Thread: Optimal scale thickness??

Originally Posted by pixelfixed

Makes perfect sense,you rareley see old ivory scales more than about .080,but most have lead wedges.
was there perhaps a science to balancing a razor?

That, I want to know more about!

The scales are at say aprox 90 degs to the blade when in use,so you have some counter balance of sorts,is it of any import?
I do not think scales can be to thin within reason,but overly thick scales just look bad IMO.

Overly thick and overly high, can also get in the way while stropping..

Look at the Vintage razors at the pivot point, open the razor to strop, note how it all flows together ??? and is comfortable to the fingers??? see the way they made the fit work ???
This is a spot that can really make or break a scale set for function...


Balance... Try stropping a Wapi or TI with SS scales and then ask me about balance hehehe

Was just to say that when stropping I really want them well balanced.
Some tangs also feel totally wrong when stropping, hard to turn around easily.

I tend to go ~ .1 on most , the G10 I go thinner because G10 is very stiff and I want more flex.
On smaller razors I go thinner as well, thicker scales on such blades feel a bit awkward in hand.

Thx all,ran my material to about .105,after hand sanding I figure will be about .095 ish,well within the realm of what others use.

Don't ask me how thick, I dunno. The one that is celluloid is obvious. (2nd from top in case it is not) They sure made the ivory scales thinner than the custom guys do nowadays. These are old Heljes and a J. Rodgers & Sons .....

I was thinking of ordering wood scales to make my own for restoratons and took carving or widdling or w/e you call making pictures in the scales and scale thickness into account. So I imagine depending on what your doing it could vary a good bit.

i just start sanding until it looks right

Originally Posted by gooser

i just start sanding until it looks right

best post yet on the subject.thx gooser