May 17, 2010

The Straight Razor is Dead?

Rasur des Tages, 29.11.2008.jpg Even as I am transitioning to using a straight razor, some are saying the classic is on its way out, with the straight razor killer being the newest multi-blade razors. From TheStar.com:

"The straight razor, that timeless icon of quality men's grooming, is officially a relic.

The latest generations of drugstore razors, born from millions of dollars in research and development, put grandpa's old single blade to ignominious shame.

"I can't compete with this," says straight razor guru Rick Ricci as he holds up the new Schick HYDRO, a scruff chopper developed over a seven-year period by engineers in Germany and the United States."

"We're world renowned barbers and, I'm telling you, the single blade can't do as well as this."

Funny, eh? Isn't that what people were saying about the very first multi-blade razors? Based on my conversations with those who have chosen to use straight razors or safety razors instead of the high tech multi-blade razors, I don't think they'll be convinced to switch back anytime soon.

What do you think?

Image: Dharion at Flickr

Recent Comments

My first shave was with grandpas straight razor, shaving was an event. Moved on to the flat double edge blade in the brass razor handle and now use triple blade dispo quite often. I do keep a good straight razor though having found that while traveling in the military and hunting trips and other outdoor events finding blades for a dispo is not always easy. The straight razor is old reliable and always ready to go. There is a feeling you get that no other razor provides.....it will remain timeless to a lot of men.

Posted by: TW Lewis at May 10, 2011 6:16 PM

This is just more bunk from the disposable manufacturers. My guess is that it's actually directed at anyone contemplating using a straight. The goal is to dissuade them from ever trying because if they ever get the hang of it they'll realize what suckers they've been all these years buying the cartridges/disposables.

Yes, Schick makes a smooth edge, smoother than Gillette's even. It doesn't matter though because all blades, including a straight, can be keened equal and made as smooth as possible, especially with modern industrial polishing compounds (abrasive strop pastes).

I think the more relevant question for these folks to ponder is: How much longer are people going to put up with their ridiculous products with umpteen blades before they come to their senses (and grip their wallet) and wonder why the he!! they're paying a small mortgage every year just to shave - and they don't even like shaving!

Posted by: Chris at January 6, 2011 12:26 AM

Honestly, I have never noticed a lick of difference in shave quality between a Straight Razor, Disposable, and multi blade. Maybe some people do, I don't. I'll stick with the straight razor.

Posted by: Robertek at May 25, 2010 10:48 AM