NOOB with first straight razor - need help

**Spence71** · 12-29-2011, 09:26 PM

I have recently started researching my father's "Wade & Butcher". In doing so I have come to realize the large amount of straight razor enthusiasts out there. Now I'm really interested in getting this razor fixed up and using it. I have searched all over the internet to find another one like mine. I would like to know how old it is. That would tell me if my father got it from his father. On the blade is etched....1st line "The Sheffield"...2nd line "Hollow Ground Razor"...below that is the logo, a B in a circle, an arrow and a cross. I've seen many razors etched Extra Hollow or the Celebrated Hollow, but none exactly as mine. Attached is a photo of one exactly like mine, except - Aside from the blade etching it is marked the same on the shank and the scales are the same in color and design. I also have the box which is marked "Wade & Butcher" - logo - "Sheffield, England". Then on the smaller portion of the box stamped in exactly the way the other is it says "Price $5.oo Each"

Any help or guidance for this noob is appreciated

**Mike H** · 12-30-2011, 03:57 AM

Welcome to B&B Spence, since the razor has the country of origin, it was made after 1890. What kind of condition is your razor in?

**Dacol** · 12-30-2011, 04:28 AM

Welcome! Wade & Butcher made good razors, when it's in a good condition and sharp it should give u a good shave! Practise makes perfect of course!

**Sledgehammer39** · 12-30-2011, 05:41 AM

Welcome Aboard!

**jadam318** · 12-30-2011, 06:02 AM

Hey Spence. First of all, welcome to B&B!

Second, look here for information (B&B Wiki) on your razor. You may not be able to find the exact manufacture date, but you can probably narrow it down a bit. Also, you may post this same thread over in the Strait Razor Forums here on B&B. There are some guys over there that might be able to tell you off the top of their head.

Either way, Wade & Buthers make for great shaving. They have a very loyal following. Best of luck with it.

**NickCutlip** · 12-30-2011, 07:40 AM

Welcome to B&B !!

**chuckr9** · 12-30-2011, 07:54 AM

Welcome to B&B! The WB razor should be good shaver for you if properly honed.

**Spence71** · 12-30-2011, 08:05 AM

Thanks for the replies. To answer Mike H, my razor isn't even close to the condition of the one in the picture i posted. To help out I'm attaching a couple of pictures of my own.

**Mike H** · 12-30-2011, 08:27 AM

Mirror polish is over rated. I love a nice patina, especially on an heirloom razor. IMO, a gentle polish with maas, have it honed and enjoy it. Your blade appears to be in great shape, almost no hone wear and the razor has beautiful lines.
Congratulations!

**JLuger** · 12-30-2011, 12:31 PM

What would you use to apply MAAS to a razor like that? I also like the idea of a certain amount of patina, but most of the razors I've cleaned up needed a lot of rubbing, then tumbling to get the scratches out. That inevitably makes them almost mirror like.

edit: That's a great looking razor btw.