Thread: razor quality vs. shave quality

HONEMEISTERS!!!
Becoming more involved in str8 shaving, as most, I have started to purchase more str8’s. My question is… what are the major differences in terms of str8s that cost $200 vs. those that cost $30? I understand that steel is better, craftsmanship etc. But what about the shave itself? Does the str8 hold the sharpness better? Does it strop better? In other words, what did you notice when you used a really nice razor after having used one that is inferior? And when you used a nice one did it sway you from ever using a less expensive model?

Thanks, Gabriel

I started collecting str8s recently too. The expensive part, from what I've read and experienced, has a lot to do with the scales, among other things. The exotic ones are more costly, obviously, but they'll shave no better than a $50 DOVO with a quality steel blade and plastic scales. The lead-hardening process that TI uses is another cost to factor (I've heard those give great shaves with very infrequent honing). Go to classicshaving.com and read the TI story. A razor made by a TI family member will cost a fortune because of the history involved. A handmade razor like the Maesto's will cost more just like a Rolls-Royce will cost more - hand crafted beauty costs $$$$$.

I just bought an old Sheffield steel razor from a member here simply to practice honing with and it has become my best shaver. As long as the steel is of good quality (Sheffield, Spanish, Swedish; made in Solingen) you'll get great shaves if honed/stropped properly.

I'm sure the more experienced members have more to add to your thread.

-Rob

Gabriel,

I have to agree with Rob on this. I think alot of it is bragging rights. I will say I do not have a TI or one of the Maesto's specials however I do have some Dovo's Puma's Dorkos and Filarmonicas. They are all good razors but let me tell you I have two favorites I will fall back on everytime. A Wade & Butcher Wedge I got on ebay that Lynn sharpened for me and an Aevos which I got on ebay. Both of these razors didn't cost more than $35 and whenever I want a really great shave I pull them out. I am not saying the TI's or Maestro's razors are bad just that for me these work the best so far. The shave is in the face not in the razor (as long as it's properly sharpened). That's my 2cents anyway.

There is quality and there is usable quality. In otherwords, is the shaver's skill level up to the task of wringing every ounce of magic out of a DD Wonderedge?

A Porsche would look good in my driveway but I doubt I could drive it any better than my Honda Civic. The limitation here being the driver not the auto.

LG Roy

Just to clarify… I am especially interested in the shave itself. I am sure in the future I will be more interested in collecting but that ship has yet to sail. The blade quality is what I want to know more about.

Gabriel

Most of the cost is in the embellishments. Any of the brands and countries of origin you mentioned will give good shaves. Sharpness has more to do with the quality of the shave than anything. That being said, some folks just get a more comfortable shave with certain types. Some people want a full hollow-ground blade, some want half, some want a wedge. Personally, my best shaver so far (although I just got 2 in from Lynn I can't wait to try) is a 6/8 Barnsley & Sons Sheffield. It has a full hollow grind, with a thick, heavy spine. Amazingly good shave (and I'm doubly proud of it because I hone all my razors myself). If you find a grind type that works for you, and it's by a reputable source, and you get it sharp properly, you'll get a good, comfortable shave. I can't imagine a $200 highly embellished Dovo shaves any better than the $75 plain-jane version, which has the plastic handles and no gold inlay. It's prettier, sure, and there's greater pride of ownership, but as far as the shave quality, there's probably not a lick of difference.

Mostly I agree that there's not much difference between the $50 Dovo and the $150 Dovo, but they may take a little extra care to be sure the higher quality blades are a little nicer. How much and whether it actually makes a difference in the shave is up for debate ... right here now that I think of it.

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