Thread: Cost vs. Quality

Hello all,
I'm looking for a straight razor that is not too expensive. How much should I expect to pay for a quality razor? I already paid for one on the inferior quality list wiki. That was before I stumbled on to this site. Any info. would help....Thanks.
-cla

I really don't see much of a reason to buy razors anywhere but the classifieds here. IMO, current production blades (new blades) are all over priced. You can get a great quality blade, shave ready, for about $40 from a member here. You'll spend at least twice that on a new shave ready blade.

the quality is not the dominant cost factor. usually it's the cosmetic condition and brand name that increase the desirability of a given razor and transferring into the cost.

if you want a razor to shave with the best option is to purchase it from a person who has shaved with that razor already. the more experience that person has, better the chances that they know what that razor should be like.

so, it really is up to what your priorities are.

You can always post on the Classifieds with a WTB (Want to Buy) and give the specs. that you want and see what turns up. That way you can ask for one you like and might get a good offer. It is difficult sometimes to pick up what you want on the Classifieds that are for sale because they do get snatched up.


Richard

Originally Posted by riooso

You can always post on the Classifieds with a WTB (Want to Buy) and give the specs. that you want and see what turns up. That way you can ask for one you like and might get a good offer. It is difficult sometimes to pick up what you want on the Classifieds that are for sale because they do get snatched up.


Richard

Its true. We're all vultures circling the classifieds waiting for the juicy carcass to show up. *cough* err, razor.

You can pretty much count on the fact that any razor listed on the classifieds here is a good deal for what it is. I can't remember the last time I saw one listed and thought "geez, that price is too high." The prices are always just right for what the item is, IMO. Figure on at least $40, but if you plan on spending more (around $60-70 or so), you will find one much easier, and probably in better condition. Just wait for the first one in that price range that is marked "shave ready" and strikes your fancy, and pull the trigger!

I know, the classifieds, Everytime I see a razor that's nice, it's also SOLD. The only Ducks or W&B's I ever see, are sold. The only stuff that's left, is the stuff no one really wants. It's all about timing with the classifieds. Plus, you really need to know what your looking at. Could you imagine being new to Str8's and looking in the classifieds? It would be overwhelming. Let alone, not knowing who you buying from, No Disrespect to our wonderful members, On this forum, you need only be a member to post an add. You don't need any amount of time, or rep or anything.

At least with one of our Vendors, if your not happy for any reason, You get your money back.

Oh, and PJ, See that's my point. If your going to spend 70 bucks on the classifieds, Why not spend it a SRD. for 70 you can get a new dovo honed by Lynn.
What could be better. You know it's going to be top draw, a great shaver, and by the slim chance, your not happy. Lynn and Don will fix it....

Straight razors are not the cheapest way to shave in the initial stages. Strops, hones, soaps, and other things add up in cost. THe good news is that a good razor will hold its value. A vintage razor that is well restored and honed will shave as good or better than anything you can buy new. This is the main reason I prefer English made blades over Solingen made blades. The key is what fits you. If you want something that you can shave with for generations and will be more valuable in years to come, then go vintage from one of the restorers here on SRP. If you want something new that you will be the only one to use, then by from Straight Razor Designs. Some people swear by Dovo, Double Duck, Dorko and many other Solingen blades and many of these can be purchased new. You can even go to your local Art of Shaving store(if you have that) and purchase a Theirs- Issard that they will tell you is shave ready when it is not. Buy one shave ready form someone knowing what that means. For me is was the basic carbon 5/8 Dovo from Classic Shaving pre-honed. Just don't get hung up on one brand or age, a good vintage blade will shave equally with any new, it all depends on the honer.
Good Luck!