Thread: Razor condition question

Hello Straight razor world,

I have been interested in straight razor shaving for a while now, but am still a newbie. I recently became the guardian of a razor that belonged to my Great Great Grandfather. It's a George Wostenholm IXL frame. The date on the box says 1870, and I believe that is an accurate age of the blade.

I would LOVE to use this razor, but I'm not sure if it's in a usable condition. It will need a good professional honing, to be sure. But the point end of the blade curves up in a way that I have not seen with other razors. I'm not sure if that's the way it is meant to be, or if it's been worn down over the years due to stropping.

I'll include a photo to show you what I'm talking about. What do you think?

I believe the toe is designed like that, I'm not an expert but I say get it honed up and give it a go. More people will probably be able to give you more on the razor itself

I would say that the toe shape is a result of honing, but the overall condition seems to be amenable to a good restoration.

Congratulations! You have inherited a very nice old Sheffield razor, and it looks to be in good and original condition. The toe has a "smile" that was forged, not a result of over-honing, IMO. The bevel looks good and the nice "swayback" spine does not show excessive wear, to me and the side of the horn scales that is visible in your photo also looks good. Expertly honed, it should prove a nice shaver. I really like the groove in the blade with a stamped Wostenholm logo inside. The groove may have been made to reduce blade weight, but it did protect the stamping too. Any cracks in the scales? I recommend to just rub them inside and out with some neatsfoot oil to protect them and restore their luster. What a fine family heirloom!