26.11.2014

List of manufacturers

About Wacker: This is a successful company in Solingen, which focuses on the production of traditional straight razors. Wacker does not change the traditions of processing and at the same time guarantees the best quality, which leaves no doubt that each razor is a masterpiece that was created with awe and love. Production is carried out by qualified workers with more than 50 years of professional experience. All handle materials are made of wood or buffalo horn, also processed by hand.

Boker is a German manufacturer of knives and straight razors from Solingen, Germany.

About Boker: Demanding craftsmanship is one of the traditions in the manufacture of Boker straight razors. This company is one of the first to start producing truly perfect razors. The Boker factory was founded in 1829, at first the factory was engaged in the manufacture of sabers. Further, in connection with the development of the company, in 1869 a factory was opened in the city of Solingen, at that time this city was famous for the fact that the German industry of cutting tools grew by leaps and bounds. The high-quality straight razors were manufactured in Solingen at the Boker factory. Even the first razors of this company were immediately in the spotlight. The razors are made from high quality materials and are made entirely by hand. This strategy soon paid off and Boker became a well-known supplier of straight razors. After the Second World War, the production of straight razors ended internationally, due to the destruction of the plant from the bombing of the Soviet troops. Today, the original Boker catalog from 1906 is the oldest document still in use for straight razors. More than 100 years later, a new range of handmade straight razors in Solingen revives an old tradition.

- Dovo Solingen is a famous factory from the city of Solingen. More than 100 years engaged in the production of straight razors and manicure accessories.

1952 - Trademark "Tennis" "
1957 - Brand "Bismarck"
1957 - Branded "Ankerflagge" razors from the company "Carl Rader"
1968 - Company "Erich Hartkopf". The scissors of this company have been paired with "Teufelskerle" brand pocket knives
1969 - Trademark "Kronpunkt" razors from the company "Heups"
1970 - Trademark "Fontana" "
1973 - "Heups" and "Hermes" company (pedicure tongs and manicure tools)
1996 - Company "Merkur"

- Merkur Solingen classic razors and razors.

About Merkur:
DOVO Solingen, Merkur Solingen
The German company DOVO Solingen is celebrating its 100th anniversary in 2006 with its subsidiary Merkur Solingen. Its products include a collection of professional hairdressing scissors, nail scissors, razors and nail sets. With its success with scissors and straight razors, the company has established a sister company, Merkur Solingen, to produce shaving needs that are successful all over the world. All DOVO and Merkur Solingen products are original, made in Solingen, Germany.

- Col. Conk is an American manufacturer of soap and shaving products.

Colonel Ichabod Conk was a dapper young man with fire in his eyes and a velvety voice. His childhood is hidden in history, but what is known of his exploits is a legend. In 1866, shortly after civil war the colonel became impoverished, so he went to work in Albuquerque, New Mexico. After he lived there for a while, Colonel Conk started dating a woman who owns several barbershops. She shaved male faces daily. Colonel Conk married her, after which, he too became proficient in shaving, he helped his wife with her clients. Using his entrepreneurial spirit, he came up with a great idea: "Why can't I package the products we use every day and sell them across the west?" Thus, he became one of the first traveling salesmen to cross the border of the old West, providing an opportunity for people abroad to obtain shaving products and toiletries for self-use. . Colonel Conk became a wealthy man for his time and age, and continued the business until his death in 1898. At the time he died, his business simply ceased to exist.

Some time later, investors discovered his legacy and decided to continue the legend, but in today's market. Over the years, the product line has expanded. Today, the company produces - high-quality straight razors, safety razors, shaving cups and shaving brushes, shaving kits, aftershave lotions and balms, flasks and Gift Baskets. Frank E. Shofner, the company's president since 1988, is now deceased, but his wife Marilyn Shofner continues as the current chief operating officer.

It is a leading company in the Korean market. The company is engaged in the production of razors, razor blades, kitchen knives and stationery knives. They have been manufacturing and exporting high quality products for 55 years. The company exports a wide range of products to approximately 100 countries worldwide. They never stop developing new technologies for the convenience of customers' lives and are constantly striving to develop new, environmentally sustainable products. As such, they aim to become one of the top global leaders in the shaving business in 2015.

