Thread: Need help with a Genco.

I have come across an old Genco straight razor and was wondering if someone can help me identify it, and/or help me figure out if there is any value to it. I can make out something that says GENCO Henry's X on it if that helps. It was put away with a bunch of binoculars and other things from when my Father In-Law was in the service (WW II I believe) Any help would be great!

Thank you

Welcome to SRP! Dollar valuations for razors aren't allowed in the forum, but I can tell you that Genco razors were manufactured in the United States, and are not uncommon, which is a good thing, as they are well regarded by many forum members (myself included) as great shaving razors.

I can also say that many members here would attach a personal sentimental value (again, non-$) to "heirloom razors", that is, razors belonging to a father, grand-father, grand-uncle (for example) that found its way into their hands. I wish I could have a razor which belonged to my Grandfather, no matter the condition!

There is a "razor club" devoted to razors manufactured by this company (Geneva Cutlery Company), and you can find the club and many pictures of the different kinds by clicking right here.

You can also search the forum entering "Genco" or "Geneva" and find many threads talking about these razors. Search around, make yourself at home, don't be afraid to ask questions, and enjoy the wealth of knowledge of the membership.

PS: we love razor pictures, so feel free to post more photos of your find if you wish!

Poncho

When honing be gentle in my limited experience with razors made in this part of the US
they are harder than average steel. A heavy hand with the coarser hones might find micro chipping but
modern hones 4K and finer will do a fine job with a light touch.

The hardness can make for a fine shaver and accounts for the long list of friends these blades have.
Of interest to me is the geographic match with the makers of carborundum barber hones and
these "hard" American razors.