Thread: Are More Expensive Razors That Much Better?

There could be some differences, but I don't think somebody buys a 300 dollar razor because they think it's going to shave "better" than a 100
dollar razor. MHO

If I ever spend that kind of money on a razor, it better wake me up in the morning and wash my back in the shower...

I have a big Wade and Butcher that takes the dog out for me. Even gives him a treat when he brings him back in. Now, that's a quality razor!

I have a handful of new razors which shave wonderfully, but my vintage ones are also wonderful. The most expensive ones I have are Thiers-Issard and they give an amazing shave. Of course, a lot of this is probably related to my technique, which has improved a fair bit in the past ten shaves or so as things start to click.

My best shaver is one of the cheaper razors I own.
My favorite razor to shave with is the most expensive razor I own.
I also shave regularly with a blade made in the 1700's - it is a decent shaver, but not close to the best. I really really enjoy using it though.

There is more to the experience than just chopping down whiskers.

Originally Posted by HNSB

There is more to the experience than just chopping down whiskers.

+1
Gospel...

Originally Posted by HNSB

There is more to the experience than just chopping down whiskers.

Well said.

In the end, it's really what appeals to you the most. It is about the Journey. Cost is relative. A $500.00 blade may only be worth 40.00 next month...Who knows...Who would have thought Escher's would sell for nearly $1000.00, and 8x3 select Coticules almost $500.00. And let's not forget those Filarmonica's.

Some guys like Vintage, some the newer blades, and some,
(with money) buy lot's of customs. The closest I've come to buying a custom blade, is the Livi New Grinds.
They shave wonderfully, cost less than some of the pricey vintage blades, and are far from flashy.

Something that always makes me laugh, is when we say, Shaving with Straight razors saves you money....

For those of us with self control.

What? Don't tell me I haven't saved money buying all those W&Bs. OK, they cost a bit of money, especially that 9/8 that I got off Ebay that was really a 17/16. But I haven't had to buy any cartridges at all in months, and those cost like $20.00 for five of them. OK, I'll admit I bought a few hones, but how can you get a nicely finished edge without a 30K rock, right? The way I see it, I will have broken even in the year 2048. From then on, I'll be saving money big time if you don't count the Styptic. Man, I love saving money! I am saving money, right?

Originally Posted by ace

Man, I love saving money! I am saving money, right?

Yes. Yes you are.

Wattie,
i have to agree that a more expensive razor will not shave "3x-the-price" better than your Dovo entry-level. Nevertheless, the overall quality, subjectively speaking, will be better if that is important to you.
Good luck.

I have been straight shaving for about 11 months now and I have bought 10 razors ranging in price from $60 to $475. My oldest razor is approx. 125 years old and my newest was made this year. The variety of razors I have been fortunate to experience has allowed me to discover which size and grind I like and prefer. Being new and not honing my own razors I really could not tell you the difference between one metal and another so I basically have chosen my keepers based on size, grind, point, reputation, and looks. I have traded one razor for three (a once in a lifetime trade that I still can't believe happened), I have sold 2 razors and bought two more, and I am trying to sell 2 others so that every razor in my collection/rotation are what I like and prefer. I definitly lost money on the sales but it is worth it in the end to have the razors I will never want to sell and will pass down to my son.

If there is one thing I have learned during the past 11 months of research and learning about straights is that for everyone who says they like a particular razor there is an equal number of people who don't with the exception of the very sought after and desired brands that cost a fortune but who admits they paid $500 plus for a crappy razor. Ultimately, I think the only way to know if it is right for you is to shave with it.

My name is Brett and I have RAD!