Best Straight Razors for Men – Reviews Updated 2018

Before You Purchase a Straight Razor:

7 Factors to Keep in Mind When You Want to Buy a Cut-Throat Razor

With the many straight razors on the market, it is a daunting process to choose the one most likely to provide you with the most satisfaction. We all want the best for ourselves which is only natural. However, getting the best is not always an easy process. The fact that there are several brands, makes and models of straight razors in the market does not make the decision-making process any easier.

If you are a beginner to the art of traditional shaving, you might also want to check out our reviews of the best straight razor kits.

Luckily, we have compiled a list of important factors to consider while making the decision. These considerations are designed to add to your knowledge of what is available as well as equip you with knowledge of the qualities making a quality straight razor whether you decide to go for the Editors’ Choice – the Dovo Straight Razor Carbon  or some other top picks.

That said, let us get into the thick of things.

Model		Blade Type	Hollowness/ Blade Width	Handle	Pros	Cons	Amazon Rating	Best Deal
Dovo Straight Razor Carbon		Round Point Carbon Steel	Full hollow 5/8	Wood	Great grip, German made handcraft, Great for beginners	Carbon steel requires more maintenance to keep it in perfect condition		See It
Feather SS Japanese Straight Razor		Round point Replacement blades	Disposable Replacement blades	Heat-resistant resin gum handle	Easy to replace blades, Convenience, Sharp blades	More expensive than other straight razors with replacement blades		See It
Parker SRW Stainless Steel Straight Edge Barber Razor		Round point Replacement blades	Disposable Replacement blades	Plastic	Beginner friendly, Easy to change blades, Inexpensive	Plastic handle		See It
Thiers-Issard 6/8" Straight Razor		Round point Carbon Steel	Full hollow 6/8	Bone scales	Good quality, Perfect grip	Carbon steel requires more maintenance to keep it in perfect condition		See It
Boker Straight Razor, King Cutter		Round point Carbon Steel	Full hollow 5/8	Plastic	Affordable, Great quality, Easy to use	Plastic handle, Might not last you a lifetime		See It
Dovo Silver Shavette Straight Razor		Square point Replacement blades	Disposable Replacement blades	Aluminum	Maintenance free, Inexpensive, Easy to learn how to use	Construction feels a bit "light"		See It
Feather DX Folding Wood Handle Razor		Round point Replacement blades	Disposable Replacement blades	Resinated wood	Great craftsmanship, Easy to use, Replace blades, Convenience, Sharp blades	Expensive		See It
Classic Samurai CS-102 Razor		Round point Replacement blades	Disposable Replacement blades	Surgical Grade Stainless Steel	Newbie friendly, Great value, Maintenance free, Plastic pouch protection	A bit heavy		See It
Ezra Arthur + Max Sprecher Custom 8/8 Straight Razor		Square point Carbon Steel	Quarter hallow 8/8	Carbon fiber uni plate	Durable, Great balance	Expensive, Needs a steady and experienced hand, Difficult to find online		See It

1. Blade Type

Top quality blades are produced with subtle but very important differences. Below is information to help with your understanding of these features to assist with your choice.

• Round Point

  This blade point is semicircular. It is devoid of sharp ends. Compared to other blade types, it proves to be slightly more forgiving. As such, it is better suited for beginners learning the art.

• Square Point

  Square point blades have a straight point profile. This terminates into a sharp point that is perpendicular to the cutting edge of the blade. It proves to be particularly useful in shaving smaller areas. It does, however, require some experience to handle correctly.

• French Point

  The profile designed on a French point blade looks like a quarter circle. It has a sharp point at the very end just like the square point. Other persons refer to it as the oblique point.

2. Blade Width

The blade width refers to the distance between the cutting edge and the back or dull edge of the blade. The width is expressed in simple 1/8 increments. As such, a 4/8 blade translates to half an inch wide while the 8/8 blade translates into a 1-inch wide blade.

I should point out that the width of the blade does in no way affect the closeness of the shave. This is provided you hone and strop the blade to give it the required sharpness. Smaller blades tend to be easier to strop than larger ones.

Large blades provide a more aggressive shave. They do, however, prove very difficult to shave under the nose especially for beginners. This goes for other hard to reach areas as well.

Smaller blades provide ample room to see where and how you are shaving.

3. Modern VS. Vintage Straight Razors

On a broad spectrum, you only have two choices to make with regards to the straight razors. This is either a vintage or modern open razor. They vary greatly and have their own pros and cons.

