Purchasing a vintage straight

[Omak]

So I walked around my local antique mall today and saw a couple razors, but never having shaved with a straight I wouldn't purchase one. I've read the sticky and it doesn't give much of a "what to look for when purchasing"

One razor, looked nice, it was $12 and the razor open and shut nice, wasn't loose or tight. A quick google search came up with nothing on the manufacturer (W.E. Jones Cutlery Co) so I passed.

I see on the wiki some makers, and there is a note on one page that says don't buy if there is no makers mark. I assume unknown maker is also a "don't buy"

So, give me some tips if you can, thank you.

I tried to resize but picasa won't let me at the moment, sorry if the photos are large

 

[Luc]

I could only find that W.E. Jones Co. was registered here: http://businessprofiles.com/details/w-e-jones-cutlery-co/MO-00020928

Nothing else, it doesn't mean they aren't good. Maybe they didn't sell many straights or for a short period of time...

I would avoid razors made in Pakistan or those who don't have any markings. Other than that, should be fine. Keep in mind that a good maker doesn't mean a good razor. If the edge is rusted, it's no good. Have you seen this page: http://wiki.badgerandblade.com/What_to_look_for_when_buying_a_second_hand_straight_razor

 

[Omak]

Nope, I bet that's helpful. Maybe a link to that should be added to the sticky

 

[Luc]

Nope, I bet that's helpful. Maybe a link to that should be added to the sticky

It's part of it already and the Interactive guide to straight razor shaving.

 

[Omak]

Sorry, still working out how to navigate the wiki. Mods can lock the thread, I've got plenty of info

 

[Luc]

Sorry, still working out how to navigate the wiki. Mods can lock the thread, I've got plenty of info

There might be someone else with different/more information out there...

 

[Alum of Potash]

For $12, it looks good to me as a nice razor to learn honing with. If you are ready for this, I'd say buy it, although it may have a hint of frown (can't really tell from the pic). Interesting stand as well. Looks like it was intended for straight razors.