Best Japanese Straight Razors for the Closest Shave Ever

Professional barbers and experienced straight razor shavers say that the closeness of your shave is determined by the quality of your equipment. If so, the A.P. Donovan Straight Razor is just the proper piece. It’s a true masterpiece made of premium Japanese carbon tempered steel (similar to the Shirogami steel) that achieves the hardness of impressive 64 HRC enabling the production of immensely sharp blades for the closest yet effective and gentle shave. The open-blade razor from A.P. Donovan boasts the strength and sharpness of a Samurai sword allowing your bristle or even beard to go from scruffy to baby-smooth in mere minutes.

This handmade professional tool comes in a gorgeous kit with a brush, shaving soap, a strop, and a decorative razor case all made from the finest materials. The razor and brush handles and the case are made of natural Mahogany wood giving a classy and chic look to the kit. The brush uses Badger's hairs to gently spread the foam over your skin. The strop from cow leather and robust linen fabric will hone your razor blade to perfection. Enjoy the old shaving tradition with A.P. Donovan.

Pros:

•  Impressively hard and super sharp blade for an exceptional shave;
• The razor and all accessories are made of premium-class materials.

If you look for something special for your partner, dad, brother, or son who is into the ritual of straight razor shaving, a cut-throat razor kit from Naked Armor is the perfect men’s gift. It comes in an attractive wooden case and includes all the essentials for a full barbershop experience. 

In the box, you will find a classy Japanese straight razor that features a sharp shave-ready blade made of the highest-grade steel from Japanese artisans and a handle of natural Biblical wood with accented gold copper tips for the right balance during use. For a thorough clean shave at home or on the road, the kit contains a custom leather travel case allowing you to take you blade wherever you go. The soap made from all-natural ingredients creates dense yet delicate foam while a friendly yet extremely soft Badger brush will help you perfectly lather your face. The only thing you might want to add to the kit is a foaming bowl. 

Beautifully packed and complete with all the necessary accessories, the Naked Armor Japanese Razor Kit will let you not only immerse in the tradition but also experience one of the best shaves in your life.

Pros:

• Free guidance on straight razor shaving techniques;
• Complete kit for professional shaving experience at home.

Feather is a Japanese manufacturer highly rated and trusted by the customers for its top-of-the-line grooming tools made of high-quality materials. The Feather SS Straight Razor is not an exception. At a glance, the razor looks very simple. Yet, after more detailed consideration, you’ll see that it’s a true piece of Japanese craftsmanship. 

It is the ultimate replaceable razor that offers completely new shaving experience. The blade is made of strong and durable first-class stainless steel resistant to heat, chemicals, and impurities. The rounded blade tip and optimal blade exposure ensure close and smooth yet soft and safe shaving experience. The blade is extremely easy to replace. Thanks to a spring-mounted mechanism, it almost effortlessly drops out at a pinch of the razor head. Another distinguishing benefit of this model is a meticulously engineered handle made of water resistant silicone, ensuring secure non-slip grip for precise shaving control. 

Featuring the blade and handle suitable for disinfection by boiling or using ethanol, the Feather SS is ideal for barber shops. However, simple and convenient to use, it will cater to the domestic shaving needs as well. Once you try it, you’ll never get back to your old electric or safety razor.    

Pros:

• Easy to replace blade;
• Ergonomic non-slip handle for efficient shaving control.

Whether you are a professional barber or a beginner who wants to master traditional shaving methods, the Unfold Goods Straight Razor will tend to all your needs. 

A high-quality Japanese stainless steel blade comes pre sharpened and will deliver a perfect shave every time. The steel has the hardness of 59-61 HRC that allows the blade to hold the edge and remain super sharp longer than soft steel while sharpening is really a breeze as compared to hard steels. In addition, the blade is hollow ground, offering just the right flexibility level for better maneuvering and precise super-smooth shaving experience with minimal nicks and burns. A solid Mahogany wood handle not only sits conveniently in the hand and adds proper balance to the razor but also gives it an elegant sleek look. The whole razor construction is rugged and strong. It will not get loose and will faithfully serve you for years to come, no matter if you use the razor several times a day like barbers do or just occasionally use it to mold your beard.

Durable and reliable, the Unfold Goods straight razor stands out for a well-thought design and will make a perfect addition to your salon grooming arsenal or personal bathroom setup.  

Pros: 

• Hollow ground blade for really close and thorough shave;
• Beautiful handle of natural wood for a classy eye-catching look.

The Velvet Forge Japanese Straight Razor features the same classic style design once used by our grandparents. It has a round point blade made of genuine stainless steel that comes honed to perfection and works well on any type of stubble, be it a fine one-day bristle or thick beard. The blade is 4” wide to give you better coverage at a single pass for quicker shaving. Meanwhile, it is positioned in a handle at an optimal angle to prevent accidental cuts. The matte black handle is ergonomically designed, ensuring a convenient grip for precise shaving control. For maximum strength and ease of disassembly, the handle is securely affixed with machine screws. 

What really sets this razor apart from other traditional models is a sleek all-steel construction that makes it extremely durable and long-lasting and gives it a modern appeal. With the Velvet Forge, you will master an old shaving art and always get an excellent shave. 

The straight razor is delivered in a quality leather pouch great for safe storage and transportation.   

Pros:

• Classic design for barbershop-quality shaving results;
• Steel construction for long-lasting use.