The straight razor, or cut-throat razor, has been in use for hundreds of years. It is comprised a single blade which folds into the handle when not in use. Straight razors were not for the faint of heart and required training in its use as well as honing and stropping the blade, which meant most men seeking a straight razor shave would go to a barber. In the 20th century, the safety razor pushed the straight razor out of favor due to its initial lower cost and ease of use.
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