F.W. Soderen...

Hi everyone, this is officially my first post. I have been reading up on straight razors all over the net, but mainly on this site, and I've decided to start collecting and shaving with straights. I'm lucky enough to live in the heart of antique country in Western NY, and today I went out and picked up several razors I feel I could refurbish. However of the 4 razors I've purchased, I found one F.W. Soderen (the tang has F.W. Soderen Eskilstuna Sverige stamped into it) razor with bone scales in very good condition that I know little to nothing about. I was wondering if any of the more senior members might be willing to offer their opinions of the brand. I only know it is/was a Swedish company...I purchased the razor relatively cheap, and am just curious to know if anyone has any more to say as to value of the razor and quality of shave alike...I'm considering sending it out to be honed after I clean it up, but wondering if anyone feels strongly either way that it is or isn't worth the effort...?

You have no idea how much it pains me, a cranky old Norwegian :rant: , to admit to this but, Swedish steel and razors are durn good stuff. :D

I'm sure someone will chime in with more detailed info on the maker but frankly, I rarely worry about the name but rather the condition of the razor. As it was made from good steel, I'm sure it'll make a great shaver for you.

Regards

Kaptain "Codbelly" Zero

Thanks for the reply,keep it coming... I can post a pic if that will help people throw in opinions... but as far as condition it could use a a good hone and the blade shows a little tarnish that I think will come out with a good polish with MAAS, but that's about it...the bone scales look practically new and the blade is tight in the pins...

Pictures are always welcome... even if they DO make me jealous.:D

Christian

Okay so i've tried several times with a quality digital camera to take some pictures of my razor(s) to post here..and I just can't seem to get a quality pic of the blade due to the lighting and reflection off the blade...I've tried everything I can think of ...is there any secret all of you have to getting those wonderfully clear and detailed pics that are all over this forum???

Ah yes, it can be somewhat baffling at first. Check out this thread on lighting by Robert. A most excellent "Crash Course" in photographic lighting!

Regards

Christian

Please, post your pics in the Svenskt stal/Swedish steel,
thread under Razor clubs. :)

Heh. I just purchased my very first straight razor, and it happens to be from the same maker that you mention, Dephunkt101! Only the text on mine seems to say F. W. SODEPER, possibly due to wear or fraud. :) The handle is black, I would guess either plastic or bakelite.

It needs honing and some polishing, but looks very promising. I'm excited to hear what the experts say about your question.