My first razor lasted me 20 years without any replacement blades.It was a self sharpening. Now, they found it much more profitable toreplace the blades every year.I've looked for razor with self sharpening blades. I wouldn't mindpaying a little more up front for it, but they don't make them any more.My blades are pretty much unusable after one year now. I have to buya new replacement set for $39.Next, I think they'll discontinue the old blades, forcing you to buy a newrazor as well.