Thread: Old style forged blades

As I learn about blacksmithing parts for muzzleloaders I got to thinking about making older straight razors. I need to find out if the steel used to make ML parts and the steel in a straigh razor of the time where compatible. Granted heat treat would be different, posably (still researching this) but may not be that far off.

With my interests in colonial stuff lately I find that there are not as many razors available in useable conditions (and would one want to risk it). So I figured with my building interest in making the ML parts I could also forge some blades in the pre 1800's style and see if that worked for me.

I'm waiting for some more books to show up at the library to see what base steel or iron was used to forge parts from. I would think the same equipment could be used to make these blades and parts with.

This will be an interesting thing to figure out and try. My first attempts are going to be based off my Clark n Hall Warrented as it's my oldest razor. Till I find some early colonial razors to base designs off of. I'd imagine Pins and collers are going to have to be made as well, as well as being very distinct for the era.