Thread: Custom wedge blades for lather catchers

They're probably fairly easy to grind. What dimensions are they? And does the exact radius of the hollow matter functionally?

I'll have to pull out one of my blades to get you an exact measurement but they're more or less the same dimension as a modern SE. Modern SE blades work on some of these razors because some have blade stops, little metal tabs that stick out above the comb in the front of the razor that hold the blade in place. Those that don't have the tabs won't take modern SE blades.

I believe the exact radius of the hollow matters to a degree as the blade, at least the portion closest to the spine, needs to be thick enough to nestle in between the two side holders (sloppily marked in red in the photo attached). Thats why these are called wedges as they're wedged in between the two holders and then secured at the spine by a clip.

Anyone else thinking about a wootz steel SE?

Originally Posted by JP5

Anyone else thinking about a wootz steel SE?

I must ask what a wootz steel SE is as I have no idea what it is

Originally Posted by animalwithin

I must ask what a wootz steel SE is as I have no idea what it is

SE means single edge razor. Wootz is a special kind of steel that is made in a smelting crucible. It's special in the sense that because of the chemicals involved, you will get dendritic carbides in the steel that are both very pleasing aesthetically, as well as improving cutting performance. JP5 mentions it because it's what I am known for these days.

I am guessing that for something like this to work, it needs to match the dimensions of the original pretty closesly.
Do you happen to have one of those blades that is no longer shaving properly, but which I could use to use for copying?

I am curious enough that if you can send me one of these which I can keep as an example, I will try to copy it in new blade steel and send it to you as a test.
EDIT: Just to clarify and avoid complaints of sales talk on the forum: I do this one for free just out of curiosity. I only ask for shipping to be paid.

animalwithin,

THAT IS A DEAL YOU SHOULD NOT LET GET BY!!

I hope he has one! Would love to see this. Bravo Bruno!

Originally Posted by Bruno

SE means single edge razor. Wootz is a special kind of steel that is made in a smelting crucible. It's special in the sense that because of the chemicals involved, you will get dendritic carbides in the steel that are both very pleasing aesthetically, as well as improving cutting performance. JP5 mentions it because it's what I am known for these days.

I am guessing that for something like this to work, it needs to match the dimensions of the original pretty closesly.
Do you happen to have one of those blades that is no longer shaving properly, but which I could use to use for copying?

I am curious enough that if you can send me one of these which I can keep as an example, I will try to copy it in new blade steel and send it to you as a test.
EDIT: Just to clarify and avoid complaints of sales talk on the forum: I do this one for free just out of curiosity. I only ask for shipping to be paid.

Bruno, I'd me more than happy to send you one of these blades to give this a try! I'm getting another one of these razors in the next few days with one of these blades, I shall send you that one!

I'm on the edge of my seat!!

Originally Posted by Bruno

They're probably fairly easy to grind. What dimensions are they? And does the exact radius of the hollow matter functionally?

I think that you could do this Bruno.

I could do it but you would be much quicker!

Approximately 20 X 40 mm wedge from what I see. You could bend the side holders if you wanted it a little more hollow ground.