Thread: My First Straight Razor

Originally Posted by Runner

Got it. Will hone. Now next question. How honing will be affecting the life span of the blade, especially one from the 70-s? Does it have enough steel left to continue to be honed maybe 3 times a year? I am sure this was discussed somewhere before, but with the "internets" I have no attention span left.

Oh, btw, some of the pictures have dots and maybe what looks like blemishes, but in reality this was just oil. The blade looked perfect "in person", after I wiped it off.

Sorry, thought I saw a blemish on the edge. This would have indicated (to me at least) that that spot on the edge, however minute, had not been subjected to a hone, and that most likely the rest of the edge would have been in a similar condition. If I see rust on the very edge of a blade, I'm pretty confident it's probably in need of honing.

Normal, healthy honing shouldn't adversely affect your razor in your lifetime. Lot's of folks are shaving with well maintained razors made before the US Civil War.

This is nice piece of information, thank you. It was recommended to me to take my razor to Henry Westpfal Co in Manhattan. By looking at their site, I see them doing everything -including cutlery. This makes me nervous, as the process of sharpening, as far I know, is very different. Some people swear by them. I normally prefer small local shop with the guy who will remember my name.

Originally Posted by Runner

This is nice piece of information, thank you. It was recommended to me to take my razor to Henry Westpfal Co in Manhattan. By looking at their site, I see them doing everything -including cutlery. This makes me nervous, as the process of sharpening, as far I know, is very different. Some people swear by them. I normally prefer small local shop with the guy who will remember my name.

Just keep in mind that knife honing and razor honing are two totally different animals. I've been sharpening knives for forty years, but have just started learning to hone razors. Apples and oranges. There are probably lots of honemeisters in your neck of the woods. Check the classies for a good honemeister.

Welcome to the forum! There is plenty of great info and awesome knowledge here! Take your time and research the forum... Enjoy your new razor and listen to the guys here! I learn something new every day!