Let's get the service out of the way first. Easy to order, quick delivery and well packaged. No issues at all. Happy all around.
I purchased the satin version so I can only speak for that model. While the blade loading is not difficult it is different than most razors. A dry or damp towel or wash cloth can aid you in preventing cuts while loading/unloading. I recommend that setup while adjusting the razor's settings also. Shaving should be relaxing not a panicked trip to the ER. I tend to go to one less than the maximum setting on any adjustable for a first shave. It provides me with two experiences when I shave again at the highest setting. Good feedback, nicely weighted and easy to achieve just enough pressure to maintain contact. Dialing down a few notches I proceeded to shave across the grain and was pleasantly surprised at it's performance. I can't speak for the other models but the satin showed a nice gliding ability while using different soaps. Dialed down again and no issues with against the grain. The quality, fit and finish are very nice. Is this going to solve problems that new users have with their current razor? No, and barring physical damage or defect to a razor, no other razor is going to fix the need to learn good technique. Ever wondered how Geo goes from razor to razor without being a bloodied mess? Technique, take your time, learn it and it will serve you well. People do no one a favor when they hop around from razor to razor when they haven't mastered technique first. They don't help when they mention that they only cut themselves once and/or got weepers. You shouldn't be cutting yourself at all. This Merkur Futur should last a long time and may end up being passed down someday. Great price and a quality razor.