Thread: Looking for some constructive criticisim

take a look at the attached and let me know what you think.
the two razors in wood scales are 440C Stainless Steel. one in rose wood scales and the other in dark walnut. they are my first attempts. The last two razors are O1 tool steel with carbon fiber scales and Delrin wedge. i am currently shaving with the 440 but the O1 still requires hardening and final grinding. I have made these without owning a "regular" straight. I have also been wet shaving for only 2-3 months. I feel like there is a lot that i am over looking. let me know what you think.

Those look great. Keep up the good work. How do they shave?

They seem to get better with every shave. Whether it is my skill in honing, stropping, or just shaving technique is hard to say.

That's great. It's good to have a Toronto local making custom razors. Hope to see some more coming out of your workshop.

Some Constructive criticism....

On the first razor, the scales seem to large for the blade and the peening a bit large and rough.

I would get yourself a shave ready "Regular" straight to get a better idea what you are aiming for.

First, thank you. Second, I think that I need an explanation of the scales being too big. Are you talking in regards to thickness or just over all they look too chunky?

Originally Posted by racenutt68

First, thank you. Second, I think that I need an explanation of the scales being too big. Are you talking in regards to thickness or just over all they look too chunky?

I would say they look to chunky. they somewhat dwarf the blade IMO and could stand to be thinned a little. and i would a agree the pivot pin could be smaller as well. FWIW my taste is to have the blade the focus of the razor and the scales complimenting it but YMMV.

But its a GREAT start!!!! Keep at it and look forward to seeing more!

I have to be honest and say I'm not a big fan - I would say it's obvious that you don't own an actual straight razor from which to base your design.

Looks like you have the ability to make a good razor, but not the knowledge of the details. I also have to say that unless you'd plan to sell them, the only opinion that really matters is yours.

Originally Posted by ats200

I have to be honest and say I'm not a big fan - I would say it's obviously you don't own an actual straight razor from which to base your design.

Looks like you have the ability to make a good razor, but not the knowledge of the details. I also have to say that unless you'd plan to sell them, the only opinion that really matters is yours.

What would you say makes it obvious that I do not own an actual straight razor? You stated that my design seems a little off, what about it is out of the norm? Or would you say that something does not appear that functional? Be as blunt as you wish, please.

hard to tell exactly but it seems like there is absolutely no tapering and no defined spine or shoulder. I also think the tang is a little thin on the second razor which doesn't look bad but might be weird when stropping.