Thread: WB 9/8 Restoration

Found another older razor with a similar design at the wedge, pretty cool:

Originally Posted by ace

Does anyone have any experience with shaving with blades with patina? I'm wondering whether they are more prone to rusting than blades which have been polished.

My speculation is no. I would say the patina would act as a protective layer. That is basically what rust bluing is on a gun. It is a layer of oxidation that helps protect (somewhat) against rust. Basically what you do with a rust blue is develop a very fine layer of rust on the gun then boil it in water to neutralize the rust. As long as you have black iron oxide on the surface and not red iron oxide I don't think it would increase the chances of rust.

But that is speculation on my part.

Ray

Originally Posted by ace

Does anyone have any experience with shaving with blades with patina? I'm wondering whether they are more prone to rusting than blades which have been polished.

I have a couple of blades that I have left some patina on. I keep my blades oiled and have never had an edge rust problem on the razors with patina. When honed the edge becomes very shiny and as long as you take care of them it will be ok. I have however had a razor with heavy pitting and even when oiled it would rust. But as far as just a patina (in my experience) no problems.

I love when a big old razor looks it's age. I wouldn't change a thing. Love the work!

Shaves great but cut myself this morning Somehow the pivot pin had loosened and when I was moving it into my other hand it swung down like an axe into my knuckle. Not too bad, but enough to bleed all over the place. Looks like I need to bust out the ball peen.

Originally Posted by ace

Does anyone have any experience with shaving with blades with patina? I'm wondering whether they are more prone to rusting than blades which have been polished.

I have a patina on all my vintage blades. I have heard it helps inhibit rust, but I cannot really compare since ALL mine have patina.

I can compare them to my modern customs that are polished and I'd say they are equal...but I must also back off and say I treat all mine with enough respect that (I'd hope) none will develop rust.

Sorry this is a bunch of post about nothing, but I'd say there should be no fear in finishes, they all work fine if you practice due diligence. It is really a matter of preference...and mine is to have the old look old and the new look new. I think forced patina is just as wrong as polishing a century of patina away (but thankfully, opinions vary).

I like the looks of this blade and (like others) was pleasantly surprised to see the result as is. I tip my hat to you