• Vintage

If you are into buying old products are restoring them to their original glory, or close to it, then vintage straight razors will prove to be the best and by far the most attractive option on the table. The fact that you can get them at an affordable price is certainly a plus. You should be warned though. They do require some tender care to restore them to their original glory and be perfect for shaving. If you are a beginner, it is recommended that you hone the shaving skill first with the modern open razors before jumping to the vintage varieties.

• Modern

Modern razors as you would expect have the added advantage of featuring the new technology available in the market. They feature better craftsmanship and more often than not, they have years of experience and shaving backing their design and engineering. Needless to say, the condition of modern straight razors is way better than that of a vintage blade. But then again, a vintage well-maintained razor is usually of the same quality if not better than the modern razors.

4. Temper

No, temper in this context does not refer to those moments you flip out on your family and friends. It refers to the blades ability to retain its sharpness as well as its ease of sharpening.

Blades come with three tempers including soft, medium and hard. Generally, a hard temper razor will keep the edge for longer while soft tempered edges are easier to sharpen.

5. Material

Straight razors are designed from carbon steel or stainless steel. Stainless steel usually are less expensive and also last longer between sharpenings. On the other hand, carbon steel blades are higher in quality and are slightly expensive. Most men prefer getting razors produced from stainless steel. The combination of quality and affordability is too sweet to ignore.

6. Grind

Grind refers to the concave indentation on the straight razor blades. A full hollow grind usually makes a blade sharper and lighter. On the flip side, a less hollow grind is not as sharp and is considered more suitable for beginners in the game.

7. A Shavette – What About It?

A shavette (trademark of the German manufacturer Dovo) can be likened to training wheels on bicycles. They are perfect for beginners learning the ropes and making the transition between normal shaving and the use of straight razors. They resemble straight razors in many ways. They feature a standard double-edge razor blade the kind that you would still use with a safety razor. It is a great way to get the hang of the shaving motion and generally, the technique of straight razors.

They are far cheaper compared to actual open razors. There are now several manufacturers that are using this system with their own personal touches – such as Feather and Parker.

If you want to learn more about straight razors maintenance and get in-depth knowledge about this classic tool, check out our Straight Razors Maintenance – Everything You Need to Know article.

Reviews of Top Quality Straight Razors

Dovo Straight Razor Carbon 

Dovo Straight Razor Carbon, Ebony Wood Handle. Click on the photo or the link above to check the price on Amazon.

Dovo is a German company. It is reputed for providing high-quality products. The Dovo Straight Razor Carbon is one example that is hard to beat. This beauty is also a contender for the best quality open razor for newbies. Let us have a closer look.

Tradition

Dovo has been producing superior blades for a long time. This is since 1906. They have over time built a highly respected name and solid reputation for themselves. A reputation for excellence and that is well deserved. Solingen, the part of Germany where they are based, was already popular for producing quality cutting tools when Dovo got into the shaving industry.

Convenience

Dovo prefers to ship all of its razors ready to go out of the box. This is to mean that before shaving, you do not have to take it through any setup or assembly.

Blade

The Dovo blade is full hollow, sharp and light. Additionally, it features a rounded point that is highly suitable for beginners. It is made of carbon steel that is durable, elastic and hard. The blade is a round point type – 5/8-inches wide. This is an added plus for the open razor lovers.

Handle

The handle is made from wood. It is ebony in color and looks great. Additionally, it has a strong grip and will not slip from your hand.

Edge

The edge of this blade is fine. It is as fine as gets when it comes to quality blades. This not only enhances the shave quality you get but also provides you with a graceful feel requiring no extra pressure.

Design

The Dovo Carbon features a simple design that is stylish and elegant. It looks great.

Verdict

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Feather SS Japanese 

Feather SS Japanese Straight Razor, Black. Click on the photo or the link above to check the price on Amazon.

When it comes to open razors, you will notice (if you haven’t already), the sharpness of the blade is not everything. But nonetheless, it still means a lot.

The Feather SS Japanese Razor comes in first place courtesy of its sharp blade. With this beauty, you will not have to worry whether the blade is sharp enough or not. Additionally, you have the tech backing of a famed Japanese company.

This company and brand are one of the most respected and reputable in the industry. Simply put, it is the best of the best.

Here is what has skyrocketed this straight razor into fame over the past few years. First and foremost the Feather SS is a straight razor like any other with regards to its body design and shape but features a disposable blade.

