New Aluminum Hone 15 Razor

Is that raw aluminum, or if it is an alloy, which one is it? I wouldn't think anyone is using straight aluminum to make a razor.

That's interesting to hear about razor threads. I don't own any aluminum razors, so I have never experienced it myself. I'm surprised. I'd buy a brass razor over an aluminum razor because of weight and balance, but if the aluminum threads are weak, or if makers are just using junky type alloys, then even the better.

To be more specific to this application I reached out to Hone to see if they had any input.  

In short, after reading many metal threads on various trade forums there is no consensus.  Some folks said brass is not as flexible and thus brass threads appear to have a higher failure rate.  And some folks said aluminium leaves behind dust when used heavily.

The truth is out there (cue x-files theme song)...

And here is the reply from Andrew at Hone razor:

Brass might be slightly more forgiving of being over tightened than the aluminium, which would be the most likely way I suspect a thread would get damaged. The extra hardness of the aluminium meaning it could possibly strip its own threads easier, but it is not ideal for either. But I would likely say that in normal operation both will be equally reliable for a considerable number of years. The threads aren’t taking an excessive load. The andoised surface on the aluminium possibly wear or chip before the brass was worn out; But the flip side is the brass requires more attention to maintain overall, as the surface of the Type 15 is natural, if left screwed together for a couple of years in moisture it could seize like anything mechanical.

Almost all 3 piece razors are amazingly reliable, and their only real weak point is the threads so its an interesting point. There are some very old brass razors out there so that is well known that they can last a long time. Aluminium is also well known, and might not have the heritage in shaving specifically but if the thread is properly cut and tapped it is more than up to the task in this application.

I hope that is a good answer, if you have any other questions I would love to hear them, I enjoy speaking to anyone interested. I would also love to know the outcome of the discussion? Many thanks for getting in touch.

Kind Regards,
Andrew

Hello Gentlemen,

Some feedbacks as of The Hone Type 15a.

I use to have the Hone Type 15 in the brass version. I loved this razor in every aspects : material, design, blade clamp, weight and balance. No irritations, no blood spots, no nothing on my neck (despite a highly sensitive skin). Unfortunately, it was too mild for me. I had to constantly finish my 3-passes shave with additional strokes here and there, and only got DFS+ (sometimes, BBS). It reminded me the Pils and The Feather ASD2. There were not for me. I then sent it back to Andrew who refund it as soon as he got it back (Andrew is a gentleman. Always on to reply mails, answer questions, give advices).

I then turned to the Hone type 15a (black, 85 mm handle) which is given being slightly more aggressive than the brass version but still in the mild zone. And it is for sure! No doubt that Andrew took into account the feedbacks of the first users of the brass version.

It has all the assets of the brass version with an increasing blade feel and efficiency. Loaded with a Kai (clamped like mad), I easily reached the BBS in 3 passes. Period. Its light weight makes it very manoeuvrable and the form factor of the handle positions the razor ideally in my hand. The Hone Aluminium is combining mildness and efficiency with talent, to such extent that it reminds me the OneBlade (for a fraction of its price). As with the brass version, may you load it with brand new blades such as a Kai, Feather and even a Merkur, the Hone Aluminium produces great shaves in maximum comfort.

My only regret is that the brass head is not configured as the aluminium's. But Andrew mailed me that he is exploring this possibility. And that's a wonderful news.