I also abandoned the whole multi-blade game. A nice stainless steel double-edge safety razor lasts forever. The one I have was made in the 60’s, and I got it for five bucks off of eBay. I get a hundred blades for ten bucks. I only shave once a week, but I change out the blade each time. The fact that this inexpensive, robust solution has become the exception rather than the rule is a testament to our vulnerability to marketing.
This. Double and triple blades are designed for the fine work of smoothing stubble, not the coarser work of clearing hair. If you don;t want to use a trimmer, try switching to a single blade razor.
Thanks for all of the advice. BTW, I do use an electric trimmer prior to shaving to get as much off as I can. Based on what I have heard here, I am now in the market for a traditional safety razor. Looking forward to a better shave. 