Vintage 1930's 6/8" Puma 89 German Straight Razor
Another rare and unique find.
Since its early days in 1769, when Johann Wilhelm Lauterjung registered his company’s trademark, the Solingen-based Puma company has been manufacturing a wide range of quality blades that have been prized the world over for their quality, durability and attractive designs. Originally, the blades made by the Puma company were honed on natural stone, using hydraulic power. The company kept up with technology over the years, including early adoption of steam engine power in its manufacturing plants.
In 1920, the company built its second plant in Solingen and started exporting Puma hunting, household and personal blades – including razors – around the world.
Part of the lasting popularity of the original Puma straight razors stems from the fact that they were designed for heavy daily use by barbers. They feature 3-pin construction. The durability of the blades can be attributed to the incredible strength of the Puma-Steel, which had a Rockwell hardness of between 55 and 57. Home shavers using “barber razors” benefit from longer lasting edges, extending the time between honings. The dedication to quality also shone through in their strong and protective Bakelite woodgrain coffin cases. Puma razors can be easily recognized by the attractive logo, inset into one scale, and by the quality control numbers stamped into the scales, right by the hinge pin.
This razor is in great overall condition with no rust. Very well looked after considering it's age. As can be expected after 70+ years, there is very slight patina and pitting on the blade.
The blade will need honing should you want to shave with it. And the traditional way to hone it, is on a leather strop.
And the opinions are universal - there is NO shave like a straight razor shave. Bear in mind that razor manufacturers have moved away from traditional shaving methods to disposable and cartridge systems. WHY? There is no money in it for them with straight razors and even safety razors because they last for ever and DE safety blades are as cheap as chips.
There is a HUGE resurgence worldwide to the traditional wet shave. And the reasons are simple:
1) The best shaves ever
2) Very cheap
3) Very satisfying - nothing like a clean shaved face
4) The nostalgia, the ritual and the smell
And ask yourself the question: Why do all professional barbers worldwide still use traditional shaving tools? So come on people, join the millions who know what a shave should be like!
Here is a nice video tutorial on a straight razor shave - check it out!:
