Thread: japanese style straights

I was referring to the kamisori as far as there being a different grind. I'm still having trouble honing my regular straights. I can get them up to par for a shave but still having trouble setting a bevel. which is why I was thinking that a feather might be a temporary fix being that I hear the kamisori is harder to hone.

Originally Posted by huckelberryhound22

I was referring to the kamisori as far as there being a different grind. I'm still having trouble honing my regular straights. I can get them up to par for a shave but still having trouble setting a bevel. which is why I was thinking that a feather might be a temporary fix being that I hear the kamisori is harder to hone.

I think that Glen has mentioned it's actually quite easy to do edge refreshes on Kamisoris. I've done mine successfully so far.
I think the main issue is the learning curve to shave with them, but you can take that at your own pace.
My opinion is that of you're interested in a Kamisori, go for it. If you get a quality piece you can always sell it.

As long as you know what you are doing it's easy. it's also easy to mess them up too.

I used a video Lynn posted to hone mine up last night. I could only used my Norton 4/8 and even on my first go with a kamisori I got the best shave since starting with straights last summer. It was amazing. Definitely go for it.

What would be a good Kamisori and how much should I be looking to spend 200 300 dollar range?

Originally Posted by huckelberryhound22

What would be a good Kamisori and how much should I be looking to spend 200 300 dollar range?

This should give you an idea...the Iwasaki are well respected razors.

JAPANESE RAZOR

I got mine for 60 on ebay. it is old and i have to clean it up a bit but you don't have to worry about scales or anything so if you don't mind cleaning it up and either sending it out or honing it yourself you can find some similar deals. just search for Kamisori. this is what mine looked like on arrival.

Originally Posted by huckelberryhound22

What would be a good Kamisori and how much should I be looking to spend 200 300 dollar range?

Just depends I guess. Like anything else you can find them all across the spectrum. I believe the iwasakis on SRD are listed at $275 for the smaller size, when they're in stock. I think a couple other sites have them for similar prices. These are new obviously. Valuations for used aren't really discussed on open forum.
I like my Iwasaki. But I don't own any others so I can't compare. Use the search box and you'll find a couple other brands people are fond of.

Originally Posted by Hart

These are on sale again:
KIYA Ichogake Japanese Kamisori Straight Razor | Fendrihan Shaving Store

for a new kamisori that is cheap... and as much as they are a respected cutlery company from japan, i wonder how their kamisori compare to other well known makers.. at that price it might be worth it though..