Thread: Information on E.J. Robinson Straight Razor

First of all I would like to say that I am happy to be a part of this forum. From what I have seen through my limited time here I am impressed with the helpfulness of the replys and amount of information there is on this site. Thank you all for your help in advance.

Now to the questions: I just purchased a "E.J. Robinson Manufacturing Co." straight razor and was looking for some more information on both the company and the razor I purchased. The link to the ebay auction is below.

Vintage 9/16" SP E.J. Robinson Mfg. Co. Kern Blue Steel Razor Shave Ready German

Before I start putting time and effort into shaving with this razor I want to know a little more about the quality and history (knowing the history of the razor you're using is half the fun!)

Thanks again!

Looks good to me, but it might not be actually be shave ready.

Originally Posted by outback

Looks good to me, but it might not be actually be shave ready.

All I can take away too. I'd say that was a German made razor imported EJ Robison. Made in Germany is usually always good.

Bob

Thanks outback and BobH, I saw the German and it looked like it was in good shape so I went for it. I'll let you all know how it shaves when I get it.

I wouldn't be afraid to put it to my face. I say fire it up and take it for a test shave. If it isn't truly shave ready go to one of the professional honers that frequent here.

Welcome to SRP Appledump, that a very nice looking razor in great condition. Let me first point out that this razor was made in Germany for E. J Robison Mfg Co, and not E. J. Robinson... That is Edward Robison founded this Barbers supplies co around 1910.

The entrepreneur also developed salves, tonics, and a device called the "Ruth Razor."* A 1920 newspaper article in the Topeka Journal mentions that Robison "has a number of useful inventions to his credit," including a "manless aircraft" equipped with a remote control bomb-dropping device.* Robison's appetite for innovation and change apparently knew few bounds, although his focus remained the barber supply house. Edward passed away in 1931 and the company folded.

Thank you so much Martin! I knew someone here would be able to help me out. I am very excited to use the E.J Robison razor even more now that I know the history.

Regards,

J

I have a "Koken" straight that also was made in Germany. Koken was probably the biggest Barber supply Co & I don't think they made much if anything of what they sold. I do know my Koken straight is one of my favorite to shave with. It has a very sharp yet smooth feel when shaving.
I find that German made razors are less of a crap shoot as far as is the blade straight & how much work it takes to get it shaving good. That said, my favorite straight to shave with is a mid 1800's Wade & Butcher. But I have several Sheffield razors that are warped & very hard to hone. You just don't find that with the German blades so much.

Slawman