Thread: USMA/vintage Army straight razors

I just joined because you all seem like the kind of group that can answer my question:

My husband has been really interested in starting to use a straight razor so I'm putting together a really nice birthday present of shaving paraphernalia. He's a graduate of West Point so I thought it would be cool if I could find him a vintage razor either issued there or in the Army in general. So my question for you razor history buffs is this:
Did West Point ever issue straight razors back in the day? If so, does anyone have any info on them or pictures? Also, where in the world does a shaving novice find such a treasure?

If they didn't, where can I find a World War era razor, preferably with the case?

Thanks for all your help!

I think you'll eventually find something. I have a razor that, if I remember correctly, has 'Army Special' or something like that etched on the blade. I don't know if it was Army issue, and tend to doubt it, but I think you'll find something that will serve your purposes.

Only tangentially related to your question, but nevertheless a cool thing to know: a friend who was a reserve officer for the MP (Canadian Forces) told me that officers are still offered the possibility of using a straight razor as part of their standard issue kit.

Not sure how many took advantage of the the offer, but I'm sure there must be a few standard issue straight razor hither and thither.

Yes, anything that uses Marine Corps and WW II in the same sentence is pricey.

Were I you, I'd look for a nice, but plain razor (no blade etch, etc and black scales) from the 1930s to 1950s. First, anything military issue is usually plain and the price for a nice one shouldn't be over $50. And secondly, there will be a wide variety of makers to choose from.

As to whether or not the USMA issued straights, I can't say. But currently, new cadets must bring a 30 day supply of razors. I take it that's 30 razors, or one per day.

Gwen, how lucky can you get, I just happen to have the very razor Joed is talking about laying next to my laptop. Here's the deal, send me a PM with your address and I will put a kit together. The kit will include; the aforementioned razor, a strop, a brush, a decent soap as well as a gift box.

Here is one of the Torrey's on ebay, it would need cleaning and to be honed up before it would give a good shave.

J. R. Torrey & Co. US Army straight razor, celluloid - eBay (item 320656005592 end time Feb-18-11 16:00:42 PST)

Originally Posted by nun2sharp

Gwen, how lucky can you get, I just happen to have the very razor Joed is talking about laying next to my laptop. Here's the deal, send me a PM with your address and I will put a kit together. The kit will include; the aforementioned razor, a strop, a brush, a decent soap as well as a gift box.

Kudos to you, sir!

Originally Posted by nun2sharp

Gwen, how lucky can you get, I just happen to have the very razor Joed is talking about laying next to my laptop. Here's the deal, send me a PM with your address and I will put a kit together. The kit will include; the aforementioned razor, a strop, a brush, a decent soap as well as a gift box.

Very nice offer Kelly!. Gwen I encourage you to contact him and find out what he may have for you. I'm sure it will be wonderful!

Originally Posted by nun2sharp

Gwen, how lucky can you get, I just happen to have the very razor Joed is talking about laying next to my laptop. Here's the deal, send me a PM with your address and I will put a kit together. The kit will include; the aforementioned razor, a strop, a brush, a decent soap as well as a gift box.

The word Gentleman comes to mind here. It is what makes the SRP family great. (I used family instead of community on purpose)

If I can help, let me know.

Gwen, a few weeks ago i came across a link to gentlemensbest Laser Engraving they offer a laser engraving service. just in case your not able to find a military straight razor. you can always have his name or something else engraved on the spine