Thread: Are these worth buying for a newbie?

Hi guys,

I am looking at purchasing my first straight razor in order to learn the craft of straight shaving, and I've read that it's a good idea to start with multiple, vintage blades to hone your skills on before purchasing a brand new blade.

I found these two vintage blades on the Australian auction site gumtree and I'm wondering whether you think they are worth buying

2 X CUT THROATS/ STRAIGHT RAZORS | Other Antiques, Art & Collectables | Gumtree Australia Logan Area - Cornubia | 1098749037

Thanks in advance

Zero indication on the maker, and you cannot see the stamp on the tang in the pictures....

Scales have a rather *new* look to them... I'd be careful and ask about the makers stamp on the tang first, if it sounds OK, a close up inspection would be next.

Based on the description, my gut instinct says nope.... but there really isn't enough information as it stands. There IS however, enough information to warrant treading lightly and carefully. There is no way I would buy those razors without an in-hand inspection. On the other hand, buying a vintage razor from an SRP member with some years on his belt is a pretty safe bet and I frequently do so, and I have NEVER been disappointed.

As this is your first purchase, I recommend you stay away from such purchases and either buy a used, shave ready razor from the classifieds on SRP, or at the very least from a reputable dealer such as SRD. I learned the hard way, by myself, on an old antique store razor, with crappy hones and honing films on glass.... an experience I'd just as soon not relive. It worked out fine and I'm the better straight razor shaver for it, but it was a hard row to hoe as they say.

As for local AU proprietors, perhaps some other gents will chime in, as I have no knowledge of your end of the world. All I can say is "Please Please Please, do NOT rush into this!" If you start off on the right foot, with the right blade and proper preparation, you will enjoy the experience. Rush it, and you will most likely NOT have a good experience and have to fight your way to a decent shave or possibly give up trying and go back to those multi-blade monstrosities.

Regards

Christian

Thanks for your reply Christian

I agree that the both photo and the description are lacking in detail which is cause for concern so I think I'll take your advice and look to the classifieds. I guess the big attraction here was saving on shipping but as you say, it's better to do it right the first time rather than waste time and money.

Cheers

I'd be wary of these Charlie; if you want a good razor head to the SRP classifieds. You'll get a good deal on a good razor from fellow forum members.

I wouldn't say be wary, but I would say, given your circumstances, don't get these.

The seller offers local pickup. This means you can inspect these and talk to the man in person. Always a good thing and I am very appreciative of this approach.

$30 AU a piece does not seem so bad and IF you manage to get them to shave, they will likely retain this value, especially if you later sell them shave-ready.

The problem is, you don't know if they can take a shaving edge i.e. if they can be honed at all (and without 7 layers of tape applied on the spine). This is a serious risk for anyone. If you think about it, add $20-30 and you can get a decent shaver. My view has been and always will be, one good razor is better than a dozen bad ones, if your aim is to use it.

Originally Posted by Maladroit

I'd be wary of these Charlie; if you want a good razor head to the SRP classifieds. You'll get a good deal on a good razor from fellow forum members.

Follow this advice.

Add says that they are NOT shave ready. Get something that is instead

Those have the look of new production garbage. Steer clear.

NO! Find some knowledgeable Aussie brethren here to bounce local finds off of. Those are Chinese-made Junk, IMO
Take your time. Something good new-production or vintage will show up.

Originally Posted by Maladroit

I'd be wary of these Charlie; if you want a good razor head to the SRP classifieds. You'll get a good deal on a good razor from fellow forum members.

I agree with the written.