Thread: DOVO Blackstar 5/8 straight razor

QUICK REVIEW:
DOVO has a good reputation for making quality straight razors. The DOVO Blackstar sampled proved to be quality razor, albeit not absolutely perfect. It is a good value and recommended.


A MORE IN DEPTH REVIEW:
A new DOVO Blackstar 5/8 full hollow ground carbon steel razor with blue pakkawood scales was examined and used for this review. It has proven to be a well made razor and takes a keen edge. It is well designed and a pleasure to use. The fit and finish of both scales and blade were very good. It comes with an aluminum hinged case with foam padding. The pakkawood scales are particularly beautiful in this reviewer's opinion (see closeup photo). The DOVO Blackstar razor is quite good except for the following:
1. the grind has a subtle error (uneven thickness) in the stabilizer running parallel, and next to, the edge (not visible in photos)
2. the color looks purple (not blue) under artificial light... see photos
3. the toe of the blade lightly hits the scales upon closing... see photo
Despite these minor issues the DOVO Blackstar is a very good razor and recommended as a shaver. The reasonable price point of about $90 US also makes it a good value in the current marketplace.


The reviewer welcomes any feedback.

Originally Posted by Forzato

1. the grind has a subtle error (uneven thickness) in the stabilizer running parallel, and next to, the edge (not visible in photos)

I don't understand what you mean here. Can you explain further? Stabilizer bars run perpendicular to the edge. I'm having trouble visualizing your description of what you say was a defect in your razor.

Thanks.

Chris

Chris,

Thanks for the feedback... I'll try to explain.

The DOVO Blackstar tested had a subtle grind error which resulted in minor bevel width variances.

The grind error I speak of is on what is known as the 'ridge' or 'belly' as seen on this link: http://www.en.nassrasur.com/razorcentral/grind.html

The ridge/belly is the metal stabilizer formed parallel to, and within a few millimeters of, the actual razor edge.

If I'm not being clear - let me know.

Thanks again... keep it coming.

Originally Posted by Forzato

The ridge/belly is the metal stabilizer formed parallel to, and within a few millimeters of, the actual razor edge.

Do you mean that you're honing into the belly when honing the razor? Because if you're not then you're describing something pretty normal in my opinion. The nassrasur page gives an exaggerated view for illustation purposes, but you shouldn't expect a belly at the middle of the blade, they're always close to the edge.

bjrn,

Thanks for helping to clarify.

Indeed the belly is close to the edge.

Using the reflection of light, and by slowly rolling the blade while held perpendicular to the light (to provide an even reflection along the length of the blade) - a slight deficiency in the stabilizer/ridge/belly metal can be observed near the heel of the blade (on one side of the blade only). It appears as if, at this particular spot, the blade spent just a moment too long on the grinding wheel.

I have been unable to take a satisfactory photograph to illustrate the issue.

It really does not seem to impair the shave.

Thanks again.

I had one of these for a while Mine didnt apear to have any defects,But although it passed the HTT with flying colours Ijust couldn't get a decent smooth shave with it so I passed it on to a workmate Who hasn't told me of any problems .So it may just have been that the razor didn't suit me.Paul

I shaved with the very same type of razor this morning. It gave me an outstanding close and comfrotable shave. It's been in my rotation since last October and took a minmum amount of honing to achieve a sharp and long lasting edge.

I have this same razor (red handle) and I like it very much. In fact I just finished shaving with it. Mine also closes toward the left side scales a bit. I had to tighten the pin up a little, it was feeling a bit loose. But I have not had any problems getting a good shave with it. I recommend the Black Star.

It looks to me as if there is a fair amount of hone-wear,
IE flattening of the spine. Is this how it came from the
factory?

- Scott

I've honed one of these and was an exceptional shaver.

+1 on what Scott said.