As such, you are in a way getting the best of both worlds. The sharp blade requires no stropping and honing. Its maintenance is a walk in the park, and it can easily be replaced.

But this introduces a new concept of removing and replacing the blade. Before you freak out, the removal and replacement process is a walk in the park. All you have to do is pinch the razor head and allow the blade to drop from the socket. It is an easy and fast process.

You do, however, still need to exercise caution throughout the process since after all, you are dealing with sharp blades, and any mishap could certainly spill a bit of blood.

You will be pleased to note that the blade head is spring mounted. This contributed to its ease of blade removal as well as its ease of cleaning the the Feather SS with water. I should mention that the blade is also disinfectant safe.

With that, let’s have a look at some of the other features of the Feather SS.

• Feather SS is made of stainless steel. It is built to last for ages
• The Feather SS features a resin handle. This handle sets it apart from its competition. It is heat resistant and gives a superior grip. Switching hands to get to the hard to reach and sensitive places such as the jawline and neck are easier with this innovation. While the handle is also shorter than that of many others the majority of reviewers feel it comfortable in their hands.
• The sharpness of the blade and the overall design allow for shaving without applying undue pressure.
• The handle takes 4 different Feather replacement blades (Professional, Super, Light, and Pro-Guard) that will allow you to adjust your shave to suit your skin type and beard coarseness.
• The Feather SS is comfortable and has a lightweight design. This makes it very easy to maneuver the face. Ultimately, the goal is to get a close shave every time you place the handle on your face. The Feather SS achieves this with great finesse.
• The craftsmanship coupled with the design of the Feather SS makes it very easy for newbies to handle. Shaving with an open razor no doubt requires care and technique as discussed in this piece. But it certainly does not hurt to have a friendlier learning curve.
• Blade Type – Round Point blade

Verdict

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Parker SRW Stainless Steel 

Parker SRW Stainless Steel Straight Edge Barber Razor Shavette. Click on the photo or the link above to check the price on Amazon.

The Parker SRW Shavette is designed with professionals in mind. It is however still a perfect choice for beginners and experienced shavers alike. The price is affordable and hard to beat. On top of this, it is a very high quality razor.

The Parker Safety Razor Company has been in the razor industry for quite some time. In this period, it has proven itself a leader in design and innovation. The stainless steel Parker SRW lives up to the hype and industry high standards.

Below are some of the features it sports.

• The blade cover of the SRW is constructed from stainless steel and not aluminum as many believe and as is the norm with other brands
• Reviewers have taken note of the Parker SRW in their hand. They complement its great balance and weight which make it smooth to use and nick and cut free.
• It accommodates both half double edge and single edge disposables. These blades are designed to securely snap into the blade holder. The overall design makes it easy to change the blades. It is without a doubt a great advantage for professional barbers who do not have time to waste changing blades.
• It features a rounded tip which minimizes the risk of cuts and nicks. It is beginner friendly.
• It features a 100 sharp blade perfect for professional use. It is perfect for individuals looking for comfort while shaving
• Most reviewers term Parker SRW as fun
• Blade Type – Round Point blade

Verdict

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Thiers-Issard 6/8 

Thiers-Issard 6/8″ Straight Razor. Click on the photo or the link above to check the price on Amazon.

Despite Germany being the leading manufacturer of quality blades; France is also known for its exceptional steel blades. One of the leading manufacturing companies of handcrafted steel blades in France is Thiers-Issard. Thiers Issard has been in the industry long enough producing good quality razors which have allowed them make their way to the top of the list of the best razor manufacturers.

What is outstanding about this French blade is its dependability which will always give you the shave that you desire since satisfaction is guaranteed. However, Thiers-Issard 6/8″ could fetch up to twice the price of Böker, but this could be directly attributable to its good quality and high performance that leaves you with the best shave you could get.

This mirror-polished round point blade with a width of 6/8” is a little longer than Böker which makes it more efficient despite the fact that it could demand a slightly more experience hand when shaving with it. A full-hollow designed blade with perfect forging and grounding in France and manufactured with a round nose, it has an exceptionally good look. From its appearance, it is easy to notice its high quality make.

