[BetterRed]

Been using a particular brand and model of disposable razors for years. I typically got a weeks usage from each razor. I buy them in packs of a dozen which lasts me for 2-3 months.

This morning I needed to open a new packet, the supposedly rip off polycarbonate film lid was stuck to the container with what must have been epoxy resin glue so I had to get a pair of shears to cut it off. Once I'd done that I discovered the razors were about as sharp as wooden table's leg (I tried two), I threw both away after I finished shaving.

Then I looked at the old and new packaging.

The old packaging had "Made in China using USA steel blades". I had noticed that before, I attributed the source of the steel to the consistent sharpness. The new packaging had "Made in Greece" with no indication of the source of the blades.

I have a deal of respect for the quality of US steel. I inherited some Made in USA stainless steel cookware from my mother, very easy to maintain and they've kept their sheen. They are about 75 years old. Not having much truck for new fangled gadgets, I use them daily.

They were a belated wedding present from Mum's brother, who was a PoW in Changi, Burma railway, and eventually Japan. After he was liberated he spent several months in an Illinois rehab centre before returning to the UK. It was there that he learnt his sister had married, I don't know how he came by the pots and pans - probably the kindness of strangers. They were made in Chicago. I've promised them to his grand daughter who lives in Hamilton Ontario - so they'll be the pots and pans that travelled around the world in 80 years or thereabouts.

Lesson learnt: don't buy Greek blunt as a spoon disposable razors, get the ones the Chinese make with good ol' USA steel blades instead - if they still exist that is.

BR