Thread: Japanese straight razors

Originally Posted by Maximilian

Yes, like Gugi said an Iwasaki as it's his but I have another one on my way and so far I have no clue who the maker is so hopefully Old _School will be able to help some with the stamp readings. Jim also helped with some of the stamp translations.

Max, I'm pretty sure the name is Norio...

Originally Posted by Maximilian

My thoughts exactly. I only recently started shaving with a Japanese razor and I had no issues at all. Maybe a few awkward moments and movement hesitations but had a wonderful and extremely fun shave. If anything I find it easier as the blade's cutting edge is smaller, one uses even lighter and shorter more precise strokes. And I gotta tell you, those blades are wicked sharp. I'm definitely hooked. And did I say it's lots of fun to shave with one too

Welcome to the club Max! Even better when you shave your head with it

I can see it now you posting a review and lo and behold like overpriced Filarmonica or Dubl Duck, kamisori's will be highly sought after and Jim's stock of Iwasaki's will be gone faster than you can say JDM razors p3wn > * :P

If I can add one other thing, I think the Japanese razors are easier to hone. I'm still having trouble with the whole process of Western razor honing, but putting a wicked edge on a kamisori could not be simpler. Anyway, not sure if that helps anyone decide, but if you are on the fence, maybe it will.

Originally Posted by kevint

I still find the symmetrical western to be a superior design,
and it took me awhile to get one to match the sweet shave i get from the occidental. But I love 'em. It is fun to shave with
I still have a problem with the idea that one should use the wakamisori without any wrap or handle. Yes, they are sold that way, but intended to be used like that- I don't think so.

I know, I have read all about how you guys love the simple look and have no problems with it.modeff

Russel Baldrige made one for me with a symmetrical grind which is a lovely shaver. I don't like the Japanese asymmetrical grinds.

WOW, thanks for posting that picture! Beautiful razor! And because it's a symmetrical grind, you can flip it over and use it just like a Western razor? Very cool! Now you got me thinking about another razor I need . . .

Yep. Except of course for the way you hold it in your hand, it shaves just like a western style razor. The line you see in the blade is the hamon which resulted from the clay coating during heat treatment.

Originally Posted by JeffE

WOW, thanks for posting that picture! Beautiful razor! And because it's a symmetrical grind, you can flip it over and use it just like a Western razor? Very cool! Now you got me thinking about another razor I need . . .

That's what we call a frankenrazor. (I don't mean that in a negative light). It has the outward appearance of a traditional Japanese razor but the grind is basically western. It's really more western because the grind and shave experience is really western.What really makes the Japanese Razor is the asymmetrical grind.