Thoughts on Muh-Tsyr Japanese Style Straight?

[Xerxes]

Greetings, my first post.

I currently use a Feather AC, at least on weekends when I can take my time. I was thinking about options for a real straight razor. I saw this Japanese Style Straight (http://www.japanesetools.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=213&products_id=2330) for sale. http://www.japanesetools.com/images/large/MYRZ1_LRG.jpg

Anybody got one? What do you think of it?

[TstebinsB]

Welcome to B&B!

I prefer the vintage razors from the true masters. Compared to the vintage razors, this is overpriced. There are a few people today making Japanese-styled razors but it baffles me to see their asking price. A NOS, mint Tosuke wouldn't cost you more than $200 from Japan, and that would be expensive. An Iwasaki can be found for about $250. Both razors are handmade and come from people who had been making these razors for 30+ years. I don't see how someone copying them and with maybe a few years experience can ask for more money or even similar money.

[Kees]

Welcome to B&B!

I prefer the vintage razors from the true masters. Compared to the vintage razors, this is overpriced. There are a few people today making Japanese-styled razors but it baffles me to see their asking price. A NOS, mint Tosuke wouldn't cost you more than $200 from Japan, and that would be expensive. An Iwasaki can be found for about $250. Both razors are handmade and come from people who had been making these razors for 30+ years. I don't see how someone copying them and with maybe a few years experience can ask for more money or even similar money.

Hi Telly,

I agree this is an unknown razor smith, but he does seem to have plenty experience going by the description of the razor.

[TstebinsB]

Hi Telly,

I agree this is an unknown razor smith, but he does seem to have plenty experience going by the description of the razor.

Muh-Tsyr was formally trained in boatbuilding. He was an apprentice under Michael Bell, a master in swordmaking. Razors are different from katanas and obviously, different from wooden boats. It was in 2002 that Muh-Tsyr went to Japan, and he didn't go to apprentice - just to visit. Six years - that's if he's spent the whole time making razors - doesn't compare to 30+ years of the razorsmiths.

All this doesn't mean that his razor isn't a quality product or isn't made well. It may very well be superb. However, I couldn't justify paying $200 from a relative newbie when a veteran in the game sells for about the price.

[Xerxes]

Your comments are appreciated. I will learn more about these Tosuke and Iwasaki of which you speak.

[Thebigspendur]

Your spending some serious money for a real unknown here. It may be great and it may not be. Its a real leap of faith. I would agree absent an iron clad guarantee to take it back if you don't like it I would get a genuine product if you can find one.

Just consider Japanese razors can be very challenging to use. Many have them but few use them except on rare occasions and the maint. on them can be difficult also. I didn't see a pic of the profile of the razor so I don't know if the blade is entirely like a traditional straight or not.

Also whenever I see a product described as...style it usually means its something similar but not the real thing.