Thread: Grandpa's Razor

Until yesterday, I had no idea anyone still shaved with straight razors. I saw a reference to this site on a Mason forum and checked it out on a whim. After several hours of reading the site, I think this is something I would like to get into.

I remember my Grandpa used to shave with a straight razor and had a big strop in his bathroom. He died when I was about 14 (almost 20 years ago) and I don't know whatever happened to the strop, but I have his old razor. After an hour or so of looking, I found it tonight. It's a Shumate "Toledo" and seems to be in descent shape. It has some wear, but I think it can be salvaged by someone who knows what they're doing. Ordinarily, I'd be willing to try a resto myself, but being this is the only razor I have that was Grandpa's, I don't want to screw it up. I don't want to change the scales even though it's not fancy, I just want to bring it back to life and put it back to use. Anyone know who I might be able to sent it to and have it put back to shave ready?

Here's a couple pics.




Any help would be appreciated. Once I get something I can shave with, I'll work on learning how to use it. Thanks.

Neil

I'd say that she looks to be in good shape Neil! See if one of our resident restorers posts anything.....I'd bet you can send it out to get cleaned up and honed and she'd make you a mighty fine shaver!!

Damn that looks to be in great shape apart from what looks like a slight frown. There are many honemeisters you can contact. Lynn is one (owner of SRP) and Joshearl is another that comes to mind.

Checkout www.thewellshavedgentleman.com to get yourself a good strop. Tony Miller, who owns that store is also a member here.

Last but not least, you are going to need some good quality soap. I strongly recommend you check www.thegentlemensquarter.com. They are excellent soaps, well priced and Colleen's customer service is absolutely impecable.


P.S Welcome aboard.

Looks like it doesn't need more than a good polish and a nice honing. There are a few guys around here who do the honing, you'd have to ask them about a polish. If you can't find anyone shoot me a PM and I'll see what I can do.

I've got a Schumate from my Grandfather-in-law. Mines a round point with white scales. A real nice shaver too, it takes an edge easily and hold it well.

take a look around and learn about the accessories you'll need to go along with that baby. Have Fun!!!

Thanks for the quick replies guys. I'm really enjoying the forum. I never realized how much I didn't know about shaving, even though I've done it at lease 5 days a week for the last 18 years.

I've already got a good list of bookmarks on site for accessories. I figure I'll end up with a Tony Miller strop. I'm a sucker for good leather. I also know that I'll have to completely change my shaving product list. I forsee a full compliment of soaps, lotions and aftershaves.

My shaving routine is as follows: usually don't shave on weekends, use a disposable on Monday morning, then electric through the week. I've never been happy with my shaving skills, even though I usually try to do a good job. I end up with missed spots and/or burn and ingrown hairs.

I guess one problem is that I've never been taught how to properly shave and care for my face. Looks like this forum may be what I've been needing.

I'll see who responds to this in the next day or so and maybe contact Lynn or Josh. I also saw that the guy who goes by GSSixGun seems to be a Shumate enthusiast.

Neil

My opinion is that you need to get another razor to learn on. It's not uncommon for people to trash their first razor with stupid mistakes like dropping it or smacking it against the faucet. Start out with another razor that does not have sentimental value. Once you are comfortable and confident with it, then start using your grandpa's razor.

Good luck with it!

Originally Posted by 1911-Neil

I also saw that the guy who goes by GSSixGun seems to be a Shumate enthusiast.

Neil

Yea Glen will set you down the right path..... the path to RAD

I'm watching a few on the bay. Like the potato chips, I doubt I can have just one.

Originally Posted by 1911-Neil

I guess one problem is that I've never been taught how to properly shave and care for my face. Looks like this forum may be what I've been needing.


Neil

Pretty funny huh! If you listen to the metrosexuals or the Queer eye guys you need to learn about moisturizers and exfolients and facial peels, when us real men know its all about knowing how to wield naked steel next to our jugulars correctly that leads to proper skin care

Sending PM, I seem to be doing a lot of Granddads razors lately.