Thread: First razor, on a budget, found on eBay for a great price...

Well here it is my first straight razor. Don't really know much at all about it other then that it was made in St. Paul, Minnesota. By the Hackett-Walther-Gates Hardware Co. From what information i could find it was made c. 1901-1912 based on the Walther-gates partners. Any other information you guys could share would be very cool. Appears to be quite sharp, it was listed as used, but very good condition.

I'm not familiar with its origin, but one of the guys that like dating and identifying will be along.

I do like the looks of it, especially the smile it sports. It looks like it'll clean up and should make a great shaver.

Congrats!!

Regards,

Howard

Thanks Howard, planning on sending it off to classic shaving to have it honed and cleaned up a bit. Im great a sharpening knives but have never sharpened a straight razor. Figured it would be easier to maintain the edge; then risk ruining the razor.

clean it up? looks clean to me I do like when my razors show their age though. It is a nice looking razor hope you enjoy it

Originally Posted by Jimfishesvt

Thanks Howard, planning on sending it off to classic shaving to have it honed and cleaned up a bit. Im great a sharpening knives but have never sharpened a straight razor. Figured it would be easier to maintain the edge; then risk ruining the razor.

You're very correct about the difference in sharpening a knife and a razor. You can bring some skills from the knife to the razor, but that doesn't usually mean much technique, especially pressure and finesse.

Not trying to change your mind on who to send it to, but they're are excellent restorers and honers here on the forum. If interested in just looking, here's the link. Member Services - Straight Razor Place Classifieds

On clean up, that's really up to your preference. I've left my old, inherited, razors with the patina, etc. on them, but with a purchased one, well, it's just how I feel about the razor and what I think I'd like.

and good shaves!!

Howard

Looks to be in good shape. A rag and bit of polish would probably have it looking much fresher. I imagine it will shave just fine after a little trip on the hones. Happy shaving!

Howard and Sinnfien- I think all it really needs is a good strop, and honing. I too love the peacock colors of the patina.

Thanks everyone for your comments and insight.

Looks like a nice razor and I like the handle I've not seen that before. I'd probably just give it a hand polish with a rag and leave it at that. Good luck and let us know how it goes