Thread: Torn between the 2

Looking for opinions (personal experience prefferd) rather than random shots please.

I've been toying around with the purchase of two razors.

1st BOKER ELITE in either form,though relatively new to the market, is a throwback to the WB Elite. Many scale variations, but the photo is for representation.



2nd is the DOVO 2 BISMARCK

Though it can be had in different trim levels the most basic is trimmed in gold appointments adding to it's curb appeal. The design is suppose to be a continuing lineage if the BISMARCK line, but the 2 took on a change reminiscent of the WB ELITE (that's how it appears anyway).



I know the DOVO brand has a large following, and probibaly a better investment value, but I've had a bad taste with2 DOVO models. I don't want this to dissuade me, as these may be isolated issues. And that I have never owned a BOKER, which raises my want for one.

So personal experience with the two is what I'm looking for. Preferably someone that owns or has owned both razors. What are the pros & con's, construction quality of the blade, shave feel.
There is only a few $ separating the two choices, so I want the "best bang for my buck".

So, here we go..... POST.

Two really beautiful razors. Hopefully someone can chime in on the shaves. I think I lean towards the Bismarck for looks but I haven't shaved with either one.

The Bismarck is pretty but I'm always worried about the goldwash wearing away. I don't have any razors with gold so I don't know if that's a valid concern or not. I have the Dovo LeCarre which is the same blade and shape I think. I don't have a Boker Elite but I have a King Cutter and like it a lot. I've been eying that Elite lately. I think it's a classic looker. Understated yet very elegant.

Originally Posted by daverojo77

Two really beautiful razors. Hopefully someone can chime in on the shaves. I think I lean towards the Bismarck for looks but I haven't shaved with either one.

Personal taste plays a large factor in a decision. Most times it's a impulse, or it "must be better because it costs more/ looks better" thing.

I've seen posts saying DOVO quality has declined vs. vintage versions. This goes without saying, this is a general term across all brands. "They don't make them like they use to". ☺

Everyone posts positive responses and experiences, and I don't want this to Be a " BASH POST" & "MUD SLINGING". I just want a honest 2 cents on their personal experiences.

I to prefer the DOVO, but have heard of quality and edge issues (this maybe due to honing).
The gold looks nice, but will eventually come off. It makes it difficult to maintain or restore. But DOVO have a larger fan base.

BOKER is a well respected brand. Haven't heard many reports about the ELITE. It's simpler and a little drab in my opinion, but sometimes "less is more".

I'm more into the " head 2 head" match up of the two.

Originally Posted by logan5tx

The Bismarck is pretty but I'm always worried about the goldwash wearing away. I don't have any razors with gold so I don't know if that's a valid concern or not. I have the Dovo LeCarre which is the same blade and shape I think. I don't have a Boker Elite but I have a King Cutter and like it a lot. I've been eying that Elite lately. I think it's a classic looker. Understated yet very elegant.

I agree, oh the decisions we must make, traveling down life's path...

Just to muddy the waters a bit, if you are set on the shoulderless with thumb notch style blade with a bit of bling Revisor might be worth a look. Here is but one example 6/8" : 6-0004 . You are not limited to those two brands to get that style.

Bob

I own the Bismarck, (with the exception that mine's a square tip). It's an all around decent razor, the only problem with mine right now is the goldwash is disappearing (which is probably because of me), so I can't fault the razor for it. I do not own that particulate Boker, but I do have some issues with the 2 Boker's I do own, them being loose pins, and trouble keeping an edge on the blades. There's going to be pros & cons of any razor you buy, so if I was you I would go for the one that you think looks better. You already know what they look like, but you won't know how they work with you until you've bought one. Best of luck with your choice!

Originally Posted by BobH

Just to muddy the waters a bit, if you are set on the shoulderless with thumb notch style blade with a bit of bling Revisor might be worth a look. Here is but one example 6/8" : 6-0004 . You are not limited to those two brands to get that style.

Bob

I will look into it. Any known state side distributor's?

I have the Bismark. One of the factors you need to consider is where you get it from, that whole shave ready thing. Brad at Maggard has a very good reputation for sharpening. The Bismark is a beauty. Yes the gold wash comes off with stropping. I do prefer razors that have a little less bling. Mo writing no etching and no gold wash. The Bismark does shave very well. I would expect that from any quality maker. The blade shape on those two are remarkably close. You may have to decide based on price and availability.

I have shaved with both razors. My preference is for the Elite by a wide margin.