Thread: Mission accomplished - M3 Mokume Gane black/white

I had a mission and that was to be able to make my own razor to shave with. My motto is, if you even think of trying, just do it.

First and foremost I would like to thank everyone that shares their knowledge and wisdom at SRP with a special thanks to Bob Allman, Alex (Philadelp), Mike Blue and our very own Lynn. They have been such sports, helpful and patient answering all my (technical) questions. People I look up to for their knowledge, talent and truth be told. Top in their field of expertise. One thing I've learned through my latest journey is that the premium you pay for a custom doesn't even come close to or reflect all the hours and time spent into making one. They have definitely gotten my respect. Even more than before.

The steel used is 1095. It was stress relieved, heat treated at 1475F, quenched and followed by two tempering cycles at 400F, all with zero issues. It's a near wedge 13/16. Cutting edge is 2.80". I made myself a longer tang and monkey tail so I can comfortably use my fingers any way I desire to hold it. Mirror polished. Jimps. I honed it up and had a perfect WTG, XTG and ATG BBS. No complaints.

The scales are derivative of Mokume Gane which is a mixed-metal laminate with distinctive layered patterns. First made in Japan.

They made M3 Mokume Gane which is a new composite material made out of contrasting M3 metals (*Ferrous and Non-Ferrous Metals) which share the visual characteristics, the wood grain of Mokume-Gane for a fraction of the price. It's made of 95% real metal that has been atomized down to the molecular level and combined with special chemical binders. M3 stands for "Macro Molecular Metal".

*Copper, Bronze, Brass, Stainless Steel, Iron, Aluminum, Nickel Silver, Zinc, White Bronze

It cuts, sands and works just like most of our scale materials used. It does polish up to a high glossy shine with metal polish. It's a bit messy when sanding as the metal particles fly and stick to everything. It comes in different patterns and color combinations.

Tapered wedge is black horn.

I still have lots to learn moving forward and as all the experts told me. Practice, practice, practice. But for now I'm extremely happy and most important. I'm having fun!

Could see the writing on the wall my brother...

This is beautiful on so many levels...

Congratulations on taking your work to a new level

I'm am awe struck ! In the true sense of the word. I have a feeling that the Max Sprecher brand will soon be as in demand as any of the customs heretofore available.

You truly have taken it to the next level Max. A long way from that Koeller Gun Metal I bought from you years ago when you were first starting out. Still shaving impeccably BTW.

That is a classy beautiful razor. You are a great craftsman.

Charlie

Wow, Well done Max. That is Classy,beautiful, elegant, and whole host of other words that escape my vocabulary.

It's just incredible what a man on a mission can do.

Absolutely Beautiful Max! So now what can't you do with razors? lol

To shave with a razor that you made with your own hands. That's exactly what got me started. That razor is now more treasured by you than anything else you own, am I right. It is a special feeling that is hard to describe.
As usual, beautiful work Max...a word of caution though...it is hard to improve if your first attempt is perfect!

Bob @ OCD Razors

Fantastic Max. I am very happy to see you get to do this. Your work like our other master craftsmen here will always be of the first order. Congratulations.

Can't say anything that hasn't already been said . But, the razor is truly Outstanding!

Originally Posted by boballman

As usual, beautiful work Max...a word of caution though...it is hard to improve if your first attempt is perfect!

Bob @ OCD Razors

Thats exactly what I was thinking, its a masterpiece.