Thread: bengall question

I have what seems to be a bengall razor that does not have the same makers mark on the back of tang like the ones in the database. In fact it has no makers mark. The "front" of the tang looks like the "unspecified" Bengall in the database, same font, and same pattern on the tang just at the blade. In fact it is quite close, save having black horn scales, and is half hollow(by my estimation)

I just noticed this, so I'm wondering if there are some Bengalls without makers marks?
Any ideas? Or is this normal and I'm not as special as I thought?

Do you have pictures? There are instances where stamps wear off the tangs; can happen with excessive use or during cleaning/restoration. As far as vintage razors with no markings, I've not seen any that appear to have been that way originally. I know "newer" Bengalls tend to have that "band" design around the tang near the shoulder, but other razors have that too. I'm not expert enough to know if there is a unique design that only Bengall used, but I, personally, would not bet on the maker by the design.

The Bengall razor is my favorite!

I have a Bengall that only has the word Bengall stamped on the tang. I have seen some by other members that also had Cadman & Sons etc. stamped on them. I'm thinking maybe the ones stamped only with the Bengall on the tand are older? Maybe some more knowledgeable members can shine some light on the subject......................

As far as age goes it really doesn't matter as these have a reputation for being some mighty fine smooth shavers, I have to agree. I rescaled mine with Zebra Wood, a Bengall needs strips, right?

Good looking razor there...

Thanks Scott!

Anytime Bruce!

T. R. Cadman & Sons bought the brand Bengall somewhere around 1915 or there abouts. All the Bengalls that do not have the T. R. Cadman stamp are from before they bought this brand. The razor you described could be a fair bit older than the T. R. Cadman Bengalls.

Thanks for the info Nathan! I kind of figured that. I had guessed mine to be from the middle to late 1800s. As the member who started the 'Bengall Band of Brothers' stated they were under rated and I agree as anyone who has shaved with one knows. I have considered thinning my heard a bit but the Bengall is one I will keep.

thats the tang stamps, pretty cool that its that old. I got it from my fiance's mom, who found it at an antique shop somewhere in queensland. wonder who brought it with them from Britain to the land down under.

There looks to have been some resto done by way of steel wool, but it had quite a patina that I've left, and thankfully the big bevel was only slightly damaged and I was able to bring it around quite easily. I love this razor! to me the minor pitting is just adds character to this piece.