All products of the company are made in the best traditions of quality from Germany. Comfortable and practical accessories, natural cosmetic, the best remedies for shaving, everything that is emphasized in the production of this company.
Among the company's products you can find almost everything. This shaving soap in the form of flakes, for more foam, and beautiful shaving brushes with a handle made of horn and silver badger bristles, and exquisite combs from the horn of African cattle.

- Hans Baier is a manufacturer of quality German shaving brushes.
A company that has been producing high-quality shaving accessories for over a hundred years. Especially, Hans Baier is famous for the production of quality German shaving brushes from various materials, with different type of pile. The factory where the company manufactures its products has managed throughout its history to remain a family business.


- Hans Kniebes is a manufacturer of manicure sets and leather goods.

Founded in 1926 by Hans Kniebes, Kniebes quickly established itself as a respected supplier of superior manicure supplies. Much has changed since those years. Although nail care tools are still the main product range of the company, and since the 60s manicure sets have been complemented by a wide variety of accessories. Today, in addition to a manicure set, you can purchase leather accessories such as purses, makeup bags, handbags, and more.

- Intesa is a company that produces cosmetic products specifically for men, multifunctional, satisfying several needs. The company's products have a wide range, each man will be able to choose something for himself.
- South Korean company, manufacturer of high quality shaving machines and blades. Unrivaled precision is what made Schick famous. Their blades are made of high quality materials, extremely thin and sharp, durable.

- Feather Japanese company produces the sharpest blades in the world. It is also a manufacturer of shaving machines.
Blades "New Hi-Stainless" became a real breakthrough, called by the whole world as the sharpest and highest quality, earned the company a good reputation for centuries. In the range of Feather, in addition to blades, there are also classic machines, which are also quite popular. Japanese precision is the main criterion for manufactured products.

- Malteser is a manufacturer of high quality cutlery, manicure sets and straight razors.
Malteser, in its production, focuses on the quality of its products. Most of the products are made by hand, classical production methods are used, painstaking, requiring special skills. Only materials of the highest quality are used.
Gillete is a world famous company with a century of history. At the moment it is undoubtedly the largest company producing razors and replacement blades.
The company owns a patent for modern machines of the Mach3 and Fusion types. He is the pioneer of disposable razors with non-replaceable blades.
- HJM is a German company specializing in the production of high quality shaving brushes. A subsidiary of MUEHLE, HJM products offer an incredible value for money.
All products are manufactured at the MUEHLE factory in Germany. Meets the specified quality standard.
- Mennen manufacturer of a wide range of shaving products: creams, lotions, balms. Soft and gentle, Mennen is enriched with marine minerals, which are well known for their restorative properties. In France, the Mennen brand is owned by Loreal's men's grooming line. The most famous product, Mennen Speed ​​Stick, has long been the market leader in antiperspirants and deodorants.
- Constant Delight manufacturer of professional hair care cosmetics. Created in 2006, focused mainly on the Russian market. Produced in Northern Italy, the most modern technologies in production are used. Italian quality, a large assortment, reasonable prices - all this is a constant thing to do. The company's products are provided in our store at the lowest prices.
- BARBARO Handmade cosmetics made from natural ingredients. A small firm focusing on beard care products, shampoos and soaps, and shaving products. All products are produced in the city of St. Petersburg. It has a sharp, unusual aroma.

- Cliven manufacturer of high quality cosmetics. An Italian company known throughout the world. The company's products have established themselves as soft, highly effective, nourishing. Cliven has appeared in Russia since 1993, and has existed since 1958. All this time the company has been continuously improving its products. The company's products are made exclusively from harmless raw materials.
- Derby is a company that produces high quality shaving products and safety razor blades at affordable prices. The production is located in Turkey. The company's products have gained worldwide fame due to the excellent price and good quality.
- Feature of cosmetics DR Harris in its environmental friendliness, authenticity and naturalness. Many cosmetics still retain the original recipe. New products are created according to the quality standards laid down by the founders of the company. Do not forget that they - Daniel Rotherly and Henry Harris, being first of all gentlemen, created their own funds for the English aristocracy, and the quality of the products created was the subject of their honor. For more than two hundred years, the company has maintained its impeccable reputation and cares about the environmental friendliness and naturalness of each product.
Bolin Webb is a British men's brand that creates state-of-the-art razors and shaving accessories. Bolin Webb products tend to be different from all other products on the market. It has a recognizable design that cannot be confused with anything. The main idea that the manufacturer puts into their machines is innovation. Machine tools from the company have an extremely unusual, "non-classical" appearance and special design, made of modern, high quality materials.

