Learning about Sheffield Quality

I used to think that if I bought a heavy 7/8 or 8/8 razor, that I would get the closest, most comfortable shave. My thoughts on this subject have changed since I started to compare the six razors I own, five of which are not Sheffield steel. For the non-believers, the hype about Sheffield steel is not hype.

My Wostenholm razor is a 5/8 (probably smaller because of the years of honing) that has no heft whatsoever. Dare I say that it is an elegant, dainty razor. However, when I shave with it, it goes across my face with ease and comfort. Mind you, all of my razors are shave-ready all the time. The Sheffield doesn't flex nor does it lose some of it's umph during the shave. Even the feel of the edge during the thumb test feels much better than of the other razors I own, which include some collectibles with reputable brand names. It simply feels like a much harder, more durable steel compared to my others. I realize there are guys here who have forgotten more than I'll ever know about razors, but to me, the Sheffield is bar none, the best steel I've shaved with so far. Maybe that'll change, maybe it won't. I'm looking forward to getting a TI soon because of the Sheffield steel.

I'm sold on this steel. Not trying to sway anyone's opinions here on SRP - I just wanted someone to confirm or dispell my opinion.

Please weigh in on your experiences with Sheffield steel.

Thanks as always.

-Rob

I agree. My Wade and Butchers are my best shavers.

I've yet to put a good edge on my new Thiers-Issard, but I'm sure it'll shave well once I do.

My one Wade & Butcher (so far) which is the only Sheffield I own (so far) has exactly the same characteristics. I had the same experience with a Wolstenholm on loan from ED which wasn't difficult to hone once I figured out the trick to it, that it was actually REALLY easy to hone. My Bresnick DD Special is also very good.

X

I'm finding the same. I have a 5/8 Chris Johnson that can almost be honed on butter and stays very sharp, great little shaver.

Gary

Wait a minute, what am I thinkin'!

NO! Those Sheffield razors all suck. I'd stay away from them if I were you. They'll stay out drinking all night with their frinds and expect you to have the hone and strop ready for them when they walk through the door. You should find yourself a nice razor that respects it's shaver.

X

Quote:

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Originally Posted by xman

Wait a minute, what am I thinkin'!

NO! Those Sheffield razors all suck. I'd stay away from them if I were you. They'll stay out drinking all night with their frinds and expect you to have the hone and strop ready for them when they walk through the door. You should find yourself a nice razor that respects it's shaver.

X

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Yes, I agree. In the event that you should come across one of these razors, do not purchase or bid on it. Instead be sure to inform one of the honemeisters (or me) and we will selflessly acquire it so that it can never do it's harm to another person again :D

Used a sheffield Worldmaster today. I have 2 of them (picked up for a grand total of 20 dollars or so.
They're stunningly easy to hone an stay sharp for a long time. I love the things.

I only have 2 shave-ready razors. One a Sheffield and the other is a Solingen. I love both of them and even though I'm warming up to the Solingen more and more, Sheffield is still my favourite. The Solingen has a finer grind and is a true singer but I get closer and more comfortable shaves (not by much) from English steel. I have 3 more Sheffields as restoration projects, but I have to admit that the W&B is giving me some trouble because of previous honing. I may set it aside and work on the Walker a bit.