Are razor blade makers just ensuring a big cut?

Patrick Kane, senior brand manager for the Schick Hydro line, said pretty much the same.

"In general, blade life depends on hair thickness, frequency of shaving, prep usage, pre-shave routine, post-shave routine, technique and brand," he said. "Because of this, blades will wear out faster or slower based on these particular variables."

In any case, you'd think the possibility of longer-lasting blades would represent a huge opportunity for any company that wants in on the razor market. Unfortunately, the barriers to entry are high.

Without the economies of scale enjoyed by Gillette and Schick, it's very difficult for a competitor to leap in with a new product, especially if that product is introduced at the jaw-dropping price of about $100 for a single razor blade.

The math might make sense for a blade lasting years, but not all men will see value in plunking down a C-note for a razor.

So what's a fellow with a 5 o'clock shadow to do? Well, even if you can't get a state-of-the-art blade, you can at least trim your grooming bills.

Among various discount-razor outfits online, a Venice company called Dollar Shave Club will mail you five twin-blade cartridges for just $3 a month, which includes shipping costs. Four- and six-blade razors are available for a little more.

Michael Dubin, the chief executive of privately held Dollar Shave Club, was cagey when I asked him how he can operate so cheaply, or even if his company is profitable. He cited competitive reasons for not answering.

But Dubin shared my frustration about the lack of innovation from the market behemoths.

"The big boys put on a vibrating handle or even a small flashlight, and they call that innovation," he said. "I'd call that superfluous."

I'd call it a pretty good racket.

David Lazarus' column runs Tuesdays and Fridays. He also can be seen daily on KTLA-TV Channel 5 and followed on Twitter @Davidlaz. Send your tips or feedback to david.lazarus@latimes.com.