Thread: Yet Another Damascus Razor Question

Hi,


I have the chance to buy a German razor that is stamped Damascus steel from an antique store for less then $100.00. It is definitely an antique, but I have been reading that Damascus steel has not been made for 200 years. Even though this is an old razor, not a Pakistan knock-off, could the name Damascus still just be a gimmick? I don’t want to spend more then this razor may be worth.

Thanks,


John

It is probably not damascus. There are lots stamped damascus that aren't. Some are even etched to look like it.

Originally Posted by holli4pirating

It is probably not damascus. There are lots stamped damascus that aren't. Some are even etched to look like it.

+1 probably not "true" damascus

Remove the word "damascus" from the game and
ask yourself if you would love to shave with it for
the price. If it needs work (new scales or more) discount
it to where the price seems right and then reconsider the
purchase. Most old German razors are worth bringing
home if the price is right.

John, what brand is stamped on the tang ? Is it in pristine condition ? Under $100 bucks might be worth it or it might be way overpriced depending on how far under and on what it actually is.

Damascus, Magnetic, Silver Steel, India Steel were common etchings on blades some years ago. Pattern welded steel, A.K.A. Damascus is usually only found in custom razors today and in limited editions by Boker, Theirs Issard, and Wacker. I don't know of any vintage razors that were made of that material.

Originally Posted by niftyshaving

+1 probably not "true" damascus

Remove the word "damascus" from the game and
ask yourself if you would love to shave with it for
the price. If it needs work (new scales or more) discount
it to where the price seems right and then reconsider the
purchase. Most old German razors are worth bringing
home if the price is right.

Good advice. I will consider that.

Originally Posted by JimmyHAD

John, what brand is stamped on the tang ? Is it in pristine condition ? Under $100 bucks might be worth it or it might be way overpriced depending on how far under and on what it actually is.

Damascus, Magnetic, Silver Steel, India Steel were common etchings on blades some years ago. Pattern welded steel, A.K.A. Damascus is usually only found in custom razors today and in limited editions by Boker, Theirs Issard, and Wacker. I don't know of any vintage razors that were made of that material.

I did have that info, but left it at work. I will post that tmrow. I do recall that even though it's stamped "Germany", it also is from a company in Illinois. The antique shop is holding it for me. But I don't have to rush into a decision. One thing I am starting to realize is that there are a lot of razors out there, for reasonable prices. No need to "panic buy"

Thanks for all the input.