Thread: Pair of Japanese style razors w western grind

I just finished a little experiment in trying a couple of improvements in my process of making razors like this. These are 15/16 in width, and have a western style symmetrical grind combined with a Japanese handle style. The balance point is right at the shoulder. Made from O2. I know putting 2 razors in the same picture makes it nearly impossible to capture both in the best way possible, but since I made both at the same time, I wanted to put them in the same picture.

EDIT: Those lighter color smudges are places where the balistol oil is on a bit thicker. I forgot to wipe them down.

Beautiful Work! If you ever need someone to test shave one or both of them, let me know!

Looking good!

Cheers.

very cool, I like a western grind "kamisori" myself. how do you like the o2?

I like the flow with both. Nice job.

Originally Posted by silverloaf

very cool, I like a western grind "kamisori" myself. how do you like the o2?

Imo it's the best steel there is for a razor blade. Better than O1 or other steels.
That doesn't think I think it's the best general purpose steel. For applications where the edge sees abuse and needs abrasion resistance and strength, I'd choose O1. But for a razor's edge, it is perfect. The feedback I've gotten from skilled honers and customers is very good.

I couldn't find it here in the usa, must be more popular over your way? anyhow, I do like using o1, have a good bit of blanks set aside, cant find time to finish roughing out the hollows prior to ht. I read the o2 is nice in a pattern weld, etches real dark, have you tried doing any of that yet?

I heard about O2 being hard to find in the US. Apparently, it's still available here although I have to say not all steel suppliers carry it. Besides, there are very few 'small scale' steel suppliers for knifemakers in Europe. The ones there are usually carry only the commonly used steel, or only certain dimensions. I've found a large steel supplier who is kind enough to sell in 'small quantities'. Small being having an order size of at least 200$. Really friendly people.

O1 is definitely good steel, but the tungsten makes it more suitable for heavy duty applications. The same tungsten also makes it harder to grind / hone. I've found O2 to produce better edges while at the same time being easier to work.

It etches up very dark as well, and when welded with stainless it produces very contrasting dark / light patterns.

well I guess if you are able to make use of that much steel its not a bad minimum. my orders usually run $50-100 but if I knew id use all the steel in a timely manner itd definitely be worthwhile.
I appreciate the nature of your reply, cant beat hands on experience and opinion but when theres a lack of being able to do so the next best thing is getting the opinion from those who know! and you certainly do, loving to see your work

Those look nice. they seem to have a more upward angle of the tang/tail than most. The ergonomics seem to be most favorable for shaving to me.