Thread: Help evaluating eBay Puma?

Any thoughts on this one? Should I try for it? It looks very nice to me, but I'm new and don't know much.

(I'm almost embarrased to admit it, but along with the name Puma, the box was what really caught my eye. I'd dearly love to have that.)

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll...2439&rd=1&rd=1

Thanks,
Michael

Riiight... where do I start

I love these boxes myself.

The blade is not a Puma - it's a Heljestrand. If you really want a Puma - that's not the one to go for

Cheers
Ivo

Originally Posted by izlat

The blade is not a Puma - it's a Heljestrand.

...not that there's anything wrong with that.

Heljestrand is a good razor then?

Yes. That particular example has significant hone wear at the toe, so I wouldn't bid on it. I've got an excellent condition Heljestrand #31 (same model) with genuine ivory scales that I picked up for $10 a few months ago.

If you are new to ebay razors:

- the blade should be as wide on the heel as on the toe. the middle may be a bit wider still, but it should definitely not be narrower.
- there should be little honewear on the spine.
- there should not be rust / nicks / cracks

of course. you might buy this one simply for the box, and that is nothing to be ashamed of.
and if you are into restoration, the only thing that matters is if it is possible to make something decent out of it. rust, wear etc are all ok, so long as the core of the blade is still intact, and you are willing to spend lots ot time on it.

The pin on top seems to be replaced or the lower pin is broken?
I Can´t exactly tell by viewing the pictures?

As Bruno has mentioned, if you are or going to be in restoration it could become a good piece some day even though it´s a little worn.

I would not recommend it to a newbie to start with, though.

That box isn't in particularly good condition. If you really want one, just pick up one with an actual puma razor. They show up reasonably often on ebay. Pumas are good razors.

Some sharp eyed fellows here. Take their advise and wait for the real deal in good condition, but also be prepared to pay. Good Puma razors don't go cheap.