Thread: Non-XLL?

I'm going to be marking my newbie-ness here, but what does this mean? It's on an ebay razor I'm thinking about bidding on.

Thanks all.

Originally Posted by the wanderer

I'm going to be marking my newbie-ness here, but what does this mean? It's on an ebay razor I'm thinking about bidding on.

Thanks all.

That is just a model from Joseph Allen and Sons. perhaps best pronounced as "none excel" while George Wostenholm trademarked "IXL", pronounced "I excel"

the Allen model has a very heavy grind... just shy of a wedge usually and they both are great shavers... i have several of each

You really can't go wrong with either of those makers provided the razor is in good shape. If the price is right, scoop it up - she'll shave you well for many years!

agree! ^^^ both are excelent and for a decent price in good shape would be a great buy. just ask specifics about chips and cracks!!! they don't always show in the picture!

The "NON-XLL" trademark was granted in 1838 to Unwin & Rodgers (of pistol-knife fame), who used it until until 1865. From 1865 to 1959 it was used by Joseph Allen & Sons.

Originally Posted by Yorkshireman

The "NON-XLL" trademark was granted in 1838 to Unwin & Rodgers (of pistol-knife fame), who used it until until 1865. From 1865 to 1959 it was used by Joseph Allen & Sons.

i so wish that book was online... it is out of stock everywhere i looked... I'm on two notification lists now

NON XLL also shows up on Jukes Coulson knives ca 1850 - 1880. How can two different cutlers use the same mark?

Originally Posted by syslight

i so wish that book was online... it is out of stock everywhere i looked... I'm on two notification lists now

If you're talking about Goin's Encyclopedia I just bought a new copy here for $27.95 + $6.00 shipping. Wish you hadn't mentioned it.

I've always gotten a kick out of Joseph Allen using 'NonXL' confuse the buyer and cash in on the reputation of George Wostenholme. Not saying NonXL isn't a fine razor but just that marketing gimmicks are nothing new going back over 150 years and more.

Originally Posted by Jebtaylor

NON XLL also shows up on Jukes Coulson knives ca 1850 - 1880. How can two different cutlers use the same mark?

Jukes Coulson, 1870-1900. Before 1870, it was "Iron Merchants".
And Jukes Coulson made the same things as Joseph Allen. He tried to draw attention to his products via another trademark.

My only Joseph Allen is a NON XLL. It's a mean spike pointed 8/8 at the toe and 7/8 at the heel, full hollow (possible regrinded wedge) and a fantastic shaver. Looks brutal/shaves smooth.
Amund.