Originally Posted by
Bruno
I have read that all sheffield steel sent to the colonies was of inferior quality to prevent them from using sheffield steel against England in an armed conflict.
Don't know if that applied to razors as well.
As for why they are not that sought after: hype I guess. I can personally attest that JR made extremely nice razors. W&B is probably a more famous and widespread name.
EDIT: JR were cutlers to 'their majesties' so there is no reason why they should be worse than WB.