Thread: Damascus Steel Razors

What makes a Damascus steel razor so coveted, or is it? If it is, what makes a Livi or a Zowada so popular. Is it the steel work, the time and patience to make the steel for the blade? I understand craftsmanship but is there something else that I'm missing. I do think the patterns look pretty darn cool though.

gerard

Well from what I know of commerce and human nature coupled with my experience as a goldsmith. I would say that it is partially the Cool factor (come on some of them make me drool) together with keeping up with the Jones plus the fact that some of the custom blades out there are just great razors as well.

I have to add that there are obviously some great artisans out there, some of whom are members of these forums. These people have taken the time to learn how to craft metals into the forms they desire. The guys who are good create works of art, not just tools. If you look at art it costs a bit more than a tool. So first off these gentlemen are producing tools which have pushed there way into the title of art and then add consumers to the picture...When you figure that people have a tendency to want the best. Add to that the limited supply of the best and the cost of hand producing these items. Next you have, very expensive desired items.

As far as why do people pay a premium for a Zowada or a Livi I think most would say its the notion of getting a razor that has been hand crafted by one person from start to finish and all the skill and workmanship it entails. Also the exclusivity of a custom type item.

I like em cuz they're pretty.

- Bob

I hope I don't offend anybody who works with and/or owns Damascus razors, but just because everybody seems to find them pretty, that doesn't make them pretty to my eyes. Sorry, but I actually dislike them. Wouldn't spend a dime on any of them. I'd prefer a mirror polished razor any time.
I realize that I belong to a minority here. At least I've never seem any post saying anything against Damascus steel. Maybe I am the minority?

Thanks, my take away from the answers so far relate to the craft involved not so much the Damascus steel aspect. Yes the do look pretty but if either gentleman crafted a razor for you out of stainless or ceramic for that matter it would be the craftsmanship over anything else.

regards,

gerard