The handle of Thiers-Issard 6/8″ is unique, designed with horn scales and with the company’s logo portrayed in black color on the razor, perfectly rhymes with its elegant look. This razor is designed to provide a firm grip when using it, and the fact that it is perfectly balanced is a plus, which gives you a satisfying shaving experience. Their steel construction is quite excellent, and amazingly among today’s many mass manufacturers of razors, Thiers Issard remains outstanding courtesy of its good quality steel construction on its products.

Thiers-Issard 6/8″ needs to be honed to a suitable edge. The honing process requires experience levels which could be uncommon for beginners since it is time-consuming and could be a little difficult.

Verdict

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Böker King Cutter 

Boker Straight Razor King Cutter White Handle. Click on the photo or the link above to check the price on Amazon.

The Boker King Cutter is one of the best in the market. This razor being a product of Solingen, Germany is definitely of good quality with high performance. One great thing about the Böker King Cutter razor is affordability, and it leaves you with a perfectly smooth shave. So what has made this razor earn its way to top best straight razors? Well, if the quality of razor is something to go by, then this baby has it all. Designed with one of the best blades, it very efficient and does its job day in and day out nicely with a minimum of hassles. After using Boker King Cutter, you might never want to try another due to its reliability, performance, and durability. Sometimes this razor comes with a “Böker USA” brand. This should not worry you because it implies that the razor was assembled in the USA but not that it is made there. Even when assembled in a different country, Boker King Cutter maintains its high-quality standard. This razor is constructed with a 5/8” carbon-steel round point blade that is reinforced with alloy. The alloy enhancement improves the functioning of the blade since it assists the blade to be ground to a suitable edge.

With a design of a rounded point that is filled with full-hollow-grind, it is quite easy for beginners to make use of Boker King Cutter with ease. The plastic material used to construct its handle makes the Böker King Cutter quite light and can be easily balanced during your shave. Despite the fact that it comes as a “’shave ready”, you need to strop it before you begin your shaving. However, with continual usage, you are going to gain experience and will likely fall in love this beauty.

Verdict

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Dovo Silver Shavette 

Dovo Silver Shavette Straight Razor. Click on the photo or the link above to check the price on Amazon.

It is important to bear in mind that while the shavettes are considered to be more of training wheels in the wet shaving industry, it does not mean that they are of low quality compared to other open razors. This clearly stands out with the Shavette Straight Razor.

While it is a beginner razor, perfect for beginners needing some time to master the art of this type of shaving, it works great for pros as well. It is a perfect means to try straight shaving while keeping your initial investment to a minimum. The Shavette is well priced, and despite the fact that the square point blade is disposable and you have to replace it regularly, it is a fairly easy blade to maintain. But when you look at it from the perspective of the requirement of sharpening blades, it is not expensive. As a matter of fact, they help you save some cash on this end.

While this has the style and looks of a traditional razor, in the way it folds, it is lighter. With the Silver Shavette, there are also blade holder options with regards to color and blade. These are green, black and clear.

Every holder comes with a different blade type. The clear for instance features a double-edged blade that is split into two portions while the black features a blade similar to the double-edged blade, only longer.

Last but not least, the green unit features a blade that is stiff compared to the other two types. Its blade length resembles the traditional open razors.

Note that the green and black holders are costlier than the clear holder. Also worth noting is that while the blade’s sharpness is a great thing, you need to take extra care not to nick or cut yourself.

Verdict

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Feather DX Folding Wood Handle 

Feather DX Folding Wood Handle Razor. Click on the photo or the link above to check the price on Amazon.

The Feather DX is perfect for shaving purists. The beautiful wooden handle is a very classy touch. It delivers a close and smooth shave especially in the hands of an experienced straight razor shaver.

The Feather shaving Company has been in the game for more than 80 years. As such they certainly know a thing or two about the shaving industry – “cut throat” razors to be specific.

The Feather DX round point blade is replaceable. The blade is as sharp as you would expect in any other quality product. And the best part is that they need no stropping or honing either. The blade head is spring mounted and features a one-touch mechanism that makes it easy to take apart and reassemble during cleaning. To keep the handle of the blade at your desired angle is a pivot screw. It also helps to maintain constant tension.

The handle is made from resinated wood which is a special polymer that is chemical and water resistant and is heat treated. With these qualities, you can easily sterilize the razor in boiling water.

The sharp blade means that one wrong move can have you shedding a bit of blood. It is imperative to exercise care and caution while shaving.

Verdict

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Classic Samurai CS-102 

Classic Samurai CS-102 Razor. Click on the photo or the link above to check the price on Amazon.

