Thread: New to collecting - first buys

I am new to collecting straight razors and I am not sure what to look for. I basically picked these two up a shop for super cheap, based solely on the aesthetics.

I have a Thistle brand razor with IMO a very nice set of scales (see I am learning the language!). What I am interested in is the age of the razor, what the scales are made of, what the name of the tip style is (blunt end of the blade with the curve) or is it just broken and is this a good find. I would consider restoring this one since I really like the scales a lot.









This second one is in pretty rough shape. It is a Dubl Duck Satinedge with clear (plastic?) scales with a yellowish tint. I think this one is byond repair but I bought it because the scales were pretty and i really liked the two ducks and the Satinedge logo (copper?)







Thanks for looking and any information anyone is willing to provide. I am really loving these forums and I hope to someday pluck up the courage to use one of these bad boys (well maybe not these two but a nicer one that is actually sharp) for what they were designed to do.

Welcome to SRP. Sad to say the point ends on both of those are broken and the dubl duck may be showing the beginnings of celluloid rot. Go to the link in my sig line below and you'll find the SRP Wiki.

Welcome to the foums!

The first razor is probably around 1920s ...the fake-bamboo style celluloid scales are fairly common. The blade looks to have some scuffs and scratches, and as for the point...unfortunately it is cracked / chipped off. You might be able to turn it into a shaver, but it'd require some work, maybe rounding off the point and then restoring the edge on the hones.

As for your Dubl Duck, that one can't be saved.. you have huge chips, and a large crack that goes into the edge about 1/8" at least...

As for the scales, yes, they are pretty, but, they are suffering from something we call celluloid rot. all celluloid breaks down over time, and when it does, it emits a gas that attacks the steel. Not something the manufacturers planned for back in the day

So, unfortunately, the dubl duck scales will have to be tossed / can't be used on another razor, and the blade itself is trashed.

Check out the "Ebay 101" thread in the e-bay forum. there are a lot of things that the guys in that thread have been pointing out to look for when buying a straight.

You're 0 for 2, i'd say, so far, but, I bet you had a ton of fun picking them up. And now, you get to go find some more, since these simply won't do. Haha.

Welcome!
You made no mention of any interest in shaving with a straight. I'd say if you really want to take up collecting them, then you really should consider at least trying one for a while. It would certainly increase your appreciation for the tools you are considering collecting.

Just my opinion.