Thread: Xmas gift from my brother

So my brother got me in our family secret Santa "homemade" grab bag this year, but instead of the usual tin of cookies or chocolate-drizzled popcorn that everyone usually exchanges, he made me this:





He picked up an old Wostenholm & Son "pipe" razor and made new scales for it out of maple burl. The pics don't do it justice: the scales are absolutely stunning in person. The blade needs work, but that's just an excuse for me to finally pick up the Norton 4k/8k I've been wanting.

This guy is amazing...he knew next to nothing about straight razors a month ago, but he knew I was into them and did a ton of research and hard work to give me one of the most special gifts I have ever received.

Anyway, just wanted to share. Happy holidays, all!

Dave that is really cool that your brother took the time to get you a really nice razor. Congrats and enjoy!

Karen

The instant family heirloom

What a great gift !

It's a beauty. Enjoy it !

That is a very nice job on the scales and should hold a special place in your heart . I love pipe razors and that one looks great . If you haven't honed blades yet you may want to send it our for a pro hone job and buy a Double Arrow off EBay to practice honing with. If you don't plan on more restores or EBay specials you can save you money and just pick up a barber's hone or small coticule just to maintain your edge every 2-3 months.

Your brother is better than mine ever was! Hone that thing up and use it, let us know how it does!

Any openings in your family for another member??!! What a nice gift.

Bloody hell, he must love you! That's a beauty, mate.

Thanks so much for the kind words, everyone. If it ends up shaving half as good as it looks, I'll be thrilled.

As far as honing blades, I've been touching up my(originally pro-honed) everyday shaver for 8-9 months on a barber hone and a Chinese 12k, but I've never had to go as far as setting the bevel on a blade myself. I'm looking forward to the challenge, though, and I'll definitely post my impressions when I get it up and running.

Originally Posted by DaveF

Thanks so much for the kind words, everyone. If it ends up shaving half as good as it looks, I'll be thrilled.

As far as honing blades, I've been touching up my(originally pro-honed) everyday shaver for 8-9 months on a barber hone and a Chinese 12k, but I've never had to go as far as setting the bevel on a blade myself. I'm looking forward to the challenge, though, and I'll definitely post my impressions when I get it up and running.

I gave a very similar Wostenholm razor to a friend of mine too. I honed it up on the Norton 4K/8K & a Chinese 12K. The test shave was phenomenal. You won't be disappointed with this piece from Sheffield.

Your brother did a really nice job for your gift -- the blade, scales, occasion -- perfect.

Man, that's great. My brother wouldn't do that for me.