This masterpiece is perfect for both pros and newbies in the game. Classic Samurai CS-102 has a lot playing in its favor. With it, you enjoy a great shaving experience at a fraction of the cost of other open razors. But this low price does not mean cheap or inferior quality. On the contrary, it is loved and preferred by professionals for its high quality.

Here are some of the many features:

• Classic Samurai CS-102 is made of stainless steel. It is easy to take apart change parts and reassemble as needed
• The Samurai CS-102 features a great synthesis of weight and balance. It is user-friendly especially for individuals learning the technique
• It comes in a pouch (plastic) for added protection. This helps to extend the life of the straight razor
• It is offered in a range of colors
• Round point disposable blades

Verdict

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Ezra Arthur + Max Sprecher Custom 8/8

Click on the photo or the link above to check the Price on Amazon

How much are you willing to spend on razors? If you are willing to spend huge, then this model is the one to buy. Its high price could be attributed to the admirable features that this razor possesses. Being a product of collaboration with the famous artisan Max Sprecher, its quality has to be worth your money. Inspired by their slogan “Designed for Life” Ezra Arthur (former Bison) is known for its outstanding quality products. They have earned their way to the top of my list due to the high durability and quality level of the products they manufacture. With a Ezra Arthur + Max Sprecher Custom 8/8, your investment in quality and durability is at its maximum, and it leaves you with nothing else other than fulfillment after using it. Your shaving experience is about to be made better with this outstanding performing straight razor.

This large 8/8” quarter-hallow grounded square point blade is constructed using carbon steel with a strength that enables the razor to have a long life. From its durability, Ezra Arthur + Max Sprecher Custom 8/8 could last throughout your lifetime which explains why it comes with a relatively higher price. Its wedge is designed with banded faux-ivory, it is assembled with brass pins, and its handle contains scales constructed from uniquely high-density carbon fiber. Ezra Arthur + Max Sprecher Custom 8/8 is quite different from other razors regarding weight; it is heavier than most others weighing up to 2.5 ounces which could be due to its length. However, you hardly feel the weight once you begin your shaving process. The balance of this razor is made perfect which gives you the best feeling when on your skin during shaving. It might not be the best razor for anyone that is new in using open razors.

Verdict

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German Straight Razors

By referring to straight razors from Germany, I am actually not talking about the entire nation but the small town of Solingen. Located in North Rhine-Westphalia, Solingen has been one of the renowned epicenters of superior quality European cutlery for ages. Being German myself, to some people I may sound biased when I say that Solingen produces the ultimate prime quality blades. But I say so because I know they are good, and I am sure you will agree when you experience their quality. Solingen-branded open razors have proved so good that in 1938 this name had to be given legal protection!

Dovo

Established in 1906 by Carl Dorp and Carl-Arthur Voos, Dovo is one of the most famed straight razor brands from Solingen. In the course of its century-plus existence, Dovo has swallowed up a number of other blade brands such as Tennis, Ankerflagge, Fontana, Kronpunkt, and Bismarck, bringing under one roof extensive manufacturing expertise and experience and thus leading to today’s premier quality straight razors. For Dovo products, even the least pricey is guaranteed to serve you perfectly for many years to come provided you provide a bit of proper care and attention. If you want to get a price-friendly straight razor, Dovo Best Quality blades typically retail at between USD110 (85 euros) and USD300 (230 euros) in the lower-end market segment. Dovo blades come in a wide range of handle materials including Spanish oak, ebony, desert ironwood, buffalo horn and ordinary plastic. Although wood-made Dovo handles are usually considered water-resistant, this is not actually completely correct since the razor is not meant to become wet. To most people, actually, the handle material is not all that important — just go for the one that appeals to your eyes most.

Giesen & Forsthoff – AKA Timor

Giesen & Forsthoff was founded in 1920 in Germany’s stronghold of sharp knives, Solingen. In the German shaving context, the brand is known for affordable open razors where the blade does not take a back seat to anyone, but where the handle is a bit more spartan than on many razors from competitor Dovo. Under the trademark “Timor” the Giesen & Forsthoff Company was very popular in Europe and especially in Scandinavia in the period before and after World War II. One of their most popular models is the Timor Straight Razor Plum Wood, Dark Plum.

