Completed Bigelow-Parkin Folding DE Razor pass around

sɐǝɹpu∀

sɐǝɹpu∀

riverrun


This razor is going on a mini pass-around to @culcreuch, so I thought I give others the opportunity to join in. In case you missed the last pass-around three years ago.

The razor is not - I repeat - not scary. It's quite easy to use if you lock your wrist and use your lower arm as one long handle. That's the only secret.

Here is how it works:
View from the top with the little grip handles folded in. Note the star-shaped holes - they give more grip than round ones or handles without holes would.

The handles fold out:

View from the bottom. You open the razor by lifting the base plate where it says Open here:

Then you put a blade in ...

close the base plate and fold out the handles fully. Pick up the razor with thumb and index finger and you're ready to go.

My interactive version of the 1921 patent for this razor can be found here.

If you are new to pass arounds read this first.
Anyone?

  1. culcreuch
  2. You?
The list is open.
Legend: Completed, Currently with, Waiting
 
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culcreuch

culcreuch

Forum GOD!
Thank you for the opportunity Andreas. Having read your previous posts elsewhere.....I am already scouring the Internet for one ....in anticipation of a successful outcome:D
 
sɐǝɹpu∀

sɐǝɹpu∀

riverrun
culcreuch said:
Thank you for the opportunity Andreas. Having read your previous posts elsewhere.....I am already scouring the Internet for one ....in anticipation of a successful outcome:D
Click to expand...
They do show up on eBay US now and then. Unfortunately, postage from the US is usually quite high. I'll post mine today or tomorrow.
 
culcreuch

culcreuch

Forum GOD!
The Bigelow-Parkin arrived with me this morning and I was able to use it for today's SOTD.
I said that I like Quirky Razors and this one certainly fits the bill. My initial difficulty was remembering to lock my wrist...but after a short time that was overcome.
I used a blade which I know to be smooth and the results really were spectacular for a first use. The overall finish was BBS and the shave passed the Alum test!

Many thanks to Andreas for re-educating me. i had no idea it even existed and it just proves that we can still learn a few things from vintage razor manufacturers.
I will enjoy using it in the time remaining to me.
 
sɐǝɹpu∀

sɐǝɹpu∀

riverrun
culcreuch said:
The Bigelow-Parkin arrived with me this morning and I was able to use it for today's SOTD.
I said that I like Quirky Razors and this one certainly fits the bill. My initial difficulty was remembering to lock my wrist...but after a short time that was overcome.
I used a blade which I know to be smooth and the results really were spectacular for a first use. The overall finish was BBS and the shave passed the Alum test!

Many thanks to Andreas for re-educating me. i had no idea it even existed and it just proves that we can still learn a few things from vintage razor manufacturers.
I will enjoy using it in the time remaining to me.
Click to expand...
I'm glad you like the little marvel - it is fun. Take your time. It's not as there is a mad rush to try the razor and I have other plans for the coming weeks.
It's a pity that out of the three patents the inventor has filed this is the only type that was ever made.
There is one patent for a similar razor that takes double or single edge blades and another one for a razor that only takes single edge blades but is adjustable. I'm sure this would have been the smallest adjustable razor ever.
 
culcreuch

culcreuch

Forum GOD!
Great to see more people joining in!
I will probably have a couple more shaves and then post it on to @Boru62 early next week. I am really enjoying using the Bigelow-Parkin....but must confess that I am beginning to struggle with the concept of using the same razor every day and it would be improper to hold on to it if it is not in use and other people are waiting
 
Boru62

Boru62

Shaving Boar
culcreuch said:
Great to see more people joining in!
I will probably have a couple more shaves and then post it on to @Boru62 early next week. I am really enjoying using the Bigelow-Parkin....but must confess that I am beginning to struggle with the concept of using the same razor every day and it would be improper to hold on to it if it is not in use and other people are waiting
Click to expand...
I can't speak for everyone but fill your boots Brian.
 
culcreuch

culcreuch

Forum GOD!
I had my last shave with this razor today. I have really enjoyed my shaves this week. All have been exceptional but my technique improved with use and it was second nature by today. I would be more than happy to have one of these in my rotation....so an ebay search is active to hopefully find one!
Many thanks to Andreas for the challenge and enablement.

I am off on Monday and will post to the next lucky recipient.
 
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sɐǝɹpu∀

sɐǝɹpu∀

riverrun
culcreuch said:
I had my last shave with this razor today. I have really enjoyed my shaves this week. All have been exceptional but my technique improved with use and it was second nature by today. I would be more than happy to have one of these in my rotation....so an ebay search is active to hopefully find one!
Many thanks to Andreas for the challenge and enablement.

I am off on Monday and will post to the next lucky recipient.
Click to expand...
I'm glad you liked it. It's not too bad for a razor invented 99 years ago.
You should be able to get one for £30 including postage from the US quite easily. £20 if you have a lot of patience. Razors with the original leather pouch go for more than those without. It's nice to know who gave away the razor as an advertising gift, but I wouldn't bother too much. Don't be worried if the razor looks grubby. Mine was and it cleaned up nicely.
 
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