Wet Shaving
Arizona Shave Kit: Fiddler's Friend Soap and the Ollie Works Meteorite Razor
A practical look at a new artisan shave soap, a matching aftershave, and a stainless steel three-piece razor that pairs well with a mild blade.
Introduction
A well-chosen shave kit can turn a daily routine into something worth looking forward to. This particular lineup brings together an artisan soap with a long backstory, a matching aftershave, a stainless steel razor from a smaller maker, and a blade that leans mild. Each piece has a clear role, and together they form a cohesive setup that is easy to recommend to wet shavers who appreciate thoughtful details.
The Soap: PAA Fiddler’s Friend
PAA Fiddler’s Friend is a new release from Phoenix Artisan Accoutrements, and it has an interesting origin. The scent was originally created at the request of a friend who played the fiddle, made in a very limited quantity years ago. Word of the scent spread, and it became something of a collector’s item, reportedly selling for around $150 on auction sites. It was later released again as part of a 2025 Advent calendar, and now it is available as a standalone soap and aftershave.
The scent profile includes bergamot, citrus, oak moss, cedarwood, and patchouli. The top notes of bergamot and cedarwood come through clearly, and the overall blend is described as very good. The soap itself performs well, producing a slick lather that provides good glide throughout the shave. It is a well-rounded offering for anyone who appreciates a complex, earthy-citrus scent with a story behind it.

For those who missed the Advent calendar release, this standalone version is a welcome opportunity to try the scent without hunting down a limited edition. The slickness of the lather makes it a solid choice for daily shaving, and the scent lingers pleasantly without being overpowering.
The Razor: Ollie Works Meteorite
The Ollie Works Meteorite is a three-piece stainless steel razor that has been used before and continues to impress. The handle features sharp knurling that makes it very easy to hold, even with wet hands. The razor is available in several color options for the brush and bowl components, with red being a standout choice, while the razor itself is stainless steel.
This razor pairs well with a variety of blades, and the combination used here delivered a smooth, comfortable shave. The three-piece design is straightforward to assemble, and the blade sits securely on the cap with no overhang. It is a well-built tool that feels solid in hand and provides consistent results.

For anyone looking for a reliable stainless steel razor from a smaller maker, the Meteorite is worth considering. The sharp knurling and solid construction make it a practical choice for both beginners and experienced wet shavers.
The Blade: Wilkinson Sword Gillette
The Wilkinson Sword Gillette blade is described as mild, which makes it a good match for the Ollie Works Meteorite razor. The combination worked very well, providing a close shave without irritation. Mild blades are often a good starting point for those new to double edge razors, as they are forgiving and less likely to cause nicks.
Blade preferences vary from person to person, and what works well for one shaver may not suit another. The benefit of a double edge razor system is the wide range of blade choices available, allowing each person to find the option that works best for their skin and beard type. The Wilkinson Sword Gillette is a solid mild option that pairs nicely with a well-balanced razor.

For those who prefer a more aggressive shave, a sharper blade may be a better fit. But for a smooth, comfortable daily shave, this mild blade is a dependable choice.
The Aftershave: PAA Fiddler’s Friend
The PAA Fiddler’s Friend aftershave matches the soap in scent and delivers a noticeable, pleasant burn upon application. The blend of multiple scents comes through clearly, and the aftershave leaves the skin feeling refreshed. For those who enjoy a traditional alcohol-based splash with a strong scent presence, this is a fitting companion to the soap.
The aftershave is part of the same release as the soap, making it easy to build a matching set. The scent profile carries over well, and the burn is described as a good one, which many traditional wet shavers appreciate. It is a straightforward, no-frills aftershave that does its job well.

For anyone who already enjoys the Fiddler’s Friend soap, the matching aftershave is a natural addition. It completes the experience and leaves a lasting impression of the scent.
Buying Advice
This kit works best for wet shavers who appreciate artisan products with a story, a mild blade for daily comfort, and a well-built stainless steel razor. The soap and aftershave pair together nicely, and the razor and blade combination delivers a smooth shave. If you prefer a more aggressive blade, you may want to experiment with other options, but the mild Wilkinson Sword Gillette is a reliable starting point.
Conclusion
The Arizona shave kit brings together four products that each serve a clear purpose. The Fiddler’s Friend soap and aftershave offer a distinctive scent with a rich backstory, while the Ollie Works Meteorite razor provides solid stainless steel construction and easy handling. The Wilkinson Sword Gillette blade rounds out the setup with a mild, comfortable shave. Together, they make a cohesive and enjoyable shaving experience worth trying.



