Thread: Can razors get dull from non usage?

I once heard that if you let a razor/knife sit unused for a long period of time without stropping, the edge will get dull. I don't blame you for laughing at this point, as I have a collection of tactical folders/pocket knives that have kept sharp for years of sitting in a knife roll. A razor have a much finer edge though. Could this be possible? I've been seriously thinking of shaving with a feather straight w/disposable blades. I just don't want my vintage collection to go neglected and "lose their mojo". Thanks for any input.

Most of my razors sit for weeks and months, but they are just as sharp when I use them again. This, of course, assumes proper storage conditions.

I would say if the edge were to oxidize or corrode at all due to improper care, that would be the only thing I could think of.

Corrosion never sleeps and it will attack edges so I apply a thin coat of Break Free Gun oil on tools and razors after use and have no worries regarding edges or surface corrosion even for long periods.

i would think that a preshave good stropping would remove any possible corrision.

If you strop well after shaving and have proper dry dry dry storage as mentioned above all should be well. I would say if an edge sat for decades that oxidation and or patina may start to degrade an otherwise perfect edge... Stropping on fabric followed by leather may be enough to bring it back, but worst case I would imagine a touch up on a finisher may be needed. If you need more then that you did something wrong while storing......

I would know though, I use my razors for the most part... I also have never allowed a shave ready razor sit around for any long period of time... What I do know is what I have experienced from purchasing vintage razors- a few were 'sharp' but not shave ready, so bevel set but needed finishing, most need bevel reset, but I bet this was bc they were not very sharp to begin with prior to storage..

Originally Posted by One2mny

i would think that a preshave good stropping would remove any possible corrision.

Sure oxides can be removed, but what has said corrosion done to the edge ? Small pits usually become small chips.

I would like to think that mine are in bad shape because of a lack of use over the last couple of years...I am however smarter than that...it's because when I first got in the hobby, I beat them up pretty bad!

Originally Posted by CStevens

I once heard that if you let a razor/knife sit unused for a long period of time without stropping, the edge will get dull. I don't blame you for laughing at this point, as I have a collection of tactical folders/pocket knives that have kept sharp for years of sitting in a knife roll. A razor have a much finer edge though. Could this be possible? I've been seriously thinking of shaving with a feather straight w/disposable blades. I just don't want my vintage collection to go neglected and "lose their mojo". Thanks for any input.

Great question! I was just thinking of asking this the other day!

I received a brand new DOVO Bismarck from a guy who bought it a year ago from here, it was honed, he said he tried it once, didn't like it, and put it away. A year later, it arrived at my house after I purchased it, and it was definitely very sharp, but a bit harsh.

So that exact thought went through my mind, can a razor dull if not used for a year or so!?!

Once again, proof that there is no such thing as a stupid question, only the question you don't ask!

Cheers!

I have razors I haven't used in years and when I use them they shave a good as they ever did.It's all about taking good care of them.