Thread: greetings from Rochester

Hello fellow forum browsers and straight enthusiasts. My name is Levi, and I'm new to the world of straight razors. I decided to switch to straights for shaving after realizing how much money I was wasting on carts that clogged every five minutes - I've been shaving since I was 12....holy..that's a lot of used carts. I was considering just using a safety razor, until I found (in a post on this site I believe), a mention of Robeson Cutlery Co. out of Rochester, NY. I'm actually quite proud of my little town, despite it's downturn over the past 20 or so years, and I was tickled when I found that we used to make some decent straights back @ the turn of the century (1900's, not 2000's, heh).
I did the impulsive thing and purchased a Robeson 1573 from a reputable dealer on eBay, who said, when asked, that the razor was shave tested. It was oiled when I received it, so I cleaned it, stropped it, and prepared to shave the first few inches of my sideburns, as recommended in the beginner's forum. The razor was definitely sharp, but not sharp enough - I have knives sharper, so the seller either doesn't shave w/ straights or outright lied to me, and probably won't get my business again. Luckily for Lynn Abrams though (and luckily for me I think), I'll be sending it to him to hone properly for me - I don't want to wreck an antique w/ my first honing attempt. Does anyone know what the turnaround time for his honing service is, off hand?
Anyway, as I've gone on here you're probably begging me to shut up, so I will for now. I'm glad there's such a well informed community here that supports it's members. Looking forward to talking with you all :-)

Congratulations. I had a 6 day turnaround when. I sent a razor to Lynn. I was VERY happy with the results. Glad to have you as a member.

Welcome to SRP. There are several members in your area including me. Sending your razor to Lynn is a good choice.

Rochester NY had several cutlery companies. Terrier Cutlery was a branch of Robeson. I also have a razor from F.H. Loeffer. Down the road from us Geneva Cutlery who changed their name to Genco from Geneva NY made some great razors. Genco was purchased by Case Cutlery. In the other direction we have Little Valley another great cutlery center in NY.

In the past my wife, son and I have held straight razor meets. We are over due for one, maybe well hold one in the fall. Meanwhile, if you have any questions or would like some one on one help you can drop me a PM. It may be possible to have a mini meet w/ some of the local members. We can get you up and running in the right direction quickly.

Greetings Levi,

Big Kudos for getting a professional edge - that's gonna save you some heartburn.

I'm jealous that you're close to Joed and that he holds meet-ups. It would be hard to encourage attendance enough. It greatly shortens your learning curve. I hope you get to attend. 'Wish I could.