There has been a surge in the use of straight razors. Whether a result of nostalgia or simply a desire to return to the best shaving option available, shopping for a straight razor can be labor intensive. Don’t worry, we’ve done the hard work for you.
This guide is meant to show common differences in straight razors, the best straight razors available, and we’ll even throw in some tips to help you achieve the best barbershop-style shave. From beginning straight razor users to seasoned pros, we’ve got you covered.
| Budget |
|---|
 |
| Equinox Professional Straight Razor |
| 4.4/5.0 |
| Tip Shape: Round-Point |
| Blade Guard: Yes |
| Classic professional razor with blade guard. |
| Check Amazon |
| Best Value |
|---|
 |
| Black Widow Executive Straight Razor |
| 4.4/5.0 |
| Tip Shape: Barbers Notch |
| Blade Guard: Yes |
| Lightweight Razor with blade guard. |
| Check Amazon |
| Top Pick |
|---|
 |
| Feather SS Folding Handle Straight Razor |
| 4.7/5.0 |
| Tip Shape: Round-point |
| Blade Guard: No |
| Solid resin handle, ergonomic design. |
| Check Amazon |
Buying Guide
How did we come to these Straight Razors? When it comes to finding the best and brightest among straight razors, there are many different things to consider. Some of the aspects we considered to determine the best straight razor include:
Blade Type: Straight razors can be found in three general types:
Size: Most straight razors are measured by blade width. Blades that are 5/8” razor are the most common and perfect for lasting strength even after sharpening multiple times. Smaller blade sizes will decrease rapidly when sharpening and may not last as long. High-quality straight razors can last a lifetime, that would mean being sharpened many, many times.
Blade Material: Blades are usually made of either stainless steel or carbon steel. Most modern razors are likely made from carbon steel.
Tip Shape: Straight razors can be found in different tip shapes, the most common being square-point (spike) and round-point. Round-point razors are recommended for beginning shavers to help decrease the risk of razor cuts. Square-point razors can be used with caution until you get used the blade and are perfect for more advanced users.
Other types of tips include:
Grind: Grind refers to the profile of the blade. Blade grinds vary greatly between all straight blade manufacturers. Some believe the best straight razors are made with a wedge grind versus smaller hollow grind blades. Wedge blades will have more mass then hollow blades, however, will require more strop time and becomes harder to sharpen the blade since there is simply more metal.
Beginners should consider starting with a hollow grind blade. Hollow blades are easier to get a good sharp edge than other blades, but special care needs to be taken to prevent rust and corrosion.
Handle: Handles can be very different from razor to razor, however, finding a well-built handle is important. Flimsy handles increase the risk of cuts while shaving. Look for solid wood, metal, or composite handles with some weight. Especially for beginners, it will be important to not have to worry about the handle causing trouble while shaving.
10 Best Straight Razors Comparison Table
| Product Name | Tip Shape | Blade Guard? | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Feather SS Folding Handle Straight Razor | Round-point | No | Check Price |
| Black Widow Executive Straight Razor | Barbers Notch | Yes | Check Price |
| Classic Necessity Shark Straight Razor | Round-Point | Yes | Check Price |
| Facón Professional Classic Straight Razor | Round-Point | No | Check Price |
| Classic Samurai CS-102 Straight Razor | Round-Point | No | Check Price |
| Equinox International Professional Straight Razor | Round-Point | Yes | Check Price |
| Naked Armor Shavette Straight Razor | Round-Point | No | Check Price |
| Parker SRX Heavy Duty Pro Straight Razor | Round-Point | No | Check Price |
| Zertone Natural Wood Straight Razor | Square-point | No | Check Price |
| Utopia Care Professional Straight Razor | Round-Point | Yes | Check Price |
10 Best Straight Razors: Detaild Review
1. Feather SS Folding Handle Straight Razor (Top Pick)
Editor’s Rating: 4.7/5.0
Feather razors are often referred to as the best razors in the world. The Feather SS Folding Handle Razor lives up to the hype. This razor features a solid resin handle with an improved grip design for ultimate control while shaving. The blade sleeve is a generous but manageable 5.6 inches. That with the rounded-point tip make this straight razor a great choice for beginners and advanced shavers.
