Thread: My First Razor

hey there i just bought my first razor off of ebay and i was wondering if it was a good razor. Its made by Challenge Cutlery and has the words "WIDE AWAKE" on the blade with an owl inbetween them. It seems to be in very good condition to me but im just a noob the scales look like they could have been made yesterday and there is no pitting or cracking along the blade. However there are black markes im not sure what these are and i would realy like to get rid of them if any of you know what i can use to clean them off that would be awesome also i was wondering about strops should i buy i new one of will a vintage one off of ebay suffice and what should i be looking for? and if anyone knows of someone in canada (perferably ontario) that does a good honing job please let me know. i havint shaved with a stright befor so andy tips are welcome thank you! oh! and pictures!

Honing and Restoration Services (CANADA) - Straight Razor Place Classifieds

Try having it honed, and shave with it. If it shaves well, then it's a good razor! Sorry I can't tell you more.

thats alright thats all i really needed thank you!

I don't know about all their models, but IIRC, Challenge is a well regarded (though underrated/largely unknown) American company. If it takes an edge, it should be a workhorse shaver.

In regards to the question relating to getting an antique strop, my input would be that you probably will be better off getting a fresh one until you know more about the older ones as alot of them are not going to be in the proper condition anymore.

If you are new to using a straight you also will need to become used to the whole traditional wet shaving preparation process as well.
I know that there is a ton of info on this forum to help in informing you about this as well.

Good luck

Sean