This C.F. Wolfertz razor were made in Allentown PA under various reorganiziations of the company from 1862-1944, they were made of high quality American steel, and it is interesting that when C.F. Wolfertz first set up his cutlery factory, he used dogs to power the grinding wheels! One can only imagine the clatter of machinery and the cacophony of barking dogs, heard daily in the shop, later on they converted to steam.
The razor has a half hollow grind, the height is 17 mm or 6/8ths, the cutting edge is around 66 mm long. It has a square tip, black celluloid scales that are firm and fairly straight with a blade that centers pretty much right in the middle. The pinning looks neat and the bevel is very thin, but also nice and even, a sure sigh of a razor that has seen very little action The razor has a 4 mm spine giving it a bevelled angle of 13 degrees.
The razor strops fast and comfortable on paddles and hanging stops. The shave was crispy, sharp and very comfotable it took a great edge and I required only one pass without any stretching of the skin and some buffing in the softer folds of the neck for a great result. It was surprisingly quiet for the relatively large blade with a thin grind, if you like audible feedback this sniper may not be for you, that being said I did a proper shave prep, so beard that is a bit harder may have it sing a different tune.
*Vintage razors are priced according to model and availability, time spent cleaning and reconditioning them, and also time spent getting the edge into a shave ready condition (some are preserved as is, or sold as is for the new owner to sharpen) Please enquire if you need additional work done to this razor prior to purchase.
All straight razors will require a stropping on leather after its first use. Pics are unedited (for detail) and provide a true image of the condition of the razor.
The razor weighs only 45 grams, and is in great shape considering its age and origin, they don't come around in an original condition like this one much, its a keeper for sure! The razor has some minor scuffs and fine scratches on it and a bit of elbow grease and metal polish should bring it right back to new condition, but personally I would opt to use it in its current condition, and possibly look into a refurb a few years down the line.