Thread: Need Some Help With My First Razor: Restorable? Hone? First Shave Recs?

Hi all,

My name's Darron. I've been lurking for a few months, but have not posted anything. I've always wanted a straight razor, but the cost has been prohibitive. This Christmas, though, my wife talked to her father about my obsession, and he gave me his grandfather's razor. Yep, I'm about to start shaving with my great-grandfather's razor, and I'm very excited.

Here are some pics:










First, does anyone have information about the razor or company? The box says "The Hollinger Cutlery Company," and the blade says "The National Razor Company." I did some research, and I think the company was in operation for a couple of decades in the early 1900's, but I can't find any information about the quality of the steel.

Second, does anyone see any problems with the restoration of the blade? I see some discoloration in a few spots, and a tiny chip on one side, but I think with some honing, it won't be a problem.

Third, I live in central Indiana, in Winona Lake. Does anyone know of any trusted places local to me? I'd like to take the razor in to an expert, and have them look at it. I don't want to take this thing into a local chump, though.

Fourth, is there anything you all would do before you used this thing on your face? Maybe other than honing? I've read through most of the beginner sections of the forum, but I don't want to miss anything.

Fifth, is there any general advice any of you would give me? Would love to hear any/all.

I appreciate all of your help! Thanks for reading. I'm really excited to start!

~Darron

Looks like it's in great shape. You wouldn't have to do anything other than clean it up and hone, but I would that leave it to a professional like Glen or Max or whoever is closest to you. Check the list out here...Member Services - Straight Razor Place Classifieds

Your razor was made by the National Razor Manufacturing Co., Lisbon Ohio. They were also manufactured in Fremont Ohio. Made from 1919 to 1923. The box is from Fremont Ohio but not sure if
hollinger was part of the same company. Nice razor. Good luck and enjoy.

Don't know much about your razor. I do have a Clauss razor that was also made in Fremont ohio and I absolutely love it. If my Clauss razor is any indication on other razors produced there then you have a great shaver.

That razor will clean up nice and be a fine first shaver. I agree with sending it out with one of the guys already suggested above. Just buy a strop and some soap and go to town with it. The only other thing I would suggest to all "newbies" is to always remember not to pressure the razor on your face and be diligent in stretching your skin as you make a pass with the razor. Most nicks and bleeders come from pressing the razor and lack of stretching.

Have fun and how cool that you are starting out with a razor that has history in your wife's family.

im new so my advice might not be worth much , but like was said before to properly use this heirloom , send it to one of the guys who do this and it will be in great shape for you to carry on the tradition. good luck tc

Originally Posted by kwlfca

Looks like it's in great shape. You wouldn't have to do anything other than clean it up and hone, but I would that leave it to a professional like Glen or Max or whoever is closest to you. Check the list out here...Member Services - Straight Razor Place Classifieds

Thanks for the tip! I didn't realize that the services page existed on the classifieds. Do you think it would be better to go for someone close, or whoever is best? Or is everyone qualified there? Thanks again!

Darron! Welcome!

Having an Heirloom to start off with is fantastic!!

You’ve already been given the history of the razor, but you also asked about ‘Restoration’!

Before sending it out for a Professional Hone, try using some well crumpled newspaper and some Mothers Mag Wheel Polish or some MASS on the blade.

Keep the blade flat on a firmly cushioned surface and rub in circles. The paper will turn black but keep at it! When the paper starts to finally wear out, use just plain crumpled newspaper and go up and down the blade until the paper is once again very worn. Then switch sides and repeat.

Once you’ve done both sides, put a drop or two of liquid dishwashing soap on the blade and wash it well. Then dry it and see your results!

Repeat the above with old T-shirt type material! Then once again wash the razor and Dry Very Well; I think that you will find your results well worth the effort!

I have a favorite Pro for honing and restoration he’s GSSIXGUN.

"Most nicks and bleeders come from pressing the razor and lack of stretching."

coachmike, thanks. I needed the reminder.

Cheers

Every honer has a comments section, please read the reviews.