Thread: Portland and Hart

I'd like to treat myself to a new American made straight, does anyone have experience of either, or both of these brands, and if so what are your opinions of them?

Ok, I should have run a search for PRC (would that have brought up the People's Republic...?), nobody has to answer this as I am awash with info. Sorry.

American made, you have some great choices,, Tim Zowda, Brian Brown, Butch Harner, Max Sprecher,, all of these choices are quality, American made. Tc

Yes, I have both brands and like both brands with a slight bias towards PRC due to my perception of their value.

I have a Portland Leviathan on order, so no firsthand experience with them yet. I am concerned that I will not like their thick tail, but we will see. Price point for the production razor was worth the risk imo.

I do have two Hart Steel razors from their custom line, no sure if that line is still made. The fit and finish is lacking on Hart razors when compared to other makers at a similar price point. The cocobolo scales are poorly finished (gain not filled in) on my 5/8 Rounded long tail shorty and the etching is inconsistent on the makers name. My square point thinned paddle tang has slightly better finish on the scales, but the company name is etched on the blade crooked. The makers name also suffers from inconsistent light to dark etching. I would not buy a third Hart Steel razor.

I have one of Brian Brown's semi-custom 7/8 razors on the way.

Theres a similar thread going on another shaving forum. You might want to poke around for it as well.

Good luck.

My brother and I ( I hope that's good English?) have quite a few Hart blades.
Their customer service is excellent and their 01 steel can be brought to deadly level of sharpness.
Plus you can design your own to a certain extent..

Originally Posted by JOB15

My brother and I ( I hope that's good English?) have quite a few Hart blades.
Their customer service is excellent and their 01 steel can be brought to deadly level of sharpness.
Plus you can design your own to a certain extent..

How well do they hold an edge in your opinion?

Originally Posted by TomP30

How well do they hold an edge in your opinion?

Very well.. Personally I've gone off 01 Tool Steel but it is good stuff ....

Hmm, I'm undecided between a new 1/4 grind and a vintage Brooksbank wedge, I just want to try a heavier blade to see how they compare with a full hollow.

I have no experience with PRC but can endorse Hart wholeheartedly (as it were ). The quality of their finishing honing is right at the top and I say that after having shaved with razors honed by the acknowledged best. The edge holding seems very good too.