Butch Harner Razor

richardhead · 04-23-2008, 10:03 PM

I had my first shave with this razor and wanted to give my impression.

The blade is nearly 8/8" in size at 15/16". The razor length is actually a bit short compared to a most razors of this width. Personally I like this shorter length as it keeps the blade away from my ear lobes or goatee.

Although the blade arrived shave-ready, I gave it a few (5-8) strokes on the Chromium Oxide paddle strop, followed by 40 strokes on a horsehide hanging strop to finish. I have heard that stainless steel does well with pastes, this one took on a very nice edge.

I must say that I brought out my best shaving gear to maximize the experience. The combination of Tobac shaving soap, Georgetown pottery scuttle and edwin jagger brush quickly brought up thick mounds of lather. Wielding the razor required some adjustment as the titanium added a bit of weight at the end. By extending the handle to a more obtuse angle the razor was easier to hold and felt more natural in my hand.

A 3-pass shave (WTG, XTG, ATG) plus a few touch-ups brought a BBS shave with no nicks or irritation. 16 hours later and my cheeks are still smooth.

Regarding the fit and finish, I couldn't ask for anything more. The action is smooth with plenty of tension. The spacer actually extends along the length of the scale and forms a 'shelf' so that the blade rests on the inside shoulder, like a third pin. At first I thought the blade rested on the tip, but armed with a flashlight I figured it out. When opening and closing the blade while holding a flashlight, I felt like a kid playing with the refrigerator door to see if the light stays on...

This is a great razor to use and a joy to display. I hope to see many more from Mr. Harner.

Tony.

jwoods · 04-23-2008, 10:39 PM

yes it is a beautiful razor and should hold that edge longer as it is a good grade of stainless i was drooling over the blue handled one didnt have the funds at the time butch makes some really nice quality knifes and razors i hope to see more of his work here on srp

poona · 04-23-2008, 11:27 PM

Sexay piece of steel!

coachmike · 04-24-2008, 12:16 AM

Thanks for a great review and for making my envy grow even more for that razor.

netsurfr · 04-24-2008, 12:30 AM

Great review! I am so jealous.... was so tempted to pick that one up...

L R Harner · 04-24-2008, 01:34 PM

good to hear
always love to hear good feedback (i take bad too)
looks like i might have to look into thinner scales too in the future

randydance062449 · 05-06-2008, 06:03 AM

That is one beautiful razor!

Churchill · 05-06-2008, 03:13 PM

Tony,
Great review on a beautiful razor!I actually like the fact that there's a fingerprint on one of the photos.It helps show the quality of the blade polish quality.