Böker

Founded in 1869, Böker is another major manufacturer from Solingen, albeit less renowned than Dovo. With their famed focus on employing the very best in expertise and raw materials, Böker’s main objective has always been to maintain their manufacturing standards at the very highest level. Although the demand for open razors had waned gradually in the years following the end of the Second World War, the global razor market has seen some massive revival in recent years. While in the past the Solingen Company was mostly known as a hunting knife maker, today they also boast some of the most sought-after shaving masterpieces in the market. Böker designs and manufactures all their straight razors using some of the best traditional techniques, with up to 150 steps being followed to end up with these great products of shaving craftsmanship. All Böker razors are hand-made, with the most pricey model being made from powdered, metallurgical stainless Damascus material and forming up to 180 layers of the renowned steel type for a pocketful price of USD$$$. The company also makes less expensive alternatives like the Böker King Cutter and the Böker Silver Steel. Note: While silver was actually used to make Boker blades up to around the year 2000, today this is only a marketing term. The silver made the blade’s surface structure more refined, enhancing the Boker razor’s overall cutting experience. Bonus Tip: You may consider paying for your Böker blades in euros rather than dollars; the euro prices seem better. I am reliably informed that Böker is planning to have more offerings later in the year, so keep your ears on the alert. Personally, I prefer those amazing-looking blades adorned with a traditional hollow-ground shape. However, the imitation ivory-made handle scales are perhaps not everyone’s cup of tea.

French Straight Razors

If you ask any true connoisseur about French open razors, more often than not their immediate answer will be Thiers-Issard. While Dovo can be termed as the Mercedes Benz of the razor world and Boker the BMW, Thiers-Issard is the Aston Martin! Founded in 1884 by Pierre Thiers, the legendary blade manufacturer was borne out of the barrel-chested blacksmith’s own talent and expertise in hammering out prime quality metallic items at the forge, eventually becoming a pro razor designer. Initially, Thiers passed on his master knowledge and business to his son, Pierre Thiers Junior, with other members of their family joining the company later on. Although no longer family-owned, Thiers-Issard still jealously guards the high quality and tradition of its originators, with the fact that they still use only Sheffield steel to make their open razors being perhaps the best evidence of this. For those of us who love great works of art, Thiers-Issard’s special edition models are our mainstay, price notwithstanding. But other less pricey alternatives are available, with good maintenance being the only thing standing between a great Thiers-Issard razor and generations of use.

The Shavette/Feather Razor

Many buyers may confuse an exchangeable cartridge-equipped Shavette either from Dovo (that has the patent for the Trademark), Parker or a  Feather razor for a traditional open razor, but this is actually a combination of a disposable razor and a straight razor. While it is equipped with the form of a straight razor, this type carries a disposable blade. Probably you have felt or seen a Shavette razor in a barber’s shop when the barber is cleaning up your neck or another customer’s below the hairline. Compared to straight razors, these types are normally less costly than straight razors, typically USD 25-50 (20-40 euros) lower. Actually, they are great options for beginners who do not have to hone and strop before shaving, or you can use them as an interim step as you plan to invest in a more decent straight shaver as experience is gained.

Straight Razor Buying Guide and Shaving Technique

If men were being honest they would say that shaving is a chore for them. Well, for most of them anyway since there are still those who enjoy it. They seize the opportunity readily and take time to ensure that they are well groomed. Making first impressions is after all seemingly imperative in this life. For those men who enjoy shaving and grooming, they welcome the return of straight razor shaving with open arms. They are of the opinion that this form of traditional shaving should not have disappeared as with so many other things from the past.

Now a little history of the open razors to help you appreciate their return. The use of folding razor dates back to the 17th century in England. For the longest time, about a century, they were the only option men had for grooming and keeping their faces baby-butt smooth. But the 1900s ushered in a new era that saw the creation of safety razors followed closely by that of electric razors. These inventions, needless to say, turned the once ‘worshiped’ straight razors into relics rarely used. Only daring souls still used open bladed razors; either for nostalgic purposes or just because it made them feel a little bit more masculine.

There is one thing that straight razor enthusiasts have in common – they share a love for the fine things in life. They also seem to have a significant amount of patience which allows them to savor moments and experiences. In the recent times, safety razor manufacturers have gone on record to state that they have experienced a massive drop in their sales. On the other hand, straight razor brands state that they have experienced exponential growth. This could only mean one thing – straight razors are back and with a bang.

Straight Razors Penetrating the Market

Straight razors are also referred to as true razors or the cutthroat razor and are, as mentioned, making a big comeback. Whether you are one of those men looking to give these razor types a try or an open blade devotee, it is important to know the considerations to make while choosing the best straight razor and in learning the perfect techniques for straight razor shaving.