The British family brand The Bearded Man Company makes beard and mustache products. The motto of the company: "Big beard - big responsibility." The manufacturer treats its products with soul, has an idea of ​​what care products should be and brings it to life.

Some men have a strong interest in dangerous shaves. Sounds powerful, sometimes brutal. It is often a great idea to give such a device as a gift. But it is one thing to get it, and quite another to learn how to use it correctly. Now the tool is introduced in professional hairdressing salons.

If you want to acquire a blade “fear”, mentally prepare yourself for some time to train well so that shaving skills are fixed. The main thing is not to rush, to do everything slowly, calmly. After all, if you rush, a cut can cause consequences. We will help you approach the issue with all responsibility. Usefulness and fun guaranteed!

Some prefer to buy the first "fear" cheaper. Like, if you don't like it, I'll throw it away. This approach is fundamentally wrong, because it is precisely the initial acquaintance with her that must be approached responsibly. Popular manufacturers of such devices are England, Spain, Sweden, Germany. They are also produced by the French, Americans, Chinese. But what about the Russians?

Straight razor Russian production today it is absent on the domestic market, as it is replaced by modern imported, reusable razors with replaceable blades. However, Russian products can be found in private shops or online stores from masters, because someone likes to collect them, and someone else sells them or gives them as a souvenir.

We do not have large companies for its manufacture. Although there is a "Workshop of Damascus" that makes such devices from Damascus steel. On our shelves you will rarely find a manufacturer in Russia, because such a product was massively in demand during the Soviet era.

An example of such a Soviet product is steez sport, which is considered practically the best due to its high world-class rating. Serial production of devices took place at the ZTV (Plant Trud Vacha), which began in 1830. The end of the 19th century was marked for the plant by the Grand Gold Medal of the World Exhibition in Paris, and in 1891 it was exhibited at the World Exhibition in New York. It says a lot, don't you agree?

For reference! The technique of dangerous shaving excludes the use of gels and creams. These products will not prepare the skin properly. It is better to use soap or a special mug.

Now only a few companies are fully working, because straight razor manufacturers always compete with each other for quality and originality.

Representatives of the current industry:

1. Dovo. German company, roots from the distant 1906. Operates successfully today. The factory is located near Solingen.
2. Hart Steel American production. Relatively young structure, founded in 2009. The range is not as huge compared to competitors, but positive consumer reviews regularly attract new customers.
3. "Thiers-Issard". French manufacturer. Works since 1884. Thiers-Issard is a fairly strong competitor, as it uses only high quality materials, handmade, a unique hardening process, having large quantity models for every taste and price.
4. Muehle. The brand is from Germany. Fans of the classic wet shave must have recognized him immediately. The quality is of a good level, although this is more of a budget option. The inscription "Solingen" is carved on the handle of the device. It is worth noting that factory sharpening will not allow you to shave immediately, because a specialist will still have to work with muehle.
5. Artrazor. It is an open creative association, a club of free masters, attracting new professionals. The project was founded by master Frans and continues its activities together with the guys from the popular site britva.ru. The creative impulse, the desire to create their own unique products united these men to work hard. Today, artrazor is in demand, also manufacturing straightening belts and accessories.

The most popular straight razors

There are a number of models that enjoy special trust and disposition among men. We read about the most famous below.

Wacker Classic

German manufacturer guaranteeing high quality. Exclusive Wacker market item. The material of the point is pure carbon steel incorporating a fine Silver Streel microstructure. The blade is maximally concave, which gives smoothness to your skin after shaving. The blade is 5/8” wide. The handle is made of buffalo horn, each separately created model has its own unique pattern, contrast.

It is handmade, the place of creation is the city of Solingen. Delivered with a certificate of authenticity and the personal signature of G. Wacker, who founded this firm.

Important! Keep tools, especially those made of carbon steel, out of the bathroom. Due to increased moisture, it may begin to rust.

