Need suggestions on what straight to add my den this year.

I have made my decision, I will go with the double shoulder bellied hollow model 14 Koraat.... and then I will decide between a Max Sprecher or Joe Chandler or M. Martinez to add to the stable. Sunday I will sort through the line up and decide who will go to new homes.

For those of you have not dealt with Ulrik at Koraat, it is a treat to work with this man to select a razor. He came back with an email right away to me, remembered I am a repeat customer and with suggestions how to address my concern about blade flex. So I am excited about my new Koraat so I will update this thread when it arrives. Ulrik said the new model is popular so it will be a little wait for it to arrive.

Thank you everyone for your input.

 

Keith, it sounds like a plan and a good choice. I can’t wait to read your review on the Koraat.

 

Congrats Keith - great choice!

 

Sounds good! Do you need my address for the castoffs?

 

I’m sure I have your address around here somewhere.

 

I am sure I will get a M Martinez at somepoint . Ulrik was a pleasure to deal with, I am anxiously awaiting for my razor. Max is also very nice to deal with, I am ordering another one from Max later this year. I am enjoying comparing these master forgers work.

 

Here is a question: How many of these high dollar Bladesmiths actually forge their own blades?? Do they instead, purchase blade blanks made of high quality steel, and then just form their own blade designs, by using various grinding wheels, and machines????

 

It is fun to compare the different artisans. While I enjoy the vintage blades I have a strong preference for the artisans that are making blades now.

It is some of both, some use blanks and some forge while some do both. Mastro Livi has two lines, the Grifetto and then his custom razors, The Grifretto line is from blanks while the customs are forged by ML. I think most of them do their own hardening. In general, I think you will see the difference in prices as makers who forge their own steel charge more.

I am not to focused on if they forge their steel or not, the Grifretto razors I own are excellent.

 

Thank you. That tells me you research each maker.

 

I am sure Max and Charlie Lewis go the distance with their razors. I think Ulrik does both. Joe Chandler I believe falls into the first category. I am with Keith , only because the shaves are so much better.