I was surfing around this evening on eBay and came across a kamisori razor and I realize I know nothing about them other than they are traditional Japanese straight razors. I would like to learn more...and I have a million questions! Does anyone shave with one? How do they differ from a traditional straight razor shave? I understand the process for honing a kamisori is different from a traditional SR. How do you hone a Kamisori razor? How do you select one to buy? It appears there are many manufacturers. What are some good brands? Which ones to avoid? Post some pics of your kamisori razors!
Here is a ton of info Obviously, a lot of honing info but I tend to BS as I hone so there is a weeeeeee bit of info in these too Normal honing Problem Honing
Avoid used Kamisori if you don't know what to look for There are a few of us on here that you can reach out to for help shopping for them
I have a Japanese kamasori and a Western style kamasori. The difference between the 2 is the asymmetrical edge on the Japanese ones. One side is more of a hollow grind than the other side and is meant to be the only side that touches the face and for this reason they come in left and right hand models.. This requires some techniques that differ greatly from traditional straight razors. Of course you can use it in the traditional way if you want. Western kamis are ground symmetrically and can be used with either hand. I was about to recommend Glen's videos, but he beat me to it.
Here's my Left Handed Kanenaga The blade is actually shiny, just bad lighting. Here's the PRC Western grind.
Glen covers the differences in the vids regarding the asymmetrical grinds- which aside from the 'non-pivoting' aspect of the traditional Japanese kamisori - are the main distinctions from traditional Western SRs. They can be used just like the western-style razor although the user must get accustomed to the kamisori's linear shape of blade and handle. Traditionally, the asymmetrical grind is meant to be used while keeping one side facing out ( the maker's stamp side). This can be challenging to do and requires practice with the kami to get used to the contortions often required to shave in this manner. Completely unnecessary to get great kami shaves, but if one is up for a good challenge. My lefty kami is identical to the one in the previous post. Good wisdom offered by Glen about not buying used without research as there are MANY old kamis out there for sale that are worn beyond help!
Thanks for the information guys...much appreciated. Can you recommend a good brand for a new kami? When I started with SRs my first purchase was a new, professionally honed Dovo 6/8. This enabled me to learn what a sharp new razor should look/feel like. Once I knew how to shave with a new one I could start honing and shaving with vintage SRs because I had a good baseline to start with. I will likely take the same approach with kamisori razors. I will start with new before I venture into used territory. Come to think of it, I don't think I have every seen a vintage or used kamisori in an antique store. I am stepping into new territory! I sense a new rabbit hole in my future...
I have three traditional Kamisori. I have no idea what the brands are. I got all three from a guy I met on Facebook. I knew I was taking a gamble on the first one, but I looked for even hone wear and a consistent size. The seller was also well regarded. My first purchase from him was successful, so I bought two more razors from him. As far as using them, you have to learn all new grips, compared to a tradional straight. They were originally used by a servant, so keeping the one side on the persons face was easier. When I use them, I switch hands and razor sides as I shave . I have to adjust the angle some as I switch sides, due to the asymmetrical grind. I have only had to maintain mine, and haven't had to do a full honing on them.
I have a couple of traditional Kamisori and this one with scales. It has an asymmetrical grind and gives great shaves. I like the shorter blade and use it the non-traditional both handed way. I'm I big fan of Kamisori. Have fun!
I lied, I have one I know the brand of. Yasuki Steel Azuma Kamisori. Only one with English characters on the blade. Great shave this morning.
The NOS Henkotsu on eBay are good solid razors http://www.ebay.com/itm/NOS-Vintage...023868?hash=item2a8c9249fc:g:fpAAAOSwEupZh8YB as are the Azuma that Adam showed you also look at the Yanamasa I have only honed ONE of them but it shaved fine I would be all over this one if I didn't all ready own one http://www.ebay.com/itm/NOS-Inoue-T...793665?hash=item2cba750ac1:g:jHoAAOSwOgdYpecf PS I will NEVER link a Bid Item if you want an opinion on one simply pm me
