Erbe Solingen Razor 4/8" Olive Wood

Erbe Solingen Straight Razor 4/8" – Olive Wood

Fine examples of Solingen grinding craftsmanship. This classic straight razor from Erbe Solingen stands for precise workmanship, calm design, and true shaving tradition. The stainless blade with a width of 4/8" is deliberately slim, allowing for a highly controlled and precise shave.

The handle is made from genuine olive wood. Its distinctive grain makes every razor unique and gives it a warm, natural feel in hand – perfectly suited to the calm ritual of traditional wet shaving.

What is a 4/8" blade best suited for?

A blade width of 4/8 inch is considered a narrower format among straight razors. That is exactly where its strength lies: it is light, agile, and easy to control, allowing for very precise work.

A 4/8" blade is especially well suited for:

• clean lines along sideburns, beard contours, and the neckline
• narrow or finer facial features
• the area around the nose and upper lip
• beginners looking for a straight razor that offers excellent control

Due to its lower weight, the blade requires more active guidance. In return, it provides direct feedback and a high level of control. This makes it ideal for anyone who values precision, awareness, and a deliberate shaving experience.

Shaving with a straight razor

Thoroughly wet the beard area with warm water. The better you work the lather into the beard using a shaving brush, the easier and gentler the hair can be cut. Ideally, use a rich, moisturizing shaving cream or soap to allow the blade to glide smoothly over the skin.

Start with the flatter areas of the face. Carefully open the razor and hold it with your thumb and three fingers, making sure the opened handle points away from your face. Begin with the sideburns and gradually increase the shaved areas over the following days to build confidence and control.

The prepared skin must always be stretched during shaving. Use the fingers of your free hand to tighten the shaving area and guide the blade at an angle of approximately 30°, first with the grain, then carefully across and against the grain.

Move the razor evenly and without pressure. On cheekbones, the chin dimple, and the upper lip, the blade may be held slightly steeper.

Protection from injury

Only use straight razors that are in perfect condition. Never move the blade horizontally, as this can result in deep and dangerous cuts. If the blade is held too flat, it will pull the stubble; if held too steep, it may cut the skin.

If the razor is dropped or the blade becomes misaligned while closing, it must not be used further and should be resharpened by a professional. Simply stropping on a leather strop is not sufficient in this case.

Never touch the blade with your fingers while cleaning, both to avoid injury and to protect the fine cutting edge.

Caring for your straight razor

After shaving, rinse the razor thoroughly with clear water and gently pat it dry. Never rub the blade dry, as this can damage the delicate edge.

If the razor will not be used for an extended period, lightly oil the blade and store it in a dry, well-ventilated place.

Always strop the razor before shaving, not after. Ideally, allow the razor to rest for 24 hours beforehand so the edge can realign itself naturally, helping to preserve sharpness over time.

Stropping the blade

We recommend a hanging strop made from fine cowhide leather. The strop should be kept well tensioned, as a sagging strop can round the blade edge.

Stropping is done at a shallow angle with the spine of the blade resting on the leather. When changing direction, always turn the razor over the spine and move it opposite the cutting edge. Turning over the edge will round it and reduce cutting performance.

Every straight razor is unique. Natural variations in color and grain of the olive wood handle are inherent to the material and emphasize its individual character. The color may differ slightly from the product images.

Important note:
Straight razors are extremely sharp and must never be left within reach of children.