Thiers Issard Straight Razor, 1196, Snakewood, 5/8

Care for Razors

Most razors are made of a high carbon steel, which allows for a long-lasting and sharper edge but is susceptible to rusting when left wet or in a humid environment. To prevent this, one would dry the razor thoroughly after each use and rub it with blade oil when stored for prolonged periods of time.

To maintain the edge, a leather strop is of the utmost importance. Ideally used before each shave, the strop does the best job at polishing a razor for the smoothest shave possible. It is important to use a gentle touch and to keep the spine flat on the leather; pushing too hard or using too steep of an angle can damage the delicate edge.

Even with regular stropping, a razor will need to be honed. In the world of razors, honing is the process of using a sharpening stone to refresh the edge. Depending on its use, a razor will need to be honed one or two times a year. Any razors purchased from Kent of Inglewood will receive their first honing for free, subsequent honing services are a mere $20. If you are the sort to take care of things yourself, a progression of high quality Japanese water stones will prove indispensable.