Wacker Borodino

The model was released on the date of the 200-year-old domestic battle between the Russians and the French in 1812. The name of the model comes from the great battle of Borodino. The canvas contains portraits of Napoleon, Kutuzov. Handmade model, handle - natural buffalo horn. The natural properties of such a material allow it to independently change color, structure.

Boker Arbolito H.Boker & CO

A branded product manufactured in the Spanish factory "Arbolito". Boker is valued for its high quality, and there are enough reasons for this: a moisture-resistant synthetic handle, decorated with inlays; ultra thin 5/8” high carbon steel blade; head made in the best Spanish traditions. The production is manual, including about 120 different operations.

Measures were repeatedly taken to simplify and mechanize the sharpening process. One of the solutions was to create a design with a blade that detaches or a machine that can sharpen the point. Antique shops and some collectors have similar 19th century "fears" in good condition.

Wacker Titanium

It is new on the market. The blade is 6/8” wide. The handle is also made of horn. The head is classical, the concavity is full. Perfectly smooth cover after use is guaranteed. What is titanium plating? The advantages of this material:

1. Environmental friendliness.
2. Resistant surface against mechanical damage.
3. High corrosion resistance compared to other metals.
4. Good wear resistance, long service life.

Dovo Best Quality Black

A familiar German manufacturer offers a budget, but high-quality option. Even a beginner can handle it. 5/8” wide point with 1 to 2 concavity for a comfortable shave. The high-carbon blade is elastic, easy to sharpen and straighten. Celluloid handle, water resistant, comfortable to grip. Be sure to purchase leather belt for sharpening, because when you shave, a thin edge forms small defects. Straighten the blade before every shave.

How are straight razors made?

First, take a steel cylindrical billet. it original view frames. How the straight razor is made in stages, we read below:

1. A steel billet is heated in a furnace to high temperatures. It turns like plasticine. But the pliability of steel "plasticine" is not so high.
2. The heated cylinder is then formed into a flat shape. Cut off excess edges.
3. The mold is placed in graphite powder with the addition of molten lead. The latter increases the steel strength.
4. Filling with oil. Sprinkling with sawdust for better absorption.
5. Point sharpening. It is covered with special materials that reinforce it. Then electrolysis.
6. Placement of the blade on the handle.
7. Final sharpening step by step. The latter provides a leather belt instead of a grinder to straighten the blade for maximum enjoyment.

Did you know so much about straight razors before?

YesNot

most expensive razor

Parisian hygiene products supplier Hommage has unveiled a stunning new product made from a very precious metal - platinum. Such a pleasure costs $ 30,000. This is the most expensive "fear" in the world, with high hardness, plasticity, inertness. In addition to hygiene products, the company supplies skin care items, as well as spa treatments. high class for male.

The hommage product has the colossal advantage of being an original handmade piece of 128 layers of Damascus steel. The case is also platinum, which protects the metal from oxidation. The sale of the device is carried out in a package that is made of Tanzan, a rather rare tree.

Advice! Initially, there will be unsuccessful attempts. To master good technique, try to shave regularly. Thus, you will gradually master and feel the whole process.

The sharpest razor

A well-sharpened “fear” blade surpasses machine sharpness. It is also quite long, and a man cleanses a large area of ​​\u200b\u200bthe appearance in one movement. Due to the thin point, each part of the face is shaved no more than 2 times. If your bristles are soft, one is enough.

The sharpest "fears" give a positive effect in a minimum amount of time, because the hairs are completely shaved off, and not pulled out, as often happens. Then the irritation of the cover is reduced. Open sources (discovery) speak of the fact that the edge of a corner of a well-sharpened dangerous blade is the second sharpest object in the world (the first is an atomic laser).

Expert opinion

Alexey Strijnikov

Barber, expert in men's haircuts

“When cut, use hemostatic powder. You can buy it at a hairdressing store.”

smooth macho

After you are a man, you will find a branded product that suits you, this is the name that your relatives, colleagues, loved one will mark you with. If you like to shave, always looking smooth on your face, use the tips in this publication, remembering to apply them. We wish you to develop and be happy with your successful image!

The choice of shaving method is largely a matter of taste. Having studied various thematic forums, you can be sure that each of the available methods has its adherents: some prefer razors with interchangeable cartridges, others prefer classic T-shaped machines. You can even meet lovers of straight razors (although it is much more common to find those who prefer shavettes to them - straight razors with replaceable blades).

