Thread: Hallo from Cape Town, South Africa

Hi!
I am somewhat crazy about knives and the art of sharpening.
Specifically sharpening to the point where you can shave hair.
I discovered a straight blade razor in my local knife shop and decided to give it a try.
Unfortunately it is not of the best quality, stainless steel and not carbon, but I managed to get it quite sharp with my strop.
Will give shaving a try tonight.

Have been looking on the net for straight razors available in South Africa, but can only find Edwin Jagger at around $170 which is a bit high.

I would really like to know if there are any members from South Africa on this forum and if so, who/where do they buy their razors from?

Looking forward to your feedback.

What brand of razor is it? Placing it to your face may be a great way to discourage you from this rewarding hobby.

What hones do you have? You mentioned a strop. Is it treated with paste?

If I remember correctly there are one or two members here from S. Africa. I would guess that most new straights are either junk or ordered just like we have to do in the US. New production straight razors start at around $100 and go up, but vintage can be readily found and while searching in the classifieds here you may be able to find someone willing to ship to you. Many of the razors sold here come shave ready.

Razor fang is in Johannesberg i believe. Not exactly next door but at least you're not alone down there

Welcome!

Thanks for all the replies.
The razor I have is from China and has a stainless steel blade.
No matter how much I strop it, I cant seem to get it sharp enough.
Cuts fine hair quite well, but is useless on my beard.
I have a rubbing compound I use on my strop.
Works great on my good knives, I can get them even sharper than the razor I have...
Seriously considering ordering a razor from your site.
Keep you posted.
ps, do I have to host my photographs on a private site as I see I cannot simply attach?
Thanks and regards