This blade, however, does not come with blades, they are sold separately.
| Tech Specs |
|---|
| Product weight: 2.4 oz. |
| The Pros |
|---|
| Heavyweight resin handle balanced for maneuverability |
| Round point tip |
| Great for all types of users from beginners to advanced |
| The Cons |
|---|
| Does not come with blades |
| Heavier than other straight razors |
| No blade guard |
2. Black Widow Executive Straight Razor (Best Value)
Editor’s Rating: 4.4/5.0
The Black Widow Executive Straight Razor is a premium straight razor manufactured to be perfectly balanced for a smoother shave experience. The 2.6-ounce razor is made of 100% stainless steel that is rust and tarnish-resistant.
This razor is specifically designed for professionals or more advanced users and with a blade exposure of 1.5mm, this blade requires a steady and sure hand. The swing lock design holds the blade tightly for less movement while shaving. The blade end features a thumb notch similar to that of the standard barber’s notch and a ridged spine for extra control.
The quality craftsmanship is evident in the double-coated, sleek matte black finish, with gold accents and the signature black widow spider displayed prominently on the blade cover. This razor is compatible with most standard straight and double-edged blades.
| Tech Specs |
|---|
| Product weight: 3.2 oz. |
| The Pros |
|---|
| Professional quality straight razor |
| Double-coated stainless steel |
| 1.5mm preset blade exposure |
| Superior friction for secure grip |
| The Cons |
|---|
| Tensioning screw wears quickly with regular adjustments |
| Not designed for novice shavers |
| Lack of adjustable exposure limits some users |
| Smaller razor may not work for individuals with larger hands |
3. Classic Necessity Shark Straight Razor
Editor’s Rating: 4.4/5.0
When what you want is a classic barbershop shave, then you should definitely consider picking up the Classic Necessity’s Shark Straight Razor. This razor comes with 50 Shark or CN double-edged blades, that should provide for up to a year of freshly shaven smooth skin.
Made of high-quality stainless steel provides protection from rust and tarnishing. Increase safety is achieved, thanks to the included blade guard that protects the blade from nicks while not in use, as well as wondering fingers from accidental cuts.
Additionally, this razor is flexible enough to be used by both beginners and well practice shavers. The high-quality design will ensure that the razor will stand up to years of use.
| Tech Specs |
|---|
| Product weight: 4.8 oz. |
| The Pros |
|---|
| Classic design |
| Good beginner razor |
| Includes plenty of blades |
| Rust and tarnish resistant |
| Blade guard for added safety |
| The Cons |
|---|
| The blade may be difficult to install for some users |
| The lightweight handle is hard to judge pressure being placed on the blade |
| Lower quality blades, consider alternatives |
4. Facón Professional Classic Straight Razor
Editor’s Rating: 4.4/5.0
Facón produces a high-quality straight razor in the professional classic razor. This razor is made of the highest quality stainless steel and comes with a black powder coating. The coating helps to add necessary grip to the razor allowing for increased control while shaving and guarantees the razor will never tarnish or rust.
The swing lock blade insert allows for increased blade exposure. The handle is ergonomically designed and allows for secure control thank to the adjustable tensioning build into the hinge. Facón is so convinced you will love their straight razor, they back it with a lifetime, no-questions guarantee!
| Tech Specs |
|---|
| Product weight: 3.8 oz. |
| The Pros |
|---|
| Professional quality classic design |
| Stainless steel armature |
| Double black powder coating adds style and secures grip for increased control |
| Adjustable blade exposure |
| Adjustable tensioner at the hinge for custom hold |
| Lifetime guarantee |
| The Cons |
|---|
| The design may be harder for beginners to use |
| Blade installation may be difficult for some |
| Adjustable tensioner requires regular adjustment, even during a shave session |
5. Classic Samurai CS-102 Straight Razor
Editor’s Rating: 4.4/5.0
The newly redesigned Classic Samurai CS-102 is made of surgical grade stainless steel. Designed for professionals and more advanced users this razor features a smooth non-coated body, that may be hard for novices to control.
The round-point design will help reduce nicks and cuts, and the easy to use blade lock system allows for quick and easy blade replacement. The smaller shavette increases control in the tightest areas.
This razor comes with 100 professional grade single edged blades with a finely-honed edge for premium glide. They also throw in a simple pouch to protect the razor during storage.
| Tech Specs |
|---|
| Product weight: 2.4 oz. |
| The Pros |
|---|
| Professional quality razor |
| Made of surgical grade stainless steel |
| Designed for more advanced users |
| An affordable option for occasional shavers |
| The Cons |
|---|
| Lack of adequate blade stops for a firm hold |
| Difficult to load |
| Blades included wear quickly |
| Flimsy blade lock can easily bend |
| Prone to corrosion |
6. Equinox International Professional Straight Razor (Best Budget)
Editor’s Rating: 4.4/5.0
Equinox International provides a quality straight razor designed to harness the user’s precision shaving capability. This razor features a smooth semi-round point tip, premium beveled blade locks, and a swivel blade holding arm for quick and simple blade replacement. It comes with 100 professional grade single Derby blades that will last up to 200 individual shaves.
