Perhaps in an
era of disposable everything, the non-disposable straight razor emerges as
an
environmental statement. Maybe it reminds us of a time when men knew
how to put an edge on steel. Perhaps it is because in a practiced
hand, the straight razor will shave closer with less irritation than any
other modern razor. I like to think the straight razor endures as a
reminder that sound design and quality last.
The attached ad from a copy of the 1782 St. James Chronicle attests to
the presence of concave, or hollow ground blades, since at least the time of
the American Revolution. Though there were more available blade
patterns back than there are now, modern straight razor blades follow one of
the more common patterns of history; the hollow ground blade
terminating in either a square or rounded end. Putting aside the
ornately carved ivory and bone scales of a bygone age, the straight razor
hasn't really changed all that much.
How to Choose a Razor
If you are going to buy a razor for daily use, I recommend investing in the
best quality that you can afford. There are some really cheap razors
coming out of Pakistan, but the edges aren't ground that well and the steel
used doesn't hold an edge. They're best used as props. Buying used
razors for use is also tricky unless you already know something about what
to look for.
For the average person, a new razor is the way to go. Most modern quality razors are made by either Dovo or Thier-Issard. Both companies produce a fine product. I offer the Dovo line of razors. Quality edged tools are not inexpensive, but I would argue are worth the investment. It's a one time outlay. When you consider the cost of modern razors and the monthly expense of disposable blades, these razor pays for themselves in no time. And as the ad says, "two razors and a strop, without any further expense, will serve a gentleman his whole life". I've personally used a straight razor for over 30 years and I still use my first razor and strop.
Click on either of the buttons above to view what we have to offer in both modern and in antique razors.