My Grandfather's straight razor; Use it or Frame it? Your Opinion Please !! THANKS

Hi Y'all,

Use it?, lose it? Or frame it?

What would you EXPERTS do? I have three of gramp's razors and thought I would use this one. Will it shave well enough to justify "violating" an unused razor. Does anyone know how old it is?

THANKS A BUNCH

Use it if that is what you want. That's a nice looking razor. Bismarck is a good old name also. If you have never honed before or are new to honing send it out to be honed.

Ernie,
That's an old Bismarck, a coveted razors of yesteryear. I would think your grandfather would love to have you use it. That as well as your grandfather's other razors. A quality straight razor, especially passed on from your grandfather, is meant to be used.
Have the razors honed properly and use them. I'm sure you'll feel his blessing.
At least that's what I would do in your situation.

Thanks,
No, it's never been honed. I need to look for some good honing instructions. I'll do like you say to establish a "standard" of how it works then compare my honing skills to that first one by a pro.

Thanks Obie,

Any idea how old it is?

Yes, have them honed by a pro. Obviously I don't know how well you yourself hone. But for good measure, put them in the hands of a fabulous honemeister to set the standard. From there you can hone them yourself.
Most of all, that is a precious gift from your grandfather. Every time you shave with the razors you'll feel his presence in the shave den. That is an experience worth having.

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Originally Posted by ErnieKim

Thanks Obie,

Any idea how old it is?

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Ernkie, others may be more qualified to answer that question. I would put in the first half of the 19th century. That is a topnotch razor. You are lucky, my friend, especially since the razor was your grandfather's.

Nice razor! Personally, I would send it to a pro honer and then use it weekly.

This might be useful Bismarck "Registered" 5/8 - Straight Razor Place Wiki

I don't think that is the exact model but it might answer some of your questions.

It's a 20th century razor which is what I think Obie meant. I'd guess 1930s or so, maybe later.

Unless you are well versed in honing razors if I were in your shoes i would not experiment on a razor like that. send it out for honing.

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Originally Posted by thebigspendur

It's a 20th century razor which is what I think Obie meant. I'd guess 1930s or so, maybe later.

Unless you are well versed in honing razors if I were in your shoes i would not experiment on a razor like that. send it out for honing.

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Yes, yes, Spendur, that's what I meant, the first half of the 20th century. Thanks for pointing that out. I am thinking particularly the 1930s. I've been working on my novel all day and my brain is fried.
A fine looking razor.