Thread: A Few Nice Razors. Any Suggestions for a noobie?

I recently got the itch to toss the crappy expensive disposable razors that i have used since i started growing facial hair, and start using a straight razor. I have been thinking about trying to use one for a few weeks now, and after researching them a bit I want to get started ASAP. I have been thinking about buy a new Dovo or Boker, but they are pretty expensive, and from what I've read old razors are great if not better than new ones.

My Wife's grandfather was a barber, and my in-laws have had a nice collection of his razors on display for years. While I admired them before, with my new urge to use one, I asked if i could have one to restore and use. I was given the opportunity to "take my pick" of one. So my question for the Straight razor aficionados is simple. Which one should i choose?

There are 4 that really stand out to my eye, but I'm having a difficult time picking the right one. I'm leaning towards the Otto Deutsch's HANS. It's in the best overall condition (as are all of them), but it also seems to be the best built to handle my using it to shave with for a while before buying more straight razors for daily use.


I also like the Worcester because of it's unique scales and nice "Extra Hollow Ground" writing on the blade. The down side to this razor is there is a crack on the end of on scale, and the slightly loose blade does not rest straight into the scales without closing it gently. A very usable razor, but i worry about further damaging it with use.


I also like the fancy scales on the Wm Elliot & Co. Razor. It is built very nice as well. last on my list is the D.C. & H.C. Empress of India blade. I like the look of the blade on this one, but the down side is it's a lighter and thinner blade. I have been reading the larger 6/8's blades are better for a beginner like myself.


If anyone can give me more information about the Worcester and Wm Elliot scales, and the empress razors that would be very much appreciated as well!

Thank you for taking the time to help me out!

Welcome to SRP, Groth! Colour me jealous because you have a veritable harem of beautiful razors from which to choose
I won't venture an opinion as to which one to select -- I'll let the vastly more experienced senior members chime in and not have my meager opinion affect your final decision. "Mr. Lynn Abrams to the white courtesy phone, please!"

If it was me, hands down the Otto Deutsch. This is one of the premier razors out there and a collectors item. While the rest are nice this would be the one. I keep looking for one that I could afford. This is one of those razors on the "list"...lol

Welcome to SRP. All the razors are good shavers. The Otto Deutsch may be the more collectible it is also prone to cell rot. This is where the celluloid scales let off a corrosive gas which rusts the blade and any other metal it can reach. There is no cure for cell rot other than replacing the scales. From your pictures it doesn't look like the Otto has cell rot yet and it may be years before it starts or it may start tomorrow. Search SRP or Google Cell Rot for more information and examples. This is not unique to Otto Deusch razors but is common with celluloid materials including old celluloid movie and still film. I would suggest you pick the razor that appeals to you the most. This will enhance your straight razor learning curve and promote use of the razor. I look forward to reading about your selection and adventures in straight razor shaving. Good luck.

Out of those you've listed, I'd use the Otto as well. My barber uses one on me and it's incredible shaver once its dialed in. Great family heirloom!

Thank you all for your input. I think i will stick with the otto. It was my first choice since it seemed to be the best off for restoration and use. I'm even more excited to use it now that I know it is an awesome classic and good shaver. I Hope to have my first shave within in a week or so.

Many thanks

P.S. If anyone has info on the others, I still would like to know more about them.