Thread: Where to get antique razors to restore in UK

Hi, does anyone know of good places in the UK where you can buy old straight razors?

I wish to buy some old blades to restore myself. I tried a local antiques store in Glasgow (Scotland) but was informed by the owner that it was illegal for them to sell them as they are classified as weapons .

I've looked on eBay but was wondering if anyone here had any other suggestions?

Your local antique store owner is talking out of his rear end. You will occasionally find straights this way but not many in my experience so Ebay is a good source if you know what to avoid. If there is only one grainy picture or you can see chips in the bevel, extreme hone wear or severe pitting - give them a miss, there's plenty of others.

Aren't there any flea markets in the UK ?

Here in France, it's a very common thing, to the point that on French forums you will usually find a flea market section.

If so, I would advise frequenting them frequently, the best purchases are to be made there

Don't they have at op-shops? My best guess is to occasionally check if they by any change have straight razors. In holland they sometimes do.

Thanks for the replies. I gave eBay another look and saw some old straight razor blades for sale (no scales). Decided to buy them as they don't have any chips on the blade and don't look like they have heavy hone wear. I really just want some blades to practice restoring. I plan to make my own scales for them.

In the future I'll try looking at flea markets and other antique shops.

When I used to visit old time barbers, back in the 1980s, I'd bring a few straights along with me. Old Sheffields and maybe an old Solingen or two. I'd show the old guys my razors and tell them I collect them. I found this worked well to 'break the ice.' Next thing would be them showing me their kit.

When I just walked in off the street and asked if they had any razors for sale, most of them would just shake their head no, and look at me suspiciously. For all they knew I was a nut who wanted to cut someone's throat. Showing them a bit of a collection created a whole different situation.

I did suspect that the guy thought me suspicious just coming in and asking for straight razors. I was wearing a shirt and trousers so looked more presentable. Then again that could have made me look even more dodgy!

I'll keep this in mind next time I go to an antiques store

Originally Posted by ashmanq

I did suspect that the guy thought me suspicious just coming in and asking for straight razors. I was wearing a shirt and trousers so looked more presentable. Then again that could have made me look even more dodgy!

I'll keep this in mind next time I go to an antiques store

If I happen to go to an antique store I never start out asking for razors. I always ask if they have any 'barber shop memorabilia'. Especially with you in the UK. Here in the colonies we would say straight razors ........ you more than likely would say 'cut throat' razors.