Thread: Torrey vs. Shumate vs. Bowdin

Torreys are fine razors. Hows about some pictures? Condition is EVERYTHING!

I'll have to try and get some tomorrow. I'm going window shopping again to look around a bit more and see if I cant find anything else that jumps out more perhaps.

Originally Posted by TexasShaver

I understand. I've not really found much on eBay in the way of similar razors. They are all in the $40 price range though.

you should pay the highest price you are willing to pay. One mans 20 dollar razor is another man's treasure, we do not do valuation for that reason. Just follow common sense, the blade should be in a good condition and if the price is to your liking just buy it, if not well there is plenty razors out there.

Antique shops typically count on people offering them less money. If they're asking $40, offer $30.

Originally Posted by sharptonn

Torreys are fine razors. Hows about some pictures? Condition is EVERYTHING!

Brand doesn't matter a whole lot. But "condition" _is_ everything. Buy whichever will be the easiest to clean and hone.

. Charles

Be very wary of buying used razors until you know what to look for.

Originally Posted by eod7

Be very wary of buying used razors until you know what to look for.

If what you're doing is spending expendable income on a new hobby, I'd recommend buying something cheap here from the classifieds. The antique store option is always present and you can really luck out with purchases in these places. For your first razor, if you're buying it from a dealer and not a member here, really look for something that is in 'new' looking condition.

Forget the brand. Buy the one that looks best to your eye and feels the best in your hand. Restore it and then if the others are still there, go again. Your taste will probably change (a good way to grow), but buying razors based on brand alone is unlikely to lead to your satisfaction.

Well this is my first true straight. My other is a Shavette style straight and Im wanting to move on from that. I've done some research into what to look for when buying a used razor, such as not a lot of pitting and none on the edge that gets sharpened, making sure the blade is straight and not warped, no cracks in the blade or chips and nicks in the shaving edge, and the ones I am currently looking at fit that criteria. Yes they are older, however, they dont have anything that would be a major concern from what Im aware other then some patina or slight discoloration towards the spine of the blade.

Everyone has told me to buy something cheap for my first real straight, and I figure that if I can find a decent vintage razor in an antique shop I could get it and have it honed shave ready for under $50. Sure I could spend another $30 and get a Dovo but Im not entirely sure that I want to do that just yet.

Sounds like you've done your homework. The Torrey is probably the most valuable if the condition is good, particularly if the blade style or handles are unusual. However, I have a Bowdins Wedge and it's a great little razor.