Although this razor is designed for professionals and more advanced users, with careful practice this makes an excellent choice for beginners as well. This razor is models after the first disposable blade straight razors of the past to bring a touch of nostalgia to your shaving experience. Made of high-quality stainless steel that is guaranteed to never rust, tarnish or corrode in any way, this razor will last as long as you need it.
The smooth ergonomic design increased comfort while ensuring better control and stability. The spine features a small curve to rest the little fingers against while the thumb and forefingers find easy positioning just beneath the blade housing.
Backed by a full 30-day 100% satisfaction guarantee, there is really no reason not to give this razor a chance to prove it’s worth.
| Tech Specs |
|---|
| Product weight: 4.3 oz. |
| The Pros |
|---|
| Professional grade |
| Made from stainless steel |
| Ergonomic design for more control |
| Semi-round point tip |
| Value bundle comes with 100 Derby Pro blades |
| The Cons |
|---|
| Hinge pin prone to corrosion and rust |
| Beginners must use caution, harder to control than other razors |
| Imbalanced |
| The blade may not be held securely |
7. Naked Armor Shavette Straight Razor
Editor’s Rating: 4.3/5.0
Naked Armor’s Shavette Straight Razor is a perfect choice for individuals just starting with straight razors. This high-quality razor features a smooth round-point design that helps to protect users from accidental nicks and cuts. The blade armature is made with superior Japanese stainless steel and comes in black, silver, and blue to fit your personal style. The 15.7 cm blade offers the perfect combination of control and flexibility.
This shavette razor comes with everything you need to get started including a blade and fine leather case perfect for storage or travel. Naked Armor is so sure you will love their razors they provide a lifetime satisfaction guarantee, love it or your money back!
| Tech Specs |
|---|
| Product weight: 2.8 oz. |
| The Pros |
|---|
| Made from Japanese stainless steel |
| 15.7 cm blade |
| The easy hinged blade housing |
| Genuine leather case |
| 3 colors available |
| The Cons |
|---|
| Surface smoothness issues |
| Cost more than comparable razors |
| Flexible blade housing may warp or bend easily |
8. Parker SRX Heavy Duty Pro Straight Razor
Editor’s Rating: 4.3/5.0
Parker is one of the most well-known companies in the shaving industry, having been an industry leader for over 40 years. So, it should come a little surprise to find one of their razors on this list. The Parker SRX Heavy Duty Professional Straight Razor is made of heavyweight stainless steel. This razor is designed for professionals and advanced users but may work for some beginner users.
The round-point design helps to minimize nicks and cuts, while the locking blade holder helps to provide a sturdy hold on the razor blade for a smoother shave. While this razor includes 5 Shark Stainless steel single blades, it is compatible with most standard single and double edge blades.
The classic design allows for quick and easy blade changes, so a dull blade will never slow you down. And many users feel this is the closest replacement blade straight razor to traditional permanent blade razors, without the need for constant maintenance.
| Tech Specs |
|---|
| Product weight: 2.4 oz. |
| The Pros |
|---|
| Profession grade razor |
| Entire razor made of heavy-duty stainless steel |
| Round point tip for increased safety |
| Balanced weight great for all types of users from beginners to pros |
| The Cons |
|---|
| Blade replacement hinge is tight |
| Rivets may loosen over time causing vibration in the blade |
| Quality control issues |
| Blade installation may be difficult for some users |
9. Zertone Natural Wood Straight Razor
Editor’s Rating: 4.1/5.0
We wanted to make sure to include a traditional solid blade straight razor that is comparable to the other replaceable blade razors included. The Zertone Natural Wood Straight Razor is a quality traditional straight razor. The handle is made from 100% natural mahogany polished and sealed to last, this handle feels great in the hand. The half-hollow design allows for easier maintenance including sharpening and stropping.
