Thread: What is the difference?

so, there's probably a really good explination for this, but being that I'm new to all of this, I'm not afraid to ask. :-) Most brands of straights have many different models. Bokers for instance have the king cutter, the injun and others. There are obviously more than I can mention. So... generally, what is the differences in a brands different models? Not just boker but in general? Is it different metal? Just a different shape, different edge, etc?

Based on what I have seen in general its a size, grind,scale, decoration type of thing. Now there are some where there is actually a difference like Silver Steel over swedish or stainless over carbon or frozen steel over non so you have to look carefully.

In the heyday of the straight razor they were somewhat of a commodity thing, costing a dollar or two. Many companies manufactured them, but the majority came from Solingen or Sheffield, and some from Spain, France, Sweden, too. Many companies had them made for them under their own label (much like Sears Craftsman contracts with Emerson to make its power tools today).

As time went on there were improvements in the steel and heat treating. Also different grinds evolved and became prevalent. But most of the differences were just "marketing" campaigns to sell more razors. In general, any razor from the time period between 1900 and 1950 will be a respectable shaver if it hasn't been damaged in some way. The thickness and stiffness of your beard will have more to do with your preferred selection than the maker and steel type. In general stainless and harder steels will keep their edge longer but are sometimes harder to hone than carbon steel. Wedges and larger razors tend to be preferred by those with heavier/wiry beards. The more hollow grinds and smaller razors seem to be preferred by those with lighter beards. To me they are like golf clubs. When you first start learning to golf most any decent club works fine, but once you've gotten more expert you can tell which subtle differences in various clubs work better for you.