet knurled barber pole design

New Handle designs - for titanium only (A Razor Stand also available - sold seperately)

  • The Viper ‘95 Flat Spiral handle is 95mm long and made in titanium. 13mm diameter

  • The Bravo ‘85 Flat Spiral handle is 85mm long, made in machined titanium and is 13mm in diameter

Titanium vs 316L steel: choosing an Outlaw Evolution

Outlaw Evolution is offered in titanium and 316L stainless steel. Both product pages list a 0.70mm blade gap. Choosing between them therefore calls for a closer look at the material, handle and complete configuration, rather than assuming the more expensive metal must give a closer shave.

Start with the shared specification

The Outlaw Evolution Titanium page describes a CNC-machined titanium razor. The Outlaw Evolution 316L page specifies solid 316L stainless steel. Both are double-edge models, so their blade format differs from the Artist Club style format used by Spirit SE.

The shared 0.70mm gap is useful information, but it does not measure every aspect of the shave. Do not read it as a promise that all configurations will feel identical. The selected handle, blade, assembly and your technique remain relevant.

Density and complete weight are different facts

Titanium has a lower density than 316L stainless steel. For equal volumes of these materials, titanium weighs less. A finished razor, however, is not a standard block of metal: head construction, handle dimensions and the amount of material all contribute to its total weight.

The current Outlaw listings do not give a complete weight for every selectable combination. It would therefore be misleading to claim that a particular titanium Outlaw is a precise percentage lighter than every steel version. If weight is your deciding factor, ask for the assembled weight with your chosen handle.

Think about balance as well as the number of grams. Where the mass sits can affect how a razor feels when held near the head or near the handle end. Your preferred grip is a useful reference when comparing options.

Choose the handle deliberately

The titanium listing offers Bravo 85 Spiral and Viper 95 Spiral choices. The steel listing offers several handles, including Braveheart Sure Grip, Viper 95, Bravo Super Grip and flat spiral options. Check the actual selector and dimensions for the combination you are considering.

A longer handle is not automatically easier to control, and a heavier handle is not a substitute for light shaving pressure. Consider where your fingers sit, which texture you prefer and whether your present handle feels too long, short, narrow or broad.

Keep care simple and finish-specific

Both materials still need rinsing and drying. Corrosion resistance does not make a razor immune to residue, water marks or damage from unsuitable cleaners. Remove the blade before detailed cleaning and start with a soft cloth or brush and mild washing-up liquid.

Do not polish blade-contact surfaces to make them look like the exterior. Alpha notes that some functional areas are intentionally left as machined. Preserving those surfaces matters more than achieving the same shine everywhere.

Make the choice around a real preference

  • Choose the metal and exterior appearance you enjoy.

  • Select a handle by dimensions and grip.

  • Obtain the complete configuration weight if grams matter to you.

  • Check included components and finish details.

  • Keep a familiar blade and preparation while learning the razor.

Titanium and steel are material choices within the Outlaw Evolution range, not a ranking of shaving skill. Compare the complete razor you would actually use, then judge its handling and result through careful, consistent shaves.

Alpha Outlaw Evolution Wireframe

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