After their introduction in 1680, straight razors became the principal method of manual shaving for almost two centuries, but their production eventually declined after the late 19th century introduction of the safety razor, which featured a disposable blade.
After their introduction in 1680, straight razors became the principal method of manual shaving for more than two hundred years, and remained in common use until the mid- 20th century. Straight razor production eventually fell behind that of the safety razor, which was introduced in the late 19th century, and featured a disposable blade.