Thread: Newby from Pennsylvania

Hi,

I already posted on the razor forum asking info about some straight razors I have had in my possession for 20+ years, which I inherited from my grandparents. You can see the post here.

http://straightrazorpalace.com/razor...ml#post1129049

I received several informative replies, and I greatly appreciate the info. I think the straight razor bug has bit me so I am going to start reviewing all the useful info on this site. But to begin I guess I would like to ask some advice and additional information.

I already have most of the sharpening items required to maintain a straight razor because I am a woodworker who continues to gravitate towards antique hand tools. My most recent acquisition involves a half set of (18) hollow and round planes for making moldings. Consequently, I am not intimidated by the sharpening process, but I do have a few questions about how to proceed with this new obsession.

First, the Greaves razor I am pretty sure has replacement scales. But I don't intend to replace them because I think even the scales are antique at this point. Am I nuts to make this a user? Because the stamping clearly has no evidence of "& Sons" is it likely the blade is pre-19th century? Because of the corrosion I would send them to a professional to have the blade polished and honed. Any advice, opinions about what to do with this razor? How far or not should a restoration/cleaning go?

Second, the Barlow has pretty scales and a solid, but damaged, blade. What can I expect this to cost to be restored?

Third, I figure the German razor is in good enough shape to try and hone and strop myself. All I can hurt is myself, right?

I look forward to your comments. This is a great website with lots of info - what a great resource!

Duane

Where in PA are you from?

Welcome to SRP Duane,

If you are "nuts to make this a user" then you can add my name to the list of nuts. I have a very similar Greaves which, incidentally, I picked up at an auction in Picture Rocks, PA about five years ago. My razor was made somewhere between 1780 and 1816 which puts it right at 200-years-old. I honed it and have used it many times. It certainly doesn't detract from the razor's value and it gives me great satisfaction to hold an object in my hands that is two centuries old and still performing the task for which it was designed. I like to let my mind wander back over the years and imagine the circumstances experienced by its original owner and I hope it would make him happy to know that his razor is still mowing down stubble.

Regards - Walt

Very cool! Thanks.

Originally Posted by Walt

Welcome to SRP Duane,

If you are "nuts to make this a user" then you can add my name to the list of nuts. I have a very similar Greaves which, incidentally, I picked up at an auction in Picture Rocks, PA about five years ago. My razor was made somewhere between 1780 and 1816 which puts it right at 200-years-old. I honed it and have used it many times. It certainly doesn't detract from the razor's value and it gives me great satisfaction to hold an object in my hands that is two centuries old and still performing the task for which it was designed. I like to let my mind wander back over the years and imagine the circumstances experienced by its original owner and I hope it would make him happy to know that his razor is still mowing down stubble.

Regards - Walt

state college area

Originally Posted by meleii

Where in PA are you from?

Welcome Duane to the forum and to straight razor shaving.
Dont ever be afraid to use these old razors. Its the old ones especially, that cut so wonderfully. I wouldnt care if George Washington himself used a particular razor that I posessed. Cause guess what? I would be using it for sure. Thats the fun of this passion of ours. Not only knowing the history but USING THE HISTORY as well.
I'm a Pennsylvanian as well, a Philly boy. Its good to have you join the fold.
Again welcome
Darl (Tarkus)

Welcome to SRP.

RUssell

Tarkus....I'm in NJ in hammonton!! Well to answer your question....I wouldn't hone it because I don't know what I'm doing! I have read a lot about it and it is an art in itself. I would contact Lynn at SRD. He is a great guy and very good at honing. But to agree with everyone else.....use it! I hope my great grand kids use mine. Welcome and have fun!