Cut-throat razor, first beard

A cut-throat razor made for a first beard: a straight razor with a narrow blade, designed for hair that is still soft and for anyone learning old-style shaving, on a blade that is forgiving.

Forged carbon steel blade, hollow ground, 4/8 inch wide, round point, made in Thiers by Thiers-Issard, which has forged razors since 1884. Ivory-coloured plastic scales decorated with a stork on its rooftop. Made in France.

A narrow blade is easier to control: you feel the angle, you follow the curves of the face. It arrives sharpened. Dry the blade and tang carefully after each shave and strop it on leather before the next; if it sits unused for a few weeks, a film of petroleum jelly keeps rust away. Carbon steel holds its edge, but stains as soon as it is left damp.