Seeking Some Advice

Hello, Long time lurker, finally ready to post.

First, Thanks for the great Forum.

I inherited a couple straight razors from My Father. He had them as part of an eclectic collection of things and never used one. I'm thinking I want to start using one, or both of them.

The thought of shaving my self with one is almost scary, especially after seeing here the story about the haunted one that slit it's new owners throat :)

They both need at the very least to be recondtioned before even thinking about use. I'm learning much about that here but now I am wondering if either of them is worth saving? Maybe I should just keep these as part of a collection, or sell them and use the money to start frresh with a new one or one that has been redone by a pro?

Here are a few pictures, sorry for the poor quality all I have is a cell phone camera. I can take more if needed.

What I can read (? = something rubbed off and not readable) on This one says
?Hessenbruch& Co
?ARRANTE??
blank space GERMANY

http://i684.photobucket.com/albums/v...05-10_1230.jpg

The box says
Will.
(shows the standing bear trademark)
Inspection
PAT.D
May24, 1881
June 29, 1889

This one has stamped into the blade on one side
Baldon
SOLINGEN GERMANY
on the other
SILVER STEEL 74A
http://i684.photobucket.com/albums/v...05-10_1227.jpg

The box is in bad shape but says pretty much the same thing on it
BALDON
SOLINGEN GERMANY
NR.74A


Thinking there will be different needs for restoring them and want to pick the best one to focus on first. If they are not very good ones I will just keep them as conversation pieces, or maybe sell them both for the money to buy something better to start using.

I have a few swords with blades that came from Solingen and thru my research of them have learned that blades from there are usually good stuff.

Thanks in advance for any info. I have searched and searched the internet and can not seem to find info on either of these.

Dutch
AKA CMS (Because Dutch was already taken)

welcome CMS

any rust on the blades?
if there is the blades will need cleaning
if not just get them honed

generally most old razors are good shavers unless they are ruined by too much corrotion

atleast if i were you i would prefer too get atleast the cleanest of these ready for use before starting the seductive habit of buying vintage razors
and the classefyeds got a lot of good ppl to get the job done
Member Services - Straight Razor Place Classifieds

The first looks like it could use a cleaning and they probably both need a honing, as janivar said check out the classifieds for an experienced honer.

+1 On the other posts. cleaned up & honed they will make for a nice starter set. Welcome to SRP keep lurking read the WIKI and ask questions ther';s always someone who will help.

Welcome CMS,

Welcome to the SRP. You've just found a great place with lots of info and help what it comes to razors.

Most of old razors are good shavers. Some are maybe better than others but it is more upon a personal opinion.
First you got to get them cleaned and sharp. They do not have to be mirror polished unless you want so. Some like old razors showing their age; others like to clean and tune 'em like they were new. It is up to you.
Your 1st picture didn't show the blade, but it looks like no bad job unless cracks or chips too wide.
Second razor (Baldon) looks to me that it won't need much work to became a shaver.
Janiver already gave you a hint that is worth looking: member services.
You will also find a huge amount of info from Wiki.

Regards,
Tomi

At first welcome to SRP
1 st picture is hard to see and my guess will be just keep it at home as a gift.
Second one is great looking blade. will shave you as long as you want to use it. gl

Thank you all for the replies.

The Baldon (second picture) was my choice as well. Both blades are in about the same condition. The Baldon seems to feels better in my hand.

Off to read and learn more.

Will soon be contacting a pro to get it back in shape and ready for use.

I will practice on the Wife's legs before using it on my face. :) (not really)

Thanks again for the wealth of information you have assembled here.