Thread: A new buyers guide - Things to be aware of and to look out for.

Hello everyone.

I've been doing a lot of reading and lurking for the past few weeks.

While I am not yet ready to jump into straight razor shaving, I wanted to ask a few questions concerning used straights commonly found in antique stores and estate sales.

Last weekend, for example, I encountered several old straight razors that appeared to have very little visible damage and wear.

Aside from the obvious examples of rusting, pitting, broken edges and damaged scales, what sort of guidelines do you use when evaluating the general robustness and quality of a razor? What types of tell-tell signs set off warning sounds in your eyes (and perhaps, why should these issues raise concern?)

I understand that "value" is a subjective term and so much of the judgment variables depend on the eye of the beholder. What I am looking for is a set of general guidelines which will allow me to judge if the razor is worthy of learning on (for honing pratice) and perhaps if a razor warrants additional consideration as a possible addition into a daily shaving collection.

I don't seek to become an expert, but a few set of guidlines will allow me to potentially spot a wholesome purchase, or perhaps if I am really lucky, the ability to spot a truly unique opportunity.

(Also, if you could offer a few pointers such as how to identify and spot characteristics that would identify a rare find, I would appreciate that as well. Oftentimes at estate auctions, very few people in attendance know much of anything concerning straight razors.)

I thank you for your assistance.

-joedy

For starters, skip anything made in Pakistan. They're crap. Some sellers on eBay are trying to pawn of a brand called Solingen which are made in Pakistan.

Good razors typically come from Germany, Sweden, England and France. That being said there are a lot of razors floating around with American information on them that are wonderful shavers too.

I personally look at the blade - rust, pitting, cracked, broken, etc. I pay close attention to the shape of the blade and hone wear on the spine.

On scales look for cracks. Some scale materials such as celluloid can become unstable. Some will have to clue you in on this one. I also check the play of the blade. You don't want the blade flopping around because the scales are loose, it's an easy fix but something to watch for.

Value is subjective. I'm not a brand loyalist, but there are great shavers out there. Dubl Duck are nice, as are Henckels, Wade & Butcher, Thiers-Issard, Filarmonica and many many more.

Don't forget Spain . Filarminicas are great shavers too.

I listed Filarmonica Just couldn't remember where they came from

Goes with the age, scary didn't even see it down below.

well as a relatively new member i wish I had done what you have done and asked first, i jumped straight in....bought a cheap razor and found i got a shave with it all be it a poor one, my first experience with this type of shaving was from proper barbers, one in canada and one in Dublin Ireland, who i have visited on the occasions I have been there. Its a great experience the first time and there after...anyways I digress..

I wish i had spent more time gathering info instead of trying to be fancy and get a great razor on e-Bay..
I have spent too much money on rubbish and razors beyond repair only to hear myself say...why did i do that...i have bought some awesome razors on e-Bay too, my last being an 8/8 from a good seller in germany that was unused....but i had to fight hard for that one...lol

My first razor, real one I bought from Billysblades.com and i love it, it wasnt exspensive and i knew what I was buying from his site, he has some beautiful pieces to suit all pockets and wallets.
He is not alone when it comes to selling razors as you will see on here, there are a good few members that put some pretty terrific pieces up for sale and you can rest assured that you will get a nice razor from them if you buy on here. I know that the money I have spent on buying poorly would have brought me some awesome blades had I had the patience.

So see whats being sold and the budget you give yourself and ask any member anything you want to know, they will all help you as much as they can Im sure...and by the way once the bug gets you ...it hits hard...lol

Have fun and good luck with whatever you do,

regards,simon