Originally Posted by
Jimbo
This is an interesting thread.
I have the completely opposite experience. Perfect shaves off Sheffield steel, and have never yet tried a Solingen that I did not find scratchy or sub-par in some way (with the possible exception of the Friodur - but even that does not give the smooth feel of a well-honed Sheffield). In fact, I flatter myself that, in a blind shave test, I can pick Sheffield steel over non-sheffield steel 98.7% of the time. I have either given away or sold all my solingen razors with the exception of 4, which I keep for other reasons.
I believe these things are all personal. But the above have been my findings. Most of it probably comes down to what you are used to and what is mostly available in your area, your skin type, your experience with honing, your experience with shaving, blah blah blah. Bottom line, we are all different. Bottom, bottom line - the more people who like non-sheffield steel, the more Sheffield steel left for me! :D
James.