The razor blade is made of solid, high-quality, carbon steel and with proper maintenance can hold a smooth, sharp edge well, but will need to be stropped before first use. This is the perfect solid blade straight razors for beginners, and with care, this razor will last quite a while.
| Tech Specs |
|---|
| Product weight: 2.4 oz. |
| The Pros |
|---|
| Traditional solid blade straight razor |
| 100% natural mahogany handle |
| Carbon steel blade |
| Half-hollow grind |
| The Cons |
|---|
| May need to be honed and sharpened before first use |
| Customer service leaves a lot to be desired |
10. Utopia Care Professional Straight Razor
Editor’s Rating: 4.1/5.0
Utopia Care provides a professional quality straight razor that can easily provide even novice users with a great shaving experience. This razor features Japanese stainless steel that is rust and tarnish-resistant with a matte black finish for added style and functions as added grip. The quick-flip blade cover is designed for fast and easy blade changes.
The razor arm is made of brass with a chrome overlay that helps the disposable blades to glide easily over the skin. The round point tip and blade locking pins reduce the risk of nicks and cuts for even nervous beginners.
Included with the razor you will get 100 Derby Premium chromium-platinum-tungsten single edge blades with a polymer coated edge for superior sharpness and smoothness. Additionally, this razor is compatible with most standard single and double edge blades
| Tech Specs |
|---|
| Product weight: 3.84 oz. |
| The Pros |
|---|
| Profession quality |
| Made of 100% Japanese stainless steel |
| The matte black finish adds style and grip |
| Includes Derby Premium single edge blades |
| Round point tip for increase safety |
| Great for novice and advanced users |
| The Cons |
|---|
| Blade angle set may be too aggressive for some users |
| Black lock pins bend easily blade vibration |
| Not weight balanced |
| Blade replacement cover hinge is often tight making changing blades more difficult for some |
Tips for Using Straight Razors:
Find a Quality Shave Soap or Cream: It is not recommended to ever attempt to dry shave with a straight razor. That being said, taking the time to find a high-quality shaving cream or soap will allow you to achieve a smoother glide resulting in a closer shave and better overall shaving experience.
Invest in a Solid Shave Brush: No all shave brushes are created equally. Investing in a natural fiber shave brush that is designed to assist you with obtaining the perfect, rich lather will reward you time and again. Synthetic brushes will not absorb water enough, if at all, and can easily scratch the skin increasing the risk of razor burn, cuts, and skin irritation.
Skin Care: Proper skin care is perhaps most important for straight razor users. Taking the time to pamper the skin will help to ensure you have the best foundation for achieving your desired smooth shave.
Before shaving, make sure that the skin is clean, and gently exfoliated. This will help to remove excess oil that may inhibit razors effectiveness. Avoid using moisturizers or products that contain oils just before shaving to reduce the risk of corrosion on your straight razor. Straight razors that are rust and tarnish resistant may be necessary for individuals with exceptionally dry skin that must use extra moisturizers or oils during shaving.
Between shaves make sure to fully moisturize the skin. Properly hydrated skin is fuller and contains more elasticity and flexibility, leading to a smoother shave with a reduced risk of nicks and cuts.
Moist Heat: A good hot towel treatment isn’t just for effect in westerns and classic movies that feature a barbershop shave. Using moist heat helps to open up the hair follicles and hair shafts expand allowing for easier removal. Additionally, the moist heat helps to hydrate the skin allowing for a closer, smoother shave.
Aftershave Balms and Lotions: The final type concerns the use of aftershave products. While many of these products may contain high fragrances, you can easily find some that are designed to offer a gentle, soothing effect to the skin following a shave. The best balms and lotions will contain only natural ingredients and be free of strong fragrances and alcohols that may burn or cause other skin irritations.
Conclusion
This guide has covered the best straight razors, the differences that can be found in straight razors, as well as a few tips to assist you in achieving the smooth comfortable shaving experience. It is our hope that this guide has offered you the necessary information to help you decide which straight razor may be just perfect for you. Whether you are just moving up to a straight razor or been using one for years, the best straight razors included here are great options for all.
Contents
- Buying Guide
- 10 Best Straight Razors Comparison Table
- 10 Best Straight Razors: Detaild Review
- 1. Feather SS Folding Handle Straight Razor (Top Pick)
- 2. Black Widow Executive Straight Razor (Best Value)
- 3. Classic Necessity Shark Straight Razor
- 4. Facón Professional Classic Straight Razor
- 5. Classic Samurai CS-102 Straight Razor
- 6. Equinox International Professional Straight Razor (Best Budget)
- 7. Naked Armor Shavette Straight Razor
- 8. Parker SRX Heavy Duty Pro Straight Razor
- 9. Zertone Natural Wood Straight Razor
- 10. Utopia Care Professional Straight Razor
- Tips for Using Straight Razors:
