Thread: W & B questions

I really want to find a Wade & Butcher wedge project razor. I would like to make my own scales and find a blade that is functionally sound, but doesn't have to be pretty. I've bid on a couple of promising razors on the auction site, but am somewhat confused about descriptions and prices. I bought what turned out to be a very nice mostly hollow older 8/8 with decent original scales for a modest price.

I got carried away with an auction that ended today for what appeared to be a wedge or near wedge with the "For Barbers Use" on the tang. The description clearly stated that the scales were in poor shape. I was embarrassed by my max. bid, but was beaten in the final seconds. This razor went for almost 3 times my last purchase. Recognizing that this does not mean much, value and winning bid do not always match, but am curious for future attempts, is the For Barbers Use designation meaningful? I've seen a few of these go for quite a bit, and other similar looking W&Bs sell for a lot less?

Any suggestions would be appreciated.

The For Barbers Use 8/8 or 7/8 razors are very desirable. I have seen some post restoration going for $500-$600 retail.

The value of a razor is very subjective and a given razor is worth what someone is willing to pay. But the bigger "Chopper" type razors do command a premium.

But They're worth it!

Mike

You guys are not helping my addiction! Does the For Barber's Use only apply to the wedge, or might it still be a hollow grind? Some of the listings don't specify and don't show the profile.

Here is a Hollow ground For Barbers use I found in a local Antique store. Paid 15.00 for it.

Much more important then any name stamped on the face of the blade is the condition of the spine...

These older Sheffields are very prone to abnormal spine wear, that is not always reflected in the edge

g

!/4 hollow ? ... not full wedge at least.

Mike

Wade and Butchers come in all kinds of grinds, and the "Barbers Use" can be found in any grind from hollow to near wedge. They're all great razors. I prefer the near wedges, but that's just me.

Originally Posted by gssixgun

Much more important then any name stamped on the face of the blade is the condition of the spine...

These older Sheffields are very prone to abnormal spine wear, that is not always reflected in the edge

g

I try to look for that, but in most of the photos, it's hard to tell. That's one of the reasons I don't want to go too high on an auction item. I'd rather find one on one of the forums from a trusted source, but most of the ones I see here are already restored.

I totally understand where you're comming from. I'm getting bit by the big razor obsession as well. I only hope the two 6/8 that Nate has done for me will hold it out longer, but it seems to be getting worse not better. Lol