Thread: Union Cutlery Co. Magic Straight Razor

I was hoping some of you could provide me some feedback on this razor. My grandmother gave it to me; it belonged to her brother, my great uncle.

It is a Union Cutlery Co. "MAGIC" straight razor. I don't know how old it is, but I guess it was made before they changed their name to Ka-bar in the fifties. I believe it is a 5/8 hollow grind (although I don't have it here with me.) The blade looks nice and sharp, and no noticeable chips or nicks. There is a little bit of pitting, but not close to he blade. And there is some green gunk and soap scum around the pins. I would like to restore it and shave with it.

I was curious about the scales. They are a yellow translucent plastic (celluloid?) I was wondering if these are possibly replacement scales, as every picture I have seen of Union Cutlery razors have opaque scales. I am considering replacing the scales with new ones, but I probably won't do so if they are original.

So, if any of you can clue me in to this razor, I would appreciate it. I will probably send it out for honing/cleaning, although if I replace the scales I might try to do that myself. Thanks for your help!