The Bundu Whackers are a new range of razors that are meant to fill a void in the market, and as with many new product lines, cost to customer was the biggest criteria. Our main aim is to collaborate with Andre from Grobler Cutlery to produce a handmade razor for around 2k. Off course we had to limit the time spent on fit and finish, but believe us when we say these razors are going to find regular use from novice and experienced shavers alike because they shave well and are very comfortable in hand. Despite the limitations in the input costs of these razors, the the coolness factor was not lost, these are some damn pretty creations and I personally prefer them over most vintage razors I have used, and also many of the new razors from larger manufacturers.
The feedback from these razors is mostly quite good, a couple of factors such as grind type, the thickness of the blade, blade shape and blade size are some of the factors that will increase or lessen the audible feedback from cutting your beard. If you are new to straight razor shaving please note that feedback from a blade is NOT to be interpreted as a blunt blade, many first timers may think so, or may even be intimidated by the sound of hair getting slashed, but one learn to appreciate it fairly quickly. Razor feedback adds an additional dimension (hearing/sound) that will provide valuable information as you get to know your razor. One such advantage is to be able to identify where the razor keeps on running over freshly cut stubble without it seeming to cut all of it , this is a clear indication that you need to change the direction of your shave if you want to get a very smooth shave, in all likeliness your hair is growing in directions where going across or against it is required to get smooth as a cue ball.
The blade is made of Bohler k460 steel, it has been tempered and hardened to 61-63 RC, mostly to the higher end of the two perimeters. The blade has a slight smile and is 78 mm long, the grind on the blade is half hollow. The blade is just over 1' with a 9/8 grind on the heel, sloping gently to a 1" blade height on the toe. We went for translucent blue scales with olive burl on this razor, and the wedge is made from the same material. The heel sits quite low in the scales, so keep this one in a pouch to avoid damage to your blade or other items in your kit.
The blade has been "wet tested" and is shave ready, and only needs a light stropping before being used. This one whacks the scale to 88 grams, considering most vintage straights weigh around 30 to 40 grams, this is to be enjoyed by folks who like the tool to do the work, rather than controlled muscle movement, just glide this bad boy over your cheeks and it will slaughter your stubble.