Factors to Consider When Buying a Straight Razor

In this piece, we shall have a look at some of the factors we deem important when it comes to choosing a great open blade razor. However, I should point out that some of the most important considerations have nothing to do with the type of blade you choose. On the contrary, it has more to do with your discipline levels and patience.

Straight razor shaving is not for individuals who are always in a hurry or cannot stand spending the time to learn the technique of proper straight shaving. As you prepare to buy your straight razor and transform into a “razor man”, you should be prepared to be deliberately slow to master your blade. This is important because the efficiency of the razor you choose will also depend on your technique. A novice wielding the best straight razor on the market can easily render the razor next to useless.

How Much Should I Pay For a Straight Razor?

A fortune? Honestly, how much should one pay for a simple piece of metal with a handle? Well, you do not have to spend all your savings, but a high-quality product will cost several hundred of dollars. Some of the best in the market have price tags in the range of thousands of dollars. The difference in price is caused by the material used for construction, the precision and craftsmanship that is used to forge the razors as well as in honing them.

As you prepare to make a purchase, remember that these razors are designed to serve you for a lifetime.

How Do I Tell the Quality of a Straight Razor?

Can a new shaver judge the quality of a straight razor? Yes, they can. However, learning how to tell the quality is possibly an even more difficult and challenging process than learning how to use the razor. For instance, an open razor blade can have a medium, soft or hard temper. This greatly affects just how long its edge will remain as well as the ease of sharpening the razor. Hard tempered straight razors tend to keep their edge for longer while the softly tempered razors prove easier to sharpen.

The indentations on the blade also referred to as the grind, are an important characteristic. Why? Well, a complete hollow grind lightens the blade and makes it sharper. But with the increased sharpness comes an increased safety hazard. The opposite is true for a less hollow straight razor making them a better choice for newbies to the art of open razor shaving.

That said, also remember that the needs of different persons are different. Sticking to one straight razor brand with a reputation that precedes itself is the surest way of choosing a great razor.

The Point, Width, Material, and Balance of the Straight Razor

With regards to this consideration, there are two questions that do not need you to be an expert to answer correctly. The first is pertaining the width of the blade. Wide blades are usually considered as harder to manage. They, however, can contain more lather while shaving thus facilitating the shaving process. On the flip side, narrow blades are perfect for reaching tight spots such as behind the ears and under the nose.

The second question is the blade point. Generally, round pointed blades are easier to manage while the square versions though more precise are tougher for a user to handle.

It is, however, a relief to note the ease in determining a well-balanced open razor. This is a good thing since it is a key element which determines how easy it is to handle the blade and shave consistently. The handle on the razor has got to be solid not to mention comfortable. It should feature scales which that help add to the grip.

When you first pick up a blade at the local store for scrutiny, the very first thing you will check, consciously or unconsciously, is the blade material. The cheap and affordable straight razors are made of stainless steel. The stainless blades are said to last longer and cut better compared to the carbon steel blade.

But despite these advantages, most brands still prefer and insist on manufacturing their razors with carbon steel blades since they can produce high-quality blades with this material.

Now that we have that out of the way, assuming you have made a purchase. Where do you start learning the art of shaving with a straight razor?

How to Shave With a Straight Razor

While they might be back and gaining traction in the market, you have to understand that compared to the tools that technology has presented us in the recent past to make shaving more convenient, for effective straight razor shaving, you will need to master the technique.

And truth be told, it is not the easiest thing in the world, especially if you are just getting into it. But this is not to say that it is impossible. To get you started, below are the fundamentals of straight shaving you need to get a hang of.

5 Easy Steps to do When Shaving with a Straight Razor

1. Prepping

Preparing for open razor shaving basically involves two things; sharpening the blade and softening the hair to be shaved. Blade sharpening can be done with a razor stone or a razor strap while softening the hair is done with warm water.

You can either take a warm shower and kill two birds with one stone (I personally prefer this – method) or use a wet towel. If you will be using a replaceable blade you should ensure that it is sharp at all times, replacing often.

2. Lather the Area You Need to Shave

You can use your fingers to apply the gel, soap or shaving cream. However, it can prove to be slightly tricky to get the shaving gel under the hairs. It is recommended that you use one of our recommended shaving brushes for this.