A shavette razor using halves of regular replacement blades

First of all, electric shavers are of interest to us - they have incorporated many achievements modern technologies and improving from year to year (unlike all of the above devices, among which it is very rare to find a fundamentally new technical solution worthy of a new patent). How to choose an electric razor and what parameters should you pay attention to first of all? Let's figure it out.

Rotary and foil shavers

One of the key parameters by which electric shavers can be divided is two fundamentally different systems, called mesh and rotary. Their meaning and difference is intuitive from the name.

Modern rotary shavers are equipped with several heads, each of which is a disk with holes, under which there are rotating blades. The general consensus is that the main benefit of rotary shavers is that they work well on short stubble, while the main downside is that it often irritates the skin (especially if it is sensitive).

In a mesh razor, the blades do not rotate, but vibrate from side to side, and they are closed not by disks, but by a grid. On average, these razors are better suited for more long hair(including they are better suited for trimming mustaches and beards), and are not so irritating to sensitive skin.

However, as is often the case, the “general opinion” is largely a compilation of myths from many years ago and some features of devices from quite specific manufacturers (and even a very specific price category). The truth is that at the moment, top rotary shavers have learned to be quite careful even with sensitive skin, and top mesh ones shave stubble no worse than rotary ones. So the point is rather not in the technology used, but in the quality of the manufacture of nodes and the sophistication of design ideas.

However, one significant difference between foil and rotary razors remains and will not go anywhere further - because it is directly related to the design of the shaving heads. This difference is in the movement of the razor (and, accordingly, the hand) during shaving. They shave with a foil razor in the same way as with a razor - with longitudinal movements against the direction of bristle growth.

For shaving with a rotary razor, such a scheme is absolutely non-optimal; circular movements of the razor head over the skin are used there, and, depending on the direction of bristle growth, the direction of “rotation” of the head should also be changed.

Thus, it can be said that it will be somewhat easier for a person who used to shave with a machine to master a mesh razor.

Shaving heads and their mobility

A standard rotary razor has 2-4 (three on average) rotating discs located at different angles to the surface of the face. At the moment of contact, the skin is pressed through, which ensures the best contact and penetration of the hairs into the razor - to the knives. The heads themselves can be either fixed or movable (floating). Thanks to the mobility, the best fit is achieved, and therefore the quality of the shave is improved. Predictably, floating-head razors will be more expensive than their fixed-head counterparts.

Often, manufacturers provide a movable mount for the entire shaving unit, on which the heads are located. Due to this, the block can deviate in different directions and planes. It is believed that this solution provides a more accurate repetition of the contours of the face and a more comfortable shave in general.

Dry and wet shaving

The choice of a wet or dry razor is not only a matter of personal preference, but also of the environment in which the razor is intended to be used. For example, wet shaving can be difficult during business trips or vacations.

Wet shaving is traditionally attracted by the fact that the skin is steamed and further cleaned in the process. In addition, during wet shaving, foams and gels are used to provide additional care. Sometimes people who can’t shave dry with electric shavers due to constant skin irritation, wet shaving with gel endure quite calmly.

Wet razors tend to be easier to maintain: in most cases, removing residual hair is as simple as opening the shaver head and rinsing it under running water.

As for dry shaving, this method will not only be easier, but also more economical (since it does not require the purchase of foam and gels). Care for dry razors consists in cleaning its elements with a special brush.

Obviously, any razor that supports wet shaves also supports dry shaves, so the choice is essentially very simple: do you want to shave wet or not.

Cordless and corded shavers

Electric shavers can be powered from a conventional electrical network or from a battery. At the same time, some cordless shavers allow operation from the network, while others use the network solely to recharge the battery (but will not allow you to instantly shave with a discharged razor, even if an outlet is at hand).

It is hardly necessary to explain in detail the pros and cons of each of these options: they are pretty obvious. But to mention the various nuances will not be superfluous. So, for example, it will not be superfluous to pay attention to the type of battery. Nickel-cadmium (NiCD) or nickel-metal hydride (NiMH) clearly indicate that the razor belongs to the lower price category - with all the ensuing consequences. Lithium-ion (Li-Ion), on the contrary, indicates that at least the manufacturer did not save on the battery. If the battery type is not mentioned anywhere at all, as a rule, one should prepare for the worst - that is, for the first option.

