The Best Straight Razors for Men
Gentlemen, the ritual of facial grooming is an age-old tradition that should never be rushed. Though today's shaving market sees all manner of electric gizmos and combined blades to do the work for you, if you want to feel unparalleled control and satisfaction every morning, use a straight razor. Though these ultra-sharp beasties take a little experience to master, once you've got the hang of it, you're unlikely to accept any imitation.
What to Look For
Selecting the ideal blade for your needs is ultimately a matter of taste. However, if you’re new to the game, there are a couple of key features to consider that can shape your shaving experience. There are several blade styles available, with fixed blades requiring a little more maintenance than replaceable models. Experienced hands might have a weight preference, but a heavier style can be easier for some to wield. With all this in mind and more, our favorite straight razor comes from Utopia Care. Boasting a resilient stainless steel construction as well as 100 blade replacements, it’s built to stand the test of time. If you want to try your hand at a fixed-blade razor, you can’t go wrong with the handmade blade from Kingsland Shaving Co. It’s time to cut to the chase with the rest of our top straight razors.
Utopia Care Professional Barber Straight Edge Razor
Safety first
If you thought getting your hands dirty with straight-edge shaving would cost a fortune, this versatile and affordable razor from Utopia Care could prove you wrong. Thanks to its carefully weighted form, this ergonomic tool offers balance and a solid feel. Thanks to that, you’ll be able to wield it confidently whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned hand. Best of all, it’s made entirely from sturdy stainless steel, offering durability that could last a lifetime. With 100 premium Derby blades also included, you can get started right out of the box.
Pros:
- Safety clip installed to minimize the chance of accidents
- Black matte finish is rust-resistant
- Choose from a striking selection of color styles
Cons:
- Lightweight design could be offputting if you’re used to traditional straight razors
Facon Vintage Straight Edge Razor
Vintage modern
This suave razor from Facon pairs traditional aesthetics with an updated design, and the result is a practical tool for a range of day-to-day grooming applications. The Japanese stainless steel metalwork pairs with a rosewood hilt to give this razor a signature style, superb durability, and smooth handling. The swing-lock blade insert also makes changing razors a breeze. Thanks to the high-profile blade exposure, you can enjoy a remarkably smooth shaving experience with every stroke.
Pros:
- 100 Facon razor blades included
- Heavier than similar replaceable blade razor designs for better handling
- Adjustable tension screws
Cons:
- The Facon blades are thin and extremely sharp, so they can be harder to handle than other brands; however, they also give a closer shave
Kingsland Shaving Co. Hand-Made Straight Razor
Classic cut
This classic offering from Kingsland Shaving Co. is sure to impress experienced straight razor connoisseurs. Meticulously hand-crafted from wood and stainless steel, it features a fixed double hollow blade that offers sharpness and pinpoint precision. Don’t be put off by its virtuosic design if you’re new to the game, though — thanks to its carefully weighted construction, it’s a great tool for beginners to learn the ropes, too.
Pros:
- Weighted handle offers a similar feel to high-end razors at a fraction of the price
- Gorgeous vintage design
- Comes with a stylish storage tin and velvet drawstring bag, making it great for gifting
Cons:
- No sharpening hardware is included
Gentleman John Straight Razor Shave Kit
All the trimmings
If you or the man in your life wants to take a stab at shaving the old way, it’s worth bearing in mind that you need a little more than just a straight razor to get started. Luckily for the beginners amongst us, this fully-loaded shaving kit from Gentleman John is equipped with everything you need to get started with your first shave. The lightweight stainless steel razor is a great choice for beginners, too, with a tactile, lightweight form that’s easy to manipulate.
Pros:
- Traditional shaving soap and alum block are included
- Vintage-inspired brush and shaving bowl will look great on any bathroom counter
- Instruction booklet is included to get you started
Cons:
- We wish this set included more than five spare razor blades for the price
Vertex Disposable Straight Edge Razors, 3-Pack
Cheap and cheerful
Looking for a price cut on a close shave? This value pack from Vertex lets you get a taste of the straight razor experience for less, with three disposable tools included. Though aficionados of the classic style might scoff at the plastic handles, these diamond-cut stainless steel blades are just as sharp as you’d expect from the real deal. Thanks to their downsized form, they’re a great option for trimming edges on your beard or mustache.
Pros:
- Hard plastic covers for safekeeping
- Matte non-slip handles
- Hypoallergenic metal is safe for sensitive skin
Cons:
- Depending on your shaving regiment, these razors will require frequent replacement
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the different types of blades available for straight razors?
Before you stock up on quintessential disposable double-edged razors, bear in mind that there are several blade styles available for straight razors. Some designs feature replaceable blades, and these can be single or double-edged. Classic straight razors feature a fixed blade that can offer a more comfortable handling experience due to their weight, though they require frequent sharpening for effective use.
What other tools might I need alongside my razor?
If you’ve got a fixed-blade razor, you’ll need a sharpening strap and stone to keep it in peak condition. Much like with other manual razors, you’ll also need shaving foam to ease the blade on its way as you work and provide your skin with a little protection in the process. If you want to indulge in the ancient regimen, try applying your foam with a classic brush.
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