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I am leaving friday to go to the "World Famous" Canton Trade Days with my wife. I am wanting to score a couple vintage straights. Are there any names to stay away from?, and what are some common name brand vintage razors you all would recommend? I know of Wade and Butcher and I have seen some called the Dixie Razor..If I stay with German made razors is it a pretty safe bet they would be good shavers with a little TLC?
Thanks
J
Most vintage blades are OK. Old Solingen, Sheffield, and American razors were mostly made by people who knew what they were doing. There are too many "reliable vintage brands" to list. Wade and Butcher, Boker, Henckels, Rodgers (the Royal Cutler) -- all good.
It's the _new_ stuff where you have to be careful. Print out:
Brands of Straight Razors to avoid - Straight Razor Place Wiki
and carry it with you.
"A little TLC" ??? That depends on the condition of the individual blade (especially the edge), and how good you are at sharpening and honing.
Try to avoid blades with rust on the bevel, and blades with chips or nicks in the edge, and blades with a "frown" (the center is narrower than the toe and heel).
If this is your first straight razor, and you do your own sharpening, you'll have to learn a lot really quickly.<g> Antique shop and flea-market purchases can be a good, inexpensive way to get started -- they worked for me. But expect to put in some labor.
Charles
Yes, condition is a big part of the equation. 'Project' pieces can stack up the bottom drawer rather quickly when you're starting out (nothing wrong with that if you don't mind a little frustration and head scratching:)). Look out for French blades too, they can be beauties. Good luck and I hope you have a great time.