Thread: Genco Heavy

I just joined your forum a few minutes ago. I thought someone could help me. I purchased two straight razors after deciding to take my Dad's advice and get a "real man's" shave (he said this to me 25 years ago).

The first is a Genco "Heavy" razor, the second an F. W. Engels Warren Velvet Edge straight razor. The Genco handle is barely serviceable (it looks like the owner got it too close to a heat source), the blade is almost perfect with very little if any use. My question is how I could procure a replacement handle for it as I do not know how long the original will hold up. I have read on your forum that the Genco is a fine razor.

The Engels is in fine shape but has a patina of rust which should clean up fine. Any ideas on the handle for the Genco?

Were you intending to replace the scales yourself? If so, post in The Workshop section. If you wanted someone to do it for you, then look in the Classifieds for the Member Services sections and you should find a few restorers who have listed their services there.

there are LOTS of guys who do scale restores here, and all the ones who post in the gallery do some top-notch work.

Check em out here: The Gallery - Straight Razor Place Forums

Thanks for the info. I did check the Workshop as you suggested. I may try to make my own. I have made a few knives and turned the scales myself. I have a set of stabilized heavily figured walnut slabs I could use.

Does anyone know about the Engels razor? Are they good steel? Where are they made?

Originally Posted by 300WSM

Thanks for the info. I did check the Workshop as you suggested. I may try to make my own. I have made a few knives and turned the scales myself. I have a set of stabilized heavily figured walnut slabs I could use.

Does anyone know about the Engels razor? Are they good steel? Where are they made?

Engels are a good brand, lots of guys here think they make good shavers. Never had one myself, I don't think. Anyhow, they have a solid reputation.

As Joke said, Engels are good quality blades. They are German (to answer about where they're from). I've not heard of the model you have, I've never heard of an Engels that was not a great shaver.

Genco's are also great blades (American), and if I'm not mistaken JoeD and CarrieM recently got a Genco Heavy.

Thanks Holli! Yes, there is a Genco Heavy in the collection. Pics are located here: http://straightrazorpalace.com/show-...-day-more.html

I haven't shaved with it yet but I will get to it soon. I have shaved with a few of the others including the Seneca Chief we purchased from Holli4pirating (JrJoeD really likes that one) and they all shave great.

I also have several Engles and they are quality shavers. Of course the quality of shave depends on how well they are honed.

Since you are new to straight razors I would suggest sending them to a honemister to get the proper edge.

Enjoy your new razors.

Thanks for all the help, people. You have made me feel very much at home here at this forum. I need to get the Genco Heavy shipshape so that I can use it. I need to hone it (as in get that done) so I will be looking to send it off to a reputable tradesman. I was a meatcutter by trade and have an extensive set of Arkansas stones (and other blade sharpening devices) in various grades but from what I read one needs specialized equipment specific to honing a razor. I will eventually learn but for now I will let the pros handle it. Thanks again for all your help.