Thread: Magic in that Sheffield Steel?

Just curious here. I have used a "Filly", a number of "Solingen" Razors and a few "Sheffield Steel" razors and although I am new to SR shaving I can tell the difference. The Sheffield steel (especially my 5/8" Wade & Butcher) is so "softer" and comfortable on the skin compared to many of the Solingen razors I have tried. Sometimes I have to check the razor to see if it is even taking off any hair because it is so smooth that it doesn't feel that way. Now I still do get nicks and such with the Sheffield steel razors but overall they are just smoother. What is it in the Sheffield Steel that makes them feel so different? Magic? Does anyone know?

Thanks

Tony

It's Marmite.

SSSSWWWWWWEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEETTTTTT!!!!!

IME it's generally softer than the other regions' razors, and of course they tend to not be as hollow ground which makes them easier to use when you're starting out. I get much better and more comfortable shaves from my solingens and americans than I do from my sheffields, except for one 40's era concave ground W&B that also seems much harder than the rest.

I will have to be fair and try a couple American brand razors like Genco or Torrey (SP?). I will have to say that the Filly I shaved with was a great shave though too. Super sharp (almost scary sharp) but still pretty comfortable on the skin. It does seem like the Sheffield steel seems softer though and I was thinking that was the reason.

But when we say "softer" steel would that mean they have more or less carbon than most other regions steels and do we know why they produced them this way? Any specific reason besides trying to make them a smoother shaver?

They're not hardened to such a degree as the Solingen blades on the Rockwell scale.

In my limited experience, & it does pain me to say it, the most comfortable shaves are to be had with American steel!

Despite that, i use my Friodur more than any other i own.

HHHmmmmmm another kudo for American blades. I will definitely need to try one. If you don't mind me asking.... So why DO you use your Friodur more if the American blades are more comfortable. Better shaves but just not as comfortable?


Tony

Oh, it's comfortable. It gives a great shave, but to be honest, it's probably as much to do with it being a big 7/8 blade, with deep ebony scales & i love the way it looks!

The American steel just seems more forgiving. When i shave badly, for whatever reason, with one, I rarely even get a sting from the alum. The same dreadful shave from the Solingen & I'd sure as hell know it with the block.

Try one. They seem less favoured & can often be had for a steal on the bay! Get 'em while they're still cheap!

Any particular American brand you would recommend as your personal favorite?