First, I am new to the forum and apologize if my questions can be answered elsewhere - but I have done a good bit of sleuthing on the internet and tried searching the archives of this forum but still need some advice and guidance. I have some questions about some razors I have had kicking around for a number of years.

First, I have a razor that is stamped "W. Greave" that I think is William Greaves? The scales are quite primitive - appear to be from a single piece of white oak with a crude kerf cut to allow the blade to be protected. The single pin (where the blade pivots) is steel and same style of the later brass ones I have seen photos of for W. Greaves & Sons razors. I think the bushing on one side is missing, but the remaining steel bushing is identical in style to later Greaves razors.

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My questions are: 1) is this razor as old as I think it is? 2) should I have it restored or stabilized, and 3) if restored can I use it or is this a collectible? I would not want it restored to look like new, but simply restored to prevent further deterioration.

The second razor I have is in much better condition and not nearly as old. I have the case as well and the box is labelled "The Alpha Company, 142-144 N. 9th Str., Philadelphia, PA, Made in Germany, Blue Steel XXX". Am I correct in assuming many businesses had razors made by a manufacturer to sell under the own name? I can't find anything about The Alpha Company in Philly (and the address appears to be in Chinatown, although there is no longer a 142-144 street address on N. 9th Street). The blade is labelled "THE ALPHA Co., Phila., Made in Germany" on one side and "XXX, Blue Steel" on the other. The scales look like bone or ivory but very flexible so I am thinking synthetic or horn. Any info or corrections regarding my assumptions are appreciated. I think I am going to have to go to the Philadelphia library to find out anything about this business because there is nothing on the internet (that I have found).

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Finally, the third razor is marked on the blade "James Barlow & Sons, Manufacturers Sheffield, Corporate Mark, ECHO". As you can see, the blade has some serious damage. Can it be ground and honed so that it is useable, or is it too far gone?
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About 5 years ago I got sick of paying for expensive cans of shaving cream rusting on my vanity, so I bought a shaving brush. Now that I am really tired of buying a new shaver (for the latest, greatest, multi-blade razor every 2 years because of planned obsolescence by big corporations) I am going to delve into the realm of straight razor shaving. I think the Alpha razor could be a daily shaver - what about the other two?

Thanks for any info, advice, or suggestions folks provide.

New member,

Duane