Thread: Don't know what to look for in classifieds!

I have posted a few times asking questions about tons of things one questions whether I should buy a new or used razor. I am becoming more convinced I probably would be better off with a used razor or possibly two. My problem is I don't know which prices are fair or not, I don't know how good shave ready listed items are honed. I don't know whether pits and rust have anything to do with the quality of shave (I would guess not but better safe than sorry!!)

If anyone could point me to a cheap quality new razor or a good valued used razor or two in the classifieds that would be amazing. I know that I am asking a lot and would be very grateful even for some tips as to more places to check for used shave ready razors or even what to look for.

Its not a problem dude

From our classifieds as they are at the moment I had a quick browse. If I was you in your position i'd go for this one if I was on a tight budget:

FS: 5/8 GENCO Shave Ready REDUCED!!! - Straight Razor Place Classifieds

If I had a bit more money to spend i'd probably go for this one:

Dovo Bismarck 6/8 Red Celluloid Scales - Straight Razor Place Classifieds

Though that one is a 6/8 size. Its slightly larger than some. I personally prefer a 5/8 but its a good price for what it is. Remember you need a strop as well.

I am about to list few razors, but I am not going to recommend you any of them for the obvious conflict of interest reasons.
If I were you I'd get that Torrey from Mr. Chandler and have him hone it.
Pitting has no bearing on how a razor shaves, but unless it's very superficial you don't want it near the edge. I'd stay away from excessive hone wear as well.

Thanks so far everyone!

I looked at the Torrey you mentioned above offered by Chandler. Should I be worried that it likes to hug one side of the scales?

I vote for you to get the Bismarck. That was the first razor I bought and I absolutely love it.

WOW ... that Bismarck is now in my wish list !!!

I wish I could get the bismark!!! I was trying to get two razors and spend less than I was going to on one new razor. I was going to buy the imitation mother of pearl from straight razor designs for $115 including honing. The bismark would be more costly than that. Anything going for $70 or less would be nice!

The bismark sure is beautiful though.... I seem to like razors with designs on the spines.

Originally Posted by mziter

Thanks so far everyone!

I looked at the Torrey you mentioned above offered by Chandler. Should I be worried that it likes to hug one side of the scales?

It's fairly common for a razor to close other than perfectly centered between the scales. It's not a big deal since it just means that when YOU close the razor, you have to close the razor carefully and make sure it closes properly.

The worst outcome for a razor which does not close properly is that the edge can hit the scale it's veering towards. But again, YOU control the closure and there's plenty of give for you to guide the razor in properly.

Chris L

If it was me, i'd go for quality rather than quantity. The Dovo is a class brand. You wont be disappointed by it. There is no need to 'let the razor rest' or anything like that. If you are going for something which is going to last, you go for quality, dont you?