3. The Grip

When it comes to holding the straight razor, everyone has their preference. However, one method that most people seem to agree on and has proved to be effective is resting the first three fingers on the straight razor blade’s back and rest the pinky on the blade tang. The tang is the blades narrow part that is just after the pivot. The thumb should rest on the blade’s side close to the middle.

4. Shaving Stroke

Make even and slow strokes with the blade. This is especially important if you are just starting out and are learning the techniques. You should always make the strokes with the grain of your beard.

5. Sequence

You should always start by shaving your cheeks. Use the free hand to draw the skin upwards to tighten it to avoid nicking yourself. Start from the top and move downwards. Afterwards, you should proceed to shave under the jaw while still tightening the skin in the process. After this spot, shave the upper lip and finally under the chin.

Straight Razors Compared to Other Products

So open razors are also known as cutthroat razors. With such a reputation, why in the world would people prefer these? Why risk getting nicked if you make a mistake or do not have the right technique?

This is a great question. To answer this question, let us make a comparison between the common shaving tool and straight razors. Why do people still hold them in high regard?

A Closer Look

What Are Straight Razors?

They are basically simple shaving tools. They feature a handle and a sharp blade. They have been around for the longest time and are still very effective in shaving.

Traditional open razors feature a metallic blade. These blades are usually made of stainless steel which requires constant sharpening and honing to maintain its sharpness. A single blade can, however, last a lifetime when given proper care.

Price

Getting a quality straight razor is expensive. When you compare the price to that of other shaving equipment, the price might seem over the top, but the great thing is that they are long-term investments.

Learning Curve

There is no way around this. Open razors require you to master the shaving technique and compared to other types of razors, they do feature a steeper learning curve. You cannot be completely effective after your first shaving experience. It is not a simple process and it requires patience. However, if you do stick with it, you are sure to be well rewarded.

Straight Razors Compared to Other Types of Razors

Since you have been doing some research, you most likely are aware that while straight razors share some features, they still are different. Additionally, while they are in many ways one of the simplest shaving tools available, they also are complicated (if that is even possible).

Without a doubt, they are unique and differ with:

Safety Razors

Your beloved grandfather may not have used safety razors, but your dad most likely used it on a daily basis. They have been around for quite some time and they still are popular up to date. The beauty of safety razors is that they come in several different designs including 3-piece, 2-piece and butterfly designs. If you have never used these before, you will go through a learning curve.

Like shavettes, double-edged safety razors also feature removable blades. These should be replaced every week depending on your frequency of shaving.

Also worth noting is that when buying safety razors, you will spend considerably less than you would when buying straight razors. However, in the long run, courtesy of the replacement blades, they end up being quite pricey.

Cartridge Razors

Yes, cartridge razors are practically everywhere. They are available in local supermarkets and convenient stores. Manufacturers run ads for their products on TVs and even at Super Bowl. But is their abundance of supply make them the best option? Well, not quite.

Cartridge razors are cheap and portable. They do not have a learning curve to them. A newbie can start using one of these and not nick or cut themselves. They allow a lot of room for sloppiness. Some of the best units features tilted heads. The tilted head is designed to provide a perfect shaving angle and comfort while shaving.

As above-mentioned, you can purchase a cartridge razor practically anywhere. That said, what are their drawbacks?

Well, they feature low-cost blades. While it is a great thing that they are cheap, they do not provide a close shave. If you are looking for a clean and close shave, you should consider a safety or straight razor.

With cartridge razors, you can purchase the kind that is completely disposable. After use, and when the blade becomes dull, you can toss it out in the bin and purchase another. If you are on the move and in a hurry, they also prove to be one of the best.

But be it as it may, experts recommend spending some bit of cash to get a high-end cartridge razor.

Electric Razors

Truth be told, none of the above-mentioned shaving tool options can beat the convenience of an electric razor. These razors just need to be switched on and they are ready for use. They are available in two different designs; rotary and foil. Some are even great for wet shaving.

Whether an electric razor can provide you with a close shave is a matter that can be debated. But then again, what razor option can provide you with a comparable quick shave?

Below is How We Made our Choice of the Best Straight Razors

It was no easy process compiling this list. Determining the best units came down to research, personal experience and reviews of past users. For example, if a razor has numerous positive reviews and ratings but was not popular or did not have a lot of traffic and sales, we dug into its details to prove its worth on the list.

And there you have it. All you need to learn about the famed “cut throat” razors and shaving techniques.

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