Okay, I know I've committed to NB16, but I think that only applies to my DE RAD. Anyway, I recently found an antique store that has at least two dozen straight razors for sale. I had no idea what to look for and they had razors from a variety of manufacturers. Some of the names I recognized and some I didn't. However, they all appeared to be in great shape. I want to go back this weekend, depending on the snow, and have another look. As a newbie, what should I look for? I can recognize rust and cracks. I've heard of the dreaded celluloid rot. How about the size? Hollow versus non-hollow? Any make I should stay clear of? Thanks
speaking as a newbe. I look for; clean no rust few stains. No cracks, blade or scales. grind, I like to hear the razor cut threw the stubble. the hollows sing. they may be easier to get sharp( experts will say for sure, but that's been my experience) size, I like a little bigger blade. 5/8 or up. they seem easier to strop. the skinny ones feel small in my hand. when stropping it feels like its too much fingertip work instead of hand work. I look at the spine for flat spots indicating hone wear. if your goodat honing you can live with some wear. I am just learning, so I don't want any more problems than necessary. shape, I've stayed with rounded ends. I've got limited dexterity( only one hand) so I started with round end to keep from stabbing my face with unnecessary points. I'm feeling a little more comfy with spikes lately. idk what the notched ones give you. a recognizable name is also nice. if a newb likeme recognizes the name, it's probably pretty good steel.
I have about eight straights I bought when I first got hit with SRAD that are good examples of things not to buy. Look at the spine of the razor. If there is uneven or excessive hone wear, I would suggest you pass on it. Look at the overall condition of the blade, is the edge smiling or frowning? If so, it might be a lot to repair. For me the thing I have to remember is that they can't all be saved, and a lot are just junk. With getting into a new RAD, you want to make sure you are getting a decent razor. I really haven't heard of any bad vintage razors, as the bad ones don't seem to have survived. (One exception is Soviet Era straits. Just pass on those.) If you see a razor with rust only where it is covered by the scales, or worse where it is covered by the scales, that one might have cell rot. I like both wedges and hollow ground razors, but probably won't get anymore that are less than 5/8 thick. Round tips are more forgiving, but the precision of a square tip is hard to beat. Have fun on the hunt, and if they will let you get pictures of them, you might get better advice. I also recommend getting your first razor professionally honed, rather than trying to do it yourself. You have to know what sharp feels like, and it makes a world of difference in the shave.
Thanks guys. I'll definitely keep these tips in mind. I will likely come back with some more questions once I start looking, but your advice is a tremendous help. Depending on the storm this weekend, I'm either digging through straight razors, or digging out of the house. We'll see!
Be sure to post some pics. Heck people might even offer to have you buy them for them! Not me of course as I am a NB16 adherent....... So far. One thing I look at is the edge condition. If it's really rusty and pitted, I tend to pass. Like others have said, keep an eye on that spine. Before I knew better, I ended up with a few Dawgs....
