I read the post from AFDAVIS11 “Interesting Article” and the attached “Modern Mechanix article regarding effects of stropping and read with interest the recommendation of applying Vaseline to the edge to prevent oxidation. This made great sense, since viewing the edge under magnification after shaving, I have noticed what I assumed are skin particles attached to the edge. I am sure that even smaller microscopic particles are embedded in the stria and the moisture contained will cause or exacerbate oxidation.

So I started looking for other lubricants to coat the edge. One that I am currently trying and am pleased with is “Lucas Oil’s, Gun Oil”.

It is a synthetic oil designed for use in automatic weapons. It is odorless and does seem to penetrate the metal as advertized. It is a heavy lubricant not quite the consistency of honey but close and is very slick. It does not run off the edge or blade and wipes off cleanly with a paper towel or Kleenex. By the way, I found that unbleached paper napkins donated by Starbucks work excellently to dry a razor. They are extremely absorbent and slightly abrasive.

The literature claims the gun oil not only prevents rust but attacks existing oxidation and does appear to do so at the pivot.

I apply a drop to a Q-tip and apply to the edge first, the pivot pin and swab the entire blade with the remaining saturated tip, leaving a thin layer on the blade. I save the Q-tip in a plastic prescription bottle in the drawer.

Having only used for a week I have not noticed if edge sharpness is extended, though it does have good finger print resistance. Amazingly, it also seems to work well on firearms.

I was wondering if any one has experience with this product or any others worth trying for edge preservation, or your thoughts on edge coating. I find the application only extends the shaving process by a few seconds and even if it does not extend edge life it does protect the metal.

Marty