Thread: A Problematic Razor

I don't seem to be able to post any images, either from my computer or from a URL where I have them online. So, my apologies for re-directing you elsewhere, but I think this might be of interest to those who enjoy ordering custom razors. Don't feel obliged to reply over there if inspired, you can do so right here.

A Problematic Razor

I have sent the maker a couple of PMs here, but since he stopped posting here in 2017, I don't expect a response. Nor do I expect a refund or a replacement. I should have known better than to buy from a new maker, and having done it, I should have examined the razor far more closely than I did at the time. But there we are, constantly learning when we think we already know it all. This is posted simply for educational purposes.

Sorry to hear of the resurgence of the leukemia, hopefully your treatment goes as well as my coworker. Got cancer for the second time after 7 years and in remission again.

That is quite the goofy ground razor and not surprising that it was early on. I have seen a few makers on instagram promoting and selling their first razors, before they have even made them. This process does grind my gears as testing and prototyping any product to master techniques is an unavoidable step. There's a reason the path to a master bladesmith certification is so involved...

That being said, people complain about Livi's razors and he has been making them for god knows how long.

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Good to see you posting razor stuff!
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I agree with your conclusions about the razors edge. It is ground to thin at the point of the dog leg. The razor will never have an even bevel.
My next step would be to give it one more go on the hones. If it does not shave properly at that point then it should be in a display case .... permanantly.

The photo of the spine face on looks like it is uneven. Like one side is higher than the other. That will throw your bevel off some.

Sorry to hear of your problems with the crappy custom razor, one should always expect a higher level of finish and quality from a custom razor, if that were mine as soon as it dropped through my door it would have been back in the post, I would demand a full refund.

Sorry to hear of your problems with the Buddel razor. Have you tried to contact Gabor via his website fine-razors.de? At least the webside is still alive but I haven't heard anything from him in the german forums for some time.
I agree with your conclusion that the hollow grinding was uneven over the lenght of the razor. The reason for that could be the grinding itself maybe combined with problems or inhomogeneities in the steel.
I don't think that you can fix this really satisfying with honing. The razor needs to be regrinded with focus in the change in shape/ thickness of the blade during grinding.
Regards Peter

That really stinks. It is an interesting blade shape all in all save for the geometric problems. It may be that you could have it re-ground but there's a point where you are throwing good money after bad. No one wants to fall victim to the sunk costs fallacy. Tough break but a great "save yourself," PSA. Thanks.
Also, glad to hear you have pulled through your health issues. It's a long road back. Glad you made it.

All the best of luck with your health.
Bummer about the razor.

Sorry I guess I read relapsed as remissed. My best wishes to you and your journey. I know it's hard but I hope you keep the faith in recovery. Hope is an important aspect of healing.

Hello everyone,

i read the 2 pm today. I don't know why Chris didn't just contact me through my homepage / email. That would have led to answers more quickly.
I recommended that he first sharpen the knife by taping the back himself. If this does not lead to the desired results, he can also send me the knife and I will fix it.

Best wishes
Gabor