When choosing a rechargeable razor, it will not be superfluous to take an interest in such a parameter as battery capacity and calculate how many uses it will last. It’s good if the manufacturer indicates in the documentation the time for a full charge, and also how many minutes after the start of charging a completely discharged battery, the razor will be ready for full use: the situation when the battery is low and you need to shave urgently, alas, is not so rare. High-quality razors will allow you to shave within 5 minutes after the start of charging the battery.

Nozzles and accessories

The configuration and the availability of additional options determine what capabilities your razor will have and how comfortable it will be to use. Let's list the most popular features that modern razors offer.

Rotary Shaver Accessory Set

Many razors have a retractable blade or trimmer attachment that allows you to adjust the length of your shave. With a trimmer, you can trim mustaches and beards, as well as shape eyebrows. Often, the trimmer is implemented in the form of a set of plastic combs with teeth. different lengths, regulating the distance between the base of the hairs and the cutting knives. Such an accessory is the cheapest, but regularly performs its task.

Pop-up trimmer head

For those who often shave away from home, the hair collection compartment can be useful, which eliminates the need to clean the sink or tub after each shave: most of the cut hairs will fall into a special container that only needs to be emptied from time to time.

Most modern shavers can be equipped with automatic skin moisturizing reservoirs as well as an automatic cleaning reservoir. The first of them, as you might guess, is filled with a moisturizing solution or gel, which is automatically applied to the skin directly during shaving. The second one is filled with a disinfectant solution, which is used for automatic care of the razor. After shaving, such a device is automatically cleaned, disinfected and dried. It is quite natural that such razors will be more expensive than simpler counterparts, and will also require additional costs for the purchase of special liquids. In addition, razors with an automatic cleaning function, as a rule, are charged only from a special “base”, which you will have to carry with you if you need to use the razor while traveling.

Panasonic Shaver Dock

The presence of a special travel case will simplify both storage and transportation of the razor: such an accessory will protect the device from bumps and dirt and is highly recommended for those who travel often and a lot.

Control and indication of various modes

Modern shavers may have several different modes of operation or determine the most suitable mode automatically. So, for example, the sensor for determining the density of the bristles regulates the speed of rotation of the heads, choosing the desired shaving mode depending on the area of ​​the face being treated, and the sensor that measures the force of rotation of the knives will remind you that the time has come to clean the razor from the hairs clogged in the knives.

"Advanced" razors can be equipped with LED sensors or even miniature displays that display information about the state of charge, the need for cleaning, etc. Such models are expensive, but they are the best suited for geeks and lovers of the latest technology.

Ease of maintenance

Although many shavers only clean after a few uses, we would recommend cleaning the shaving head as often as possible, not only will this improve your shave, but it will also reduce blade wear. And therefore, before buying a razor, it will not be superfluous to make sure that the process of caring for the device does not cause any difficulties: hair residues can be easily removed with a special brush, and if the razor is marked “washable”, then dirt and hair residues can be removed, by placing the shaving head under running water.

A standard brush can be found with any razor.

Special docking stations with a disinfectant solution will provide automatic care of the razor: all that is required from the user is to fill in the disinfectant solution in time.

Operating cost

Most razors imply the need to replace the shaving heads after a certain time (you can usually read about this in the instructions for the device). In a foil razor, the shaving head lasts an average of about 1.5 years, in a rotary razor - up to 2 years. And therefore, it will not be superfluous to inquire about the cost of replacing heads before making a purchase (and not after it). Shavers with automatic skin moistening or automatic cleaning functions will require the purchase of special liquids, which will also affect the cost of daily operation.

Quite exotic

Braun releases a model of a mesh electric shaver with a shaving head (Peltier). In theory, due to this, it should irritate the skin even less, but the sensations of our experts were more of a “funny” than “delightful” series. And Braun's top mesh models still irritate the skin less - but they also cost more :)

Philips, traditionally using rotary technology, uses wireless charging in its latest top-of-the-line electric shavers. It looks stylish and "expensive-rich", but in reality it does not give any special advantages. Except that the waterproof case can now be made even more reliable, because nothing needs to be connected to it.

conclusions

When choosing between a rotary razor or a foil razor, remember that a rotary razor will likely work better on short stubble, but can cause skin irritation. Such razors may not be suitable for owners sensitive skin and those who are afraid of cuts. Foil shaver better fit for more delicate skin and longer hair (including trimming beards and mustaches).

