Thread: Short Razor

I want to purchase my first straight razor, but I have a full (fairly well carved out) beard and feel that a straight razor will help me keep my beard trimmed better than the Gillette Sensor disposable heads I've been using for 20 years (never too late to start!). However, in reading some of the posts about how people shave around and trim goatees (vandykes) and full beards, it seems that a shorter straight razor is more nimble for trimming small spots, like the often empty or sparse patches on either side of the "soul patch." I noticed that Shooter recommended using a short straight razor that is 2 inches in length by 5/8 wide, here: http://straightrazorpalace.com/shavi...-goatee-3.html. However, Shooter posted a pic of a vintage razor and I'd like to find a similar configuration in a new razor.

I've been searching to no avail, so does anyone know of a short (or small) straight razor currently in production from a reputable brand? Preferably spike or French point, but I'll take anything at this stage in my search!

If not, was there a vintage maker who produced such small blades and where might I find them?

Thanks!

WELCOME! You have good timing! Look in the classifieds. There are THREE Dubl Duck Dwarfs for sale for a cheap price they are about 2.5 inches from what the add says. Dubl Duck is a good brand from what I have learned. Although I haven't bought from the seller but he has a strong rep. in the forums, so I don't think you are taking a huge risk.

Take care,
Gabe

BTW- I keep my edges fresh with my straight and it is much better than using my trusty Andis Styleliner. Definitely a good choice for you.

I know the seller personally he is a good dude and knows his stuff.

Shavingshop.com has 4/8 wapis with french points. That would be a great blade for what you want to use it for

Shavettes are good for Van Dykes.

I've been experimenting.

Even the "short" straights aren't really all that much shorter as far as making any real difference. To my knowledge no one makes a short razor these days unless you have one of the custom makers do one for you. The only real alternative would be a Traditional Japanese Straight which really is shorter but you would have to learn how to use it.

Thanks Ramusico and Khaos for the tips on the Dubl Duck dwarf. I'm about to buy one.

As for the Japanese blades, they peak my interest, but I think there's room for a Tosuke in my arsenal. I'm sure there's plenty of info on the Japanese blades, but maybe I'll try a Western style first. Though the Feather Artist Club blades were what got me to look into this whole thing.

I appreciate all the great info!

Some members here have cracked blades, and instead of throwing them out, regrind them down to a 1.5 or 2" cutting edge. You might want to post a wanted ad in the classifieds.

This Joseph Elliot's Autocrat is small and superb!
Get one when you see it.

J ELLIOT Sheffield Straight Razor AUTOCRAT Silver Steel - eBay (item 330353366541 end time Aug-26-09 18:00:00 PDT)

I have a goatee and use standard lenght 5/8 and 6/8 razors-- no problem at all for me.

On my WTG passes, I go from ear to mouth, letting the goatee stop the razor.

When I'm done with my third ATG pass, I then go back and relather the goatee line, and lay the razor on the goatee and shave *away* to trim it up. I don't try to shave up and down along the goatee line.

Take care
-Chief