Rockwell 6C Review (Worth Buying in 2026?)

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This in-depth Rockwell 6C safety razor review covers its adjustability, shaving experience, build quality, and price—so you can decide whether the Rockwell 6C is still worth buying in 2026.

I’ve been using the Rockwell 6C on a weekly basis for the past seven years. In my opinion, it is more accurate to think of the Rockwell 6C as a safety razor system rather than a typical fixed razor like the Merkur 34C. Thanks to its interchangeable base plates, the 6C allows you to adjust shaving efficiency to suit your skin, beard type, and personal preferences.

Adjustability/Interchangeable Base Plates

The biggest advantage the Rockwell 6C has over other popular razors like the Merkur 34C and Edwin Jagger DE89 is the fact that you can change the base plates. Changing the base plates influences the blade exposure which is just a fancy way of saying that it makes the razor more mild or efficient.

In simple terms, if you shave daily then you want to go with a mild base plate while if you need to shave off longer stubble (say you haven’t shaved for 3-5 days), then you can use a more aggressive base plates.

For example, for a comfortable daily shave I would probably choose between base plates 2-4. But if I’m shaving off slightly longer stubble, then I’ll gravitate towards base plates 5 and 6.

Base plate 1 is really geared towards absolute beginners, i.e people who are first starting to shave with a safety razor. For everyone else, it’s just too mild and you’ll end up doing multiple passes just to get a clean shave.

With that said, none of the Rockwell 6C base plates are excessively aggressive. All offer a comfortable shave with increasing efficiency with higher plate numbers.

Shaving Experience

I’ve gotten some of my best shaves with the Rockwell 6C and it’s a safety razor I rate highly.

For daily shaves with short stubble, the base plates 2,3 and 4 offer an amazing comfortable shave that is close but comfortable. And if I need to shave off longer stubble, I can easily increase the efficiency of the 6C by using base plates 5 and 6. Even then, with proper shaving technique, I get a comfortable shave.

This is what makes the Rockwell 6C an amazing choice for a beginner or for someone used to shaving with a safety razor. You can start learning to shave with a safety razor on base plate 1 and then move up as you get better with your technique. This also makes the Rockwell 6C a fantastic razor to gift because of it’s beginner friendly design.

I can’t remember the last time the 6C gave me a cut. Maybe it’s just that my shaving technique has improved over the years but even with regards to shaving irritation like razor burn, I honestly can’t recall the last time I had a bad shave with the 6C. It really is that good!

While safety razors like the Merkur 34C and Edwin Jagger DE89 are great daily shavers, they struggle with longer stubble and this is where the 6C truly shines. That’s why I like to think of the 6C more as a safety razor system than just a simple safety razor. As such, for beginners as well as experienced shavers, I have to recommend the 6C over other razors because of this versatility.

Build Quality

Unlike the more expensive 6S model which is made from stainless steel, the 6C is made from zinc alloy that is chrome plated. Obviously, the 6C is not going to be as durable as the stainless steel 6S but as long as you don’t drop it from a significant height it should last a very long time.

I’ve used the 6C for over 7 years now and it’s held up incredibly well. I’ve even dropped it in the sink a few times as it slipped from my hands while shaving and has not as much gotten a dent.

What has however happened with my 6C is that it has developed a beautiful patina which makes it look vintage cool!

Colors

Which takes me to the two finishes that are available for the 6C; white chrome and gunmetal. The white chrome is your typical white/silver finish similar to the Merkur 34C and the Edwin Jagger DE89. Nothing unique but still a beautiful looking razor.

Personally I prefer the gunmetal chrome which is a dark gray rustic finish that ages and develops a patina over time. Both finishes are great and it’s really personal preference whichever you choose.

Rockwell 6C Weight and Dimensions

The Rockwell 6C feels substantial (not heavy) in the hands at around 100 grams. It doesn’t feel head heavy and just feels well balanced. The length is around 3.8 inches which makes it really easy and comfortable to hold in the hand and maneuver while shaving.

The weight remains approximately the same regardless of whichever base plate you use.

Price

The Rockwell 6C retails for $60 for both the white chrome and gunmetal finishes. This is slightly more than the Merkur 34C which retails for $45. But for the extra $15 you spend, you get an adjustable razor which is more versatile.

From personal experience, the Merkur 34C is a fantastic daily shaver, but it can struggle with longer stubble if you have not shaved for four or five days. With the Rockwell 6C, you can simply switch to a more efficient base plate (plate 5 or 6) and still achieve a comfortable, close shave.

Rockwell 2C vs 6C

The Rockwell 2C and the 6C are essentially the same razor except that the 2C package comes with just 1 base plate (1 and 3) while the 6C comes with 3 base plates (1 to 6).

Personally, I would recommend getting the 6C because the extra base plates give you more options for shaving longer stubble.

Conclusion

I hope you enjoyed this review on the Rockwell 6C. Having owned and used this razor for many years I really got to appreciate the impressive shave and build quality the 6C delivers. Its adjustability truly makes it very much a buy-once safety razor—one you can realistically use for years, if not decades.

F.A.Q’s

Can the Rockwell 6C be used on the body?

Absolutely! The 6C is a great option for body shaving because you can use milder base plates to ensure a comfortable shave regardless of whether you are shaving your arms, legs or chest. In fact, plenty of men and women use the 6C for body shaving!

Where is the Rockwell 6C made?

The Rockwell 6C is made in China but don’t let that dissuade you from the razor. It’s made incredibly well with tight tolerances and excellent build quality.

How does the Rockwell 6C compare to the 6S?

The Rockwell 6C is made from chrome plated metal alloy while the 6S is made from stainless steel. This makes the 6S more durable long-term. The 6S is also slightly heavier. There are more differences that we cover in our dedicated Rockwell 6C vs 6S article which can help you decide which razor is best for you!