• The closeness of a shave with foil razors can vary from model to model, but it is almost always necessary to keep in mind that the hairs being shaved will grind and stick to the skin of the face. But the mesh razor will almost always be more compact and easy to use.
• If the choice is on a rotary razor, you need to ask about the number of shaving heads (in most cases, three will be enough), and also (if there is no goal to save money) make sure that these heads are movable (that is, they can adapt to the contours of the face during shaving time).
• Depending on where and how you intend to use the razor, you need to decide on the preferred type of shave: wet shaving is better for home conditions, while dry shaving (without the use of gels) is available almost anywhere.
• When choosing between a corded shaver and a cordless shaver, you also need to consider whether the shaver will be used on trips or business trips. When choosing a cordless shaver, be sure to ask about the capacity of the battery and its type (different batteries have their own characteristics).
• The presence of special nozzles and accessories will not only expand the capabilities of the razor, but can also significantly simplify the process of caring for the device. True, each of the additional options will affect the price of the device.
• The presence of special indicators or a display will allow you to easily determine the status of the battery charge and get other relevant information about the current state of the device.
• The more often a razor is used, the more important it is to maintain ease of use: if possible, it is better to purchase a razor that can be washed under running water or even a razor with an automatic cleaning function.
• When choosing a razor by price, it will not be superfluous to find out the cost of replacing shaving heads, as well as consumables (if any are needed for the selected model).

At one time, Gillette and its like lobbied the market with their products so much that real men's shaving with a dangerous razor went into the background. True fans were devoted to the tradition of men's shaving.

According to google statistics, starting from May 2006, shaving with straight razors began to revive and gain momentum to this day. We, as true fans of brutal things, only support such popularity and for this we decided to highlight the question of how to choose a straight razor? We hope our instructions will help men and their ladies in this difficult task, let's go!

When choosing a straight razor for the first time, you may encounter many varieties of products. What should I pay attention to or what brand of straight razor should I prefer? What razor is suitable if you have never used it?

Web form

What to pay attention to? Well, of course, when choosing a straight razor, the first thing you need to do is figure out its shape and blade width. Since the comfort and maximum convenience in the process of shaving will depend on its shape.

Remember: a razor with a concave blade inward is a clear sign of improper sharpening.

Quality razors come in the following forms:

• Straight lines, without bends and extensions.
• Curved, with a razor blade resembling a crescent moon. Not to be confused with concave.
• Wedge-shaped, with the head of the blade wider towards its base.
• With replaceable blades. Basically, such razors are purchased by barbershops. This is explained simple rule: one blade - one client, because this is a fairly hygienic option, and significant time savings (no need to straighten the razor).
• With a narrowed head resembling a scalpel or knife. It is worth noting that in terms of properties, such razors are no less effective than razors of other shapes, but are of less value.

For beginner the best option will be the last option. Tapered head prevents accidental cuts. A razor with a straight blade is considered not a good option, but if you have never held a straight razor, it is advised to blunt the head - slightly round the corner of it.

Blade width

Right: Dovo Encina razor with 6/8" blade width

The blade width of a straight razor can be different. The most suitable option for a beginner is 5/8 or 6/8 inches. Straight razors of this width are used by most men. This is due to the fact that: a narrow or very wide version of the blade for the first time shaving is not very convenient to use. It is quite difficult to immediately find the desired angle of inclination, using caution with a narrow blade. A wide razor will be heavy at first and quite uncomfortable for a beginner, as weight and dimensions play a role. After all, if the shaving process is delayed, and you have a heavy razor in your hands, then you will undoubtedly begin to experience inconvenience.

Over time, the hand is stuffed and you can experiment already on other forms by choosing a narrower or wider straight razor.

Blade concavity

As a rule, the concavity of the blade is ½ or 1/1 full (wedge shape in the diagram). Despite the high cost of straight razors with a full concavity blade, this is the best choice for a beginner. This blade shape is the most optimal combination of hardness and flexibility.

blade head

The preferred option for a beginner would be a round head razor. Such a dangerous razor is more difficult to cut yourself. The most dangerous option is considered a straight razor with a square head.

