Thread: Razor condensing quandry

This is an odd question, but I'm hoping some here might be able to advise.

After taking up straight shaving, I started building up a collection. I figured I'd head up to a 14 razor rotation, 7 6/8" or less, 7 7/8" or higher. Part of the point of this was so I could try a number of different razors and razor types.

Well, now that I've had a static rotation for some time, I think want to condense. Beyond that, I think I'd like to have a matching 7 day set. Now, I do like the fact that every razor I have is either a restore or new old stock, so I'm not looking to purchase a new one. I'm considering trading down. There's two razors that I really like both in terms of the shave they give and the comfort of use: the 7/8" Doble Temple Filis that Classic Shaving was selling, and the 7/8" Henckels Friodurs that vintage blades and shaving shop were selling. I know, I know... cheap tastes.

My thought now is if I'm looking to trade 12 razors for five (I have two of each of the aforementioned razors), which would be an easier set to pursue? I'm about 50-50 on which I like better. Sometimes I lean towards the Friodurs, but then I'd be looking for 5 scalloped back spanish point blades. The Doble Temples have the advantage of being standard, plus they would allow for engraving on the spine.

Scales are of less importance. Part of the process would involve getting them rescaled and getting a box.

And, no, I wouldn't be looking at doing the collecting in one trade, more likely five separate trades. I also do have some sought after razors to trade out. I realize that I'll have to bundle a bit, but the idea is reducing, so I'm fine with that.

You realize that you when you have finished this task, you are just going to start collecting seven day sets, right?

I think both your choices are in some form of having been discontinued, but if you want to get there you will.

I have only bought two new razors. They happen to be the Filly and Friodur you mentioned. Maybe we're related!

Originally Posted by loueedacat

I think both your choices are in some form of having been discontinued, but if you want to get there you will.

Both were sitting in the back of a warehouse for some time before being finished and sold. But if it was not a challenge, it would not be fun.

Oh come now. You think it's going to stop with getting all those razors? You still need a plethora of brushes, hones, soaps/creams, mirrors, strops, aftershaves, mugs, shelves and do dads to put store all this equipment, etc., etc., etc.... Then, if you are married, you got some splaining to do to the spouse!!

I've recently discovered the delights of the 7/8" straight. It's the problem with reading what you guys say on this forum. I purchased mine from the forum's classifieds. It's a Heribert Wacker blue wonder, with English steel fully hollow ground in Germany. Very European and not for you colonial types, it might spoil you. It's very very good. Makes me wonder if Mr Wacker's Dorko is any good. This RAD is a terrible illness. Just when I think I have it under control..................

So I have the same dilemma. What to do with the smaller width blades. Let them catch dust? I took forever collecting them and they are as good as any 6/8" razors can be.

One thing I will not do however is go for a seven day set. I can see the attraction but, I know my own temperament and once I discover which of the seven shaves the best, the rest will sit and catch dust. The other thing is that unlike quality individual razors, seven day sets are not so easy to trade.

Just my thoughts. But enjoy the trading its good fun and the customers and members on this forum are all a pleasure to deal with.

Originally Posted by English

... It's a Heribert Wacker blue wonder, with English steel fully hollow ground in Germany. Very European and not for you colonial types, it might spoil you. It's very very good...

Pfft! Wrap your hands around some quality cold Amurican steel and you will never go back!


Check out TZ or numerous other makers if you want REAL quality. Yeah.







You know I'm just kidding you...