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Trawling the web I happened upon a German site selling what looks like 'new' Puma straights (I know, the company stopped making razors):
www.toolshop.de
I know the vintage ones are highly sought after but was wondering if anyone here had any knowledge on these puppies?
Hope you can shed some light.
I ordered one from them about four years ago. It took several months to get to me so they had to get someone to make it I am sure. It was a good razor except it had no jimps and had nearly a mirror finish on the shank. It also did not have the rubber grip that so many of the ones from the '80s-early 90s had. I found it hard to hold on too and if a little water and shaving soap got on the shank it was down right dangerous - so I sold it on eBay. Other than that it was a well made razor that took a good edge. Until recently Puma razors were advertised for sale at Puma U.S.A. Puma Knife Company USA: All About SteelQuote:
Originally Posted by MrMarx
Thanks John, I got a reply from the vendor saying that Puma have started making razors again... Appreciate your feedback though.
I actually bought one prior to submitting the message - ebony scaled 5/8. Hopefully I won't experience the same issues you did - if so, there is always eBay!
MrMarx ... don't forget to update this thread with your thoughts once you receive it ... I, for one, would be interested in your opinion. Also, which scales/blade size did you order? I noticed only one was 6/8, while all of the others were 5/8.
Thanks,
Vic
Certainly will do sir, full review will be on the way once delivered...
Sorry, forgot to answer your question. The razor I went for was 5/8 round point ebony-scaled number. Was toying with the 6/8 and may go for another one if this turns out a good shaver and I don't end up slicing a wrist off in lieu of John's comments... ;)
I'm very curious too. I thought I'd heard that the trademark (and/or company?) were sold and that their products have gone downhill recently, but I'd love to be wrong about that. Please do keep us posted.
Puma was a family owned company with the leadership being handed down through generations from 1791 into the 1980s when the last surviving family member passed away if I've got the story straight.
The company was sold and the new owners closed the old Solingen factory and for awhile some production came from Solingen while some came from the orient and from Spain. Not saying that Puma branded currently manufactured razors aren't good. Just that they shouldn't be confused with the brand from the old days. Heck, they may be better, but I kind of doubt it.
I know nothing about their razors but I can tell you their knives being sold now don't hold a candle to the original Puma branded ones.
It is my understanding that when Puma stopped making their own razors; Heribert Wacker moved from Puma to Dovo where he continued to make razors marketed by Puma until he retired.Quote:
Originally Posted by JimmyHAD
That's interesting - I had not heard that; however, I think it is true with many of the well known knife companies. I have learned that if you want a really top knotch knife, have a custom knife maker do one for you or purchase one he has already made. I think the Boker "Tree Brand" knives are still pretty decent.Quote:
Originally Posted by thebigspendur
Thanks John, I do remember hearing that some were made by Dovo towards the end of the original Pumas. IME if Heribert Wacker made the razor it will be a good one.Quote:
Originally Posted by John Crowley
Gents... let's see how the razor turns and we can make our judgments. I for one am a little jaded by the feedback thus far... we'll see
Gentlemen, by way of an update, I actually changed my Puma order from a 5/8 in ebony to to a 6/8 model with horn scales.
I received confirmation today that this has shipped from Germany, so expect to take delivery in the next week or so.
I will hone her up, test shave then provide a review.
Watch this space.
Any update on these?