What are good vintage razor brands?

[ccrowder]

So I am looking to start trying a straight edge razor and yes I know I will likely screw my first one up but I have always been of the mind if I am going to do something do it right and for me that means a good quality razor. I like the vintage ones since they are quite a bit cheaper and still excellent quality but I am curious as to which manufacturers were better then others.

I am still not too familiar with the brands so any input as to who made good vintage razors would be helpful.

 

[Joe Edson]

Pretty much any vintage sheffield, solingen, or eskilstuna blade will be good as well as many US brands. For your first one it really doesn't matter the maker. The vintages may be cheaper, but keep in mind if you purchase it on eBay that you will have to get it honed, preferably by a professional which will cost you another $20 + shipping.

I would keep an eye out on BST or post a WTB ad for a shave ready straight as you just never know with eBay. Or get your first one at whippeddog.com from Larry Andro.

Stropping is the most important thing when starting out to keep an edge good and I would recommend a starter strop (as you will nick it) and much practice with a butter knife to get it down before putting a razor to it.

GL on your straight journey!

 

[TstebinsB]

Section 5:6 - Razor Brands The New, the Vintage and the bad!

 

[natchez]

Section 5:6 - Razor Brands The New, the Vintage and the bad!

+1 on the list Telly cited and there is this one as well:

http://straightrazorplace.com/srpwiki/index.php/Good_Straight_Razor_Brands

Also, there are many blades made in Sheffield that are really good beside Wade and Butcher and Wosterholm. As noted above, there are also a host of German made razors that were made well.

When you are starting, it is likely best to stick with the more known brands. After a while you, as many of us have, try a few more unusual or lesser known razors. Good luck and have fun!