Thread: Main things to watch out for when buying vintage low cost razors

I look for auctions with multiple close-up pictures and then check the scales around the pivot pins to look for cracking.

Looking at the blades I make sure there are no chips in the bevel itself and minimum pitting in the rest of the blade.

If I can see actual rust I pass on that auction. Sometimes I'll actually prefer a cracked scale if the blade is in good condition if I'm planning on remaking the scales.

That will usually result in a lower price. There are a few names that I like in my preferred price range. I've had good luck and generally will stick with those.

I like W.H. Morley and Sons, Union Cutlery "Spike" and Torrey to name a few. I prefer 5/8's but have 4/8's and 6/8's.

Most of mine are in the lower price ranges and frequently I'll go after "Buy Me Now" prices particularly ones that also have "Make Me an Offer" options.

With auctions I'll bid where there are no bids when I first check them out and then I'll make and stick with a low bid. If I lose that auction...no big deal.

Some auctions are listed more or less incorrectly so less regular bidders are aware of the auction due to the way it's listed.