I've got a French made Thiers Issard straight razor that I bought brand new from a mail order tool vendor known as Garrett Wade. I got it about ten years ago. They were selling a limited amount of them and they stated that this razor was high quality and had collectible aspects to it. Out of curiosity I went ahead and shelled out about $90 for it.

I was wondering first of all if any of you other guys might have that same razor? Also I'm new to this game and I'm wondering if indeed that particular make of razor is a good one. I do know that it is made in France. It has gold leaf work on the blade and it says "Sheffield Silver Steel".

I have another question. I've been hitting a few garage and estate sales here lately and I've been seeing a few straight razors for sale. I've heard that almost all of the straight razors made in Solingen Germany are usually made with good steel. Is that true? And what should I look for when checking out these garage sale and flea market razors?