How to polish an old razor? OR Who here can shine mine up and sharpen it?

Thanks for all of the help in your forums. I am a newbie to SR shaving, but have been shaving with a DE for some time. Decided to make the switch. I need some advise or help.

I've got an old John Prince hand made, was told that it was my granfather's. One of the scales is broken off at one end. From what I gather this is possibly an early model Boker. Does anyone know the history? It needs to be cleaned, polished and sharpened. Any suggestions? Also the scales need to be replaced.

Thanks in advance.
DCS

No matter what you decide to do you should at least have the scales repaired. Without a good pivot, the blade will be unwieldy at best and dangerous at worst. You can do the scales yourself, buy a replacement kit, or send it out. If you're going to send her out for new scales, you might as well have that person clean her up too (and honed, unless you can hone your own). Look through the workshop and the gallery to find someone who's work you like, or check out the "Member Services" section of the classifieds.

If you want to clean it up yourself, I'd say start with some metal polish (such as MAAS) and see how much that will clean her up. If that gets her where you want, you're done with cleaning. If not, you can look into hand sanding or steel wool.

As far as IDing the blade, you'd need a better shot of the stamp on the tang or at least post up what it says.

dcs, Welcome to SRP and the world of straight razors! If you would like, I can take care of that razor and get it looking like new! I'll even do the honeing for free. PM me and we'll talk. Take care and God Bless!

Mr. Poisson,

Gee thanks for the help.

Since this was my grandfather's I think it would be an honor for me to have this restored or customized. I don't think it is in too bad of shape for being so old.

This is the hallmark:

JOHN PRINCE
<L>
HAND MADE

I thank you sir.

DCS

Nice looking razor. Be sure to post some pictures after you get it back from getting its new pants and shine.