Jason , I've owned both an vintage R-400 (unnumbered) and a couple reproductions. Though I understand the desire to have the original inspiration, they are of cast aluminum and very light weight. The casting process and time leave many with pits and inclusions that can't be polished out for that flawless shine. The Next Generation tend to be machined from billet and a better grade of metal to start. They can be purchased with extra ferrules for knot hot swapping. Extra large, thin walled ferrules will hold knots that the originals won't accept without modification.

If you're on the sidelines about investing in an aluminum unit, try one of those fluorescent plastic one. Downside is non-removable ferrules. On the up they are inexpensive so you can get the feel if you want to go big time.

My lawn care guy cut mine yesterday. Not the grass. just the volunteer sprigs with flowers sticking up through the lawn. I think my lot is 50' X 150' with much of it covered by house, porches, garage, driveway & sidewalks. Usual charge is a couple gallons of gas, a couple 40 oz. beers, or five bucks.

I hear you Danny. That box of SRs keeps looking at me. I know where the barber's hone is. I did a month of shavette in January...

Thank you, Bruce. It was indeed a gym shave this morning.

Awesome picture, Jason!

I have a few and one I tried to sharpen myself with a barber's hone. I did shave with it but is was just to "tuggy" and not smooth. I am sure it needs a professional's touch.

I agree, Palmolive is a great soap and cost effective as well.

If you don't mind a repo then this is the way to go. Solid aluminum, the only down side it that you cannot swap the knots with different ferrules. I love mine.

https://www.italianbarber.com/produ...tic-shaving-brush-silver-handle&source=search

Terrific picture, Randy!

You guys are both right of course, and practical. I sometimes like the age/coolness combo with shaving things. It is why I wanted a New Improved with the iconic handle as well. I know the modern versions of the 400 are better in terms of construction, I just like the idea of the 70 year old version. I am also amused by bright lights and shiny things...

I'm encouraged by Joseph @Primotenore who has been maintaining his edges. Then I'd need to get a Norton 4k/8k, a 12K, a couple Nats...
At least I already have a nice strop. Want to know how many nicks it has? Opps, not supposed to talk about that.

Thanks Bruce.

Maybe someday, Jason. You never know.

Ha! I am the Executor.

Thanks, Jim.

I don't want to know what you had to do to get that position!

Another great report and photo Joseph


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Second snow day in a row, then back to work for my last that there tomorrow and new job starts in Monday!

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Great looking shave and photo Jason.


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