Quote Originally Posted by TULIP View Post
OK, I'm a newb at this stuff, and occasionally I'll read a post regarding Japanese razors. There seems to be an almost mystical quality about Japanese razors and stones (and it's the same with certain Japanese fountain pens). After checking out some of the posts and their links, they've piqued my interest. So, with all due respect, what's so special about Japanese razors other than the fact that they're designed a bit differently and, at least, the Iwasaki seems to be hand-made? I'm finding myself wanting one to see what all the fuss is about.
I'm not an expert and haven't tried a Japanese razor, but I can safely say all Japanese straight razors (excluding feather) were handmade.

IMO, its all about the different look, style and perhaps the fact that those type of razors go back a lot further than the !800's western straights.

My 0.02