A straight razor is a razor with a blade that can fold into its handle. They are also called open razors and cut-throat razors.
Although straight razors were once the principal method of manual shaving, they have been largely overshadowed by the safety razor, incorporating a disposable blade. Electric razors of various types have also been an available alternative especially since the 1950s. Despite that, straight razors still hold a market share, and forums and outlets provide products, directions, and advice to straight razor users. Straight razor manufacturers still exist in Europe, Asia (especially Japan), and North America. Antique straight razors are also actively traded.
Straight razors require considerable skill to hone and strop, and require more care during shaving. These methods were once a major portion of the curriculum in barber colleges.
Read more about Straight Razor: History, Parts Description, Construction, Handle Materials and Their Properties, Blade Geometry and Characteristics, Stability and Balance, Uses, Usage, Modern Use
Famous quotes containing the words straight and/or razor:
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—Amaru (c. seventh century A.D.)
“Experience has taught me, when I am shaving of a morning, to keep watch over my thoughts, because, if a line of poetry strays into my memory, my skin bristles so that the razor ceases to act.”
—A.E. (Alfred Edward)