Blade steel

The main material of a straight razor blade is stainless, Damascus or carbon steel.

Damascus steel blade is considered the most expensive and very high quality material that combines flexibility and strength. The blade made of this steel is easy to sharpen without wearing out for a long time later.

Stainless is a harder and less pliable blade. But after sharpening, such a razor retains its sharp properties longer, but due to the hardness of the material it is less flexible and comfortable to shave. This will require some ingenuity.

Carbon steel is the most popular in manufacturing and is the most popular straight razor choice. This version of the blade has flexible properties, it is easy to edit. Despite the preference and prevalence, blades of this type have disadvantages. They are displayed as brittleness and susceptibility to corrosion.

When choosing a straight razor for the first time, carbon steel should be preferred. But it is worth considering that each of the manufacturers has its own composition and quality of performance can vary both for better and for worse.

If funds allow or you need an exclusive gift, choosing a straight razor made of Damascus steel will be the best option of all. By the way, some models will be very exclusive. These include razors made of Damascus steel by Boker, but their price is quite high and will be about $ 1,000 per model.

Handle material

It all depends on taste and preferences. The cheapest ones are made of plastic, the most expensive ones will be made of precious woods, animal bones, etc. The most unusual that was presented in our online store, with material from mammoth tusk (Dovo Mammut).

Manufacturers

The choice is wide, but truly high-quality razors are made by Dovo or Boker brands (Germany), as well as Thiers-Issard (France).

A small video of the production of a straight straight razor, it's interesting, worth a look!

Be prepared for the fact that it is unlikely that you will get a perfect shave the first time, most likely, at first you will not succeed at all, and only by training will you be able to achieve the necessary skill. You may even realize that this is not your thing at all. Don't be discouraged, other ways to get rid of stubble are just as courageous. And yet, it is worth trying this alluring tool in action. So how do you choose a straight razor?

When shopping for your first straight razor, here are some tips to try:

• Get a razor with a round head - a blade of this shape, firstly, is the most convenient. With it, you can easily shave in hard-to-reach places. Secondly, by using a round blade, you reduce the risk of cutting yourself. After all, for example, the square shape of the blade has sharp edges that can cause a cut.
• If, nevertheless, your choice fell on a razor with a square blade, it is better to dull the edges with a rough stone. For the safety of both you and the razor itself, it is better to use the services of a razor specialist.
• Buy a wider razor. A blade that is too narrow will make it uncomfortable for you to adhere to the angle of contact with the skin.
• It is best to buy a carbon steel straight razor for the first time.
• Do not buy products with drawings and gilding - this is impractical. Over time, all this will be erased and the razor will lose its presentation. Only possible variant decorations - engraving or branding.
• Expensive price is not always a guarantee best quality. Very often you will simply overpay for a well-known brand, fashion name manufacturer. It is better to read reviews on the Internet, consult with friends who have already chosen a “dangerous” shave.

How not to buy a fake

The market is littered with Chinese counterfeits of almost any existing product. Straight razors are no exception. Outwardly, it is not so easy to recognize a low-quality product. You will notice the catch already when using it. Razors will instantly become dull and even crumble.

The main features of a pseudo-razor:

• A high-quality razor has a brand, while a fake has a logo applied with paint, which, from contact with hands, will quickly be erased by water.
• There is not even a drawing or it is there, but applied crookedly.
• There is a “supply” on the edge of the blade, but not on the back. (“The lead” is the plane from the sharpening of the razor.)

It's important to know

Having bought even a high-quality good straight razor, if you don’t know how to sharpen it, you simply won’t be able to immediately try out the tool, because even in the most expensive stores they sell razors not sharpened. The manufacturer, of course, sharpens the blade, but not to the point where the razor will really work wonders. If you try to shave, you will simply tear the stubble and scratch the skin.

Razor Care

In order for the shaving accessory to serve you faithfully for a long time, you need a careful attitude and careful care for it. After each use, be sure to rinse the razor with water and dry it. Store it in a dry, ventilated area. Periodically lubricate with paraffin oil. Don't drop your razor. The slightest chip or other defect will affect the quality of shaving. Instead of an even, smooth shave, you'll end up with torn hair and scratched skin. Never use the tool for other purposes, such as cutting animals or cutting paper, etc. This will lead to nicks.