Found this at a local "antique" store...liked the look, so I bought it. Got to looking at the manufacturer, and I think maybe it is a knock-off of a George Butler? Does anyone know more than the google? Thanks in advance!
According to "Tweedale's Directory", George Butler & Co. was a manufacturer of table knives, pocket knives, scissors and razors. It claims that the name "Butler" was counterfeited so much that they acquired the name "ART" in 1861 to distinguish their razors as original. They also manufactured the "Keen" razor in the late 1800s with the slogan " 'Keen as the razor's edge invisible' acid etched on the blade alongside the Bard's head." ( The Bard, of course, being Wm. Shakespeare. )
Wither its a Genuine George Butler Family Razor or Not it Should Shave Just as Well..Genuine George Butler Razors are Nice Sheffield Razors But Like Wade & Butchers the Brand Name is Somewhat Overrated in My Books...I have Honed More of Em than I Can Remember... Copy Cat Razors & Names/Brands and Industrial Espionage are Nothin New...Its Probably an Excellent Sheffield Steel Shaver.. Billy..
Some Counterfeit Intel.. http://strazors.com/index.php?id=535&doc=george_butler_and_co_sheffield_ Billy..
Strazors is certainly a very useful website for info on straights. The man also does some very nice work.
I appreciate the feedback! You are absolutely correct Billy....for a $17 antique store find, I am rather enjoying it. I sent a different blade out to gssixgun for honing...based on his advice, guidance, and videos...I've messed a bit with honing this Butler....and it does shave rather nicely! Really glad I found this board...good group of people!