Thread: Why are white handled straight razors not popular?

The header says it all. I'm a bit surprised I don't see more plain white handled plastic scales out there. What's up with that? I have a brand new Boker King Cutter with black plastic scales, I would love for it to have a matching 6/8 white scaled sister. Or 7/8 or 8/8, I'm not picky

White scales are not used because people who have tried them always lose their razors in the bathroom and then have to buy a razor with black scales so they can shave.

Because science has yet to produce a cost efficient white plastic that doesn't yellow over time? Maybe because if you are going for white, bone is a much more desirable option than plastic.

I have quite a few ivory & bone scaled razors...they are white. There is some faux ivory ones out there as well...maybe you haven't looked hard enough. I only have a couple new razors, but have quite a few old ones with white scales.

Yea I have quite few also. They are certainly out there. I would imagine white is thought of as a women's color so maybe that has something to do with it.

I was thinking the same thing. Maybe back in the day it wasn't cool to have a white scaled straight...

I would actually prefer plastic, something tells me it would take more abuse and last longer. Though, of course, not necessarily. Also my time mashine with also have white scales. Just sayin'.

Originally Posted by grant9908

I would actually prefer plastic, something tells me it would take more abuse and last longer. Though, of course, not necessarily. Also my time mashine with also have white scales. Just sayin'.

I'm not sure about that. Plastic can age harden over time and crack. Horn seems to be dam near indestructable although it can delaminate or get the occasional worm hole, but to me that enhances its beauty. Most of the old plastic looking black scales are vulcanite - wich is rubber hardened wth sulfur.

Some of the engineered wood and laminated plastic or acrylic products are quite durable.

In any case, I have black, white, ivory, blue, green, bone, horn, vulcanite, celluloid - and I love every one of the rascals.

I have plenty white scaled razors.
Most of them vintage, and still with a very nice white color.
I find them beautiful, and applaud it if everyone else doesn't

Originally Posted by Alembic

I'm not sure about that. Plastic can age harden over time and crack. Horn seems to be dam near indestructable although it can delaminate or get the occasional worm hole, but to me that enhances its beauty. Most of the old plastic looking black scales are vulcanite - wich is rubber hardened wth sulfur.

Some of the engineered wood and laminated plastic or acrylic products are quite durable.

In any case, I have black, white, ivory, blue, green, bone, horn, vulcanite, celluloid - and I love every one of the rascals.

Where did you find the blue green ones? Raiding scales from cheaper ones, or just doing custom?