Newbie question about Illinois razors

First of all, hello to everybody! This is my first post. I've been toying with the straight razor concept for some time, and spending a lot of time on this web site has given me the bug. I've got a shave-ready razor coming from the classifieds, a Filly strop from Rup, and the rest of the paraphernalia from other sources.

Several posts about antique dealers got me to thinking about visiting the local "antiques row" and checking the local selection. Most had some straight razors, almost all with blades in sad condition, but one guy had several blades that appeared to be pretty reasonable blades. The majority were stamped with various brands, but with Illinois as the place of manufacture.

I've searched the forum, but "Illinois" mostly brings up strop information. Does anybody know anything about razors made in Illinois? I happen to have a bunch of hones for sharpening watchmaker's tools, so I thought maybe one would make a good practice blade. (His prices were in the $45-55 range, so I'm guessing some negotiation would be in order.)

Thanks!

Fred

Welcome!

With antique razors, or others from swap meet type location, you really need to be careful. If the seller will let you handle the razors, you can get a better feel for them, and it allows you to check for additional markings.

I would recommend buying Lynn's DVD and watching it before you go shopping, as he goes over what makes a good antique buy.

Let us know what you find, post pics, and may you forever find joy in S/R shaving, like the rest of us have.:gl:

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Originally Posted by fpatton

First of all, hello to everybody! This is my first post. I've been toying with the straight razor concept for some time, and spending a lot of time on this web site has given me the bug. I've got a shave-ready razor coming from the classifieds, a Filly strop from Rup, and the rest of the paraphernalia from other sources.

Several posts about antique dealers got me to thinking about visiting the local "antiques row" and checking the local selection. Most had some straight razors, almost all with blades in sad condition, but one guy had several blades that appeared to be pretty reasonable blades. The majority were stamped with various brands, but with Illinois as the place of manufacture.

I've searched the forum, but "Illinois" mostly brings up strop information. Does anybody know anything about razors made in Illinois? I happen to have a bunch of hones for sharpening watchmaker's tools, so I thought maybe one would make a good practice blade. (His prices were in the $45-55 range, so I'm guessing some negotiation would be in order.)

Thanks!

Fred

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No idea on the Illinois mark, but in regards to negotiation, I've found uncommon terminology to be the buyers friend in those types of situations. I picked up my first handful of straights yesterday, all marked $32-$40. Throw out a few phrases like "bevel needs fixed," "scales look iffy," "wedge needs replaced," "hone wear" and what not... whatever you want. Work it. Left with all three for under $30. ;)