Thread: New Hart Steel Oxidation Spots

Hi All,

I just received a brand new Hart Steel razor, took my first shave, then made sure to properly dry/oil the razor before storing it. However, during my maintenance (this was after my very first shave), I noticed these weird oxidation spots on the spine. Are these expect after the very FIRST shave with a new razor? Should I be worried? Thanks in advance!

Welcome to SRP. If the oxidation wasn't on the spine before the shave I suspect there was moisture present after drying. Even with oil moisture can get between it and the metal. Looks like it is more than just water spots from the photo. You could try metal polish, such as flitz or maas on a paper towel, but I don't thing those will be easily removed without a trace.

I agree with Jimmy and I don't think they happened over nite. I would get it removed ASAP. How long have you had the razor?

http://straightrazorpalace.com/begin...er-2011-a.html


There is a Beginners tips article I did some time back that might help you out

I find my Hart shows rust far faster than my other razors. Maybe the steel? I don't know. I do know it has to be oiled even if I use it every day.

IIRC it is 01 and that steel is sensitive to moisture in the air and what not. IME.

I find that Flitz takes stains right off of the Hart. For some reason Flitz works but others don't.

Skin chemistry can be acidic or simply leave moisture just from touch. In that case the last thing to touch your razor should be an oily rag .

Thanks for the reply guys! I definitely will read the beginner's guide.

The picture I showed you was after the very first shave. Literally 5 minutes after. I took the razor out, inspected it, shaved, then inspected it again. I didn't see the spots at the beginning (I may not have looked too hard at the spine), so it may have occurred quickly during my shave.

As for oiling it daily, is there a specific oil you guys recommend? Thanks again!

If you do the daily oiling thing, I'd suggest an oil that displaces water such as Ballistol. Oiling steel with ordinary oils can trap moisture against the steel so why take a chance?

Personally, I do not oil a blade except in the case of prepping one for long term storage. I simply dry the blade carefully, prop it up against something - blade open 60 degrees - for "a while", then put it away. I have stored them in VCI gun socks for many years and recently found that small one razor sized sleeves of the same material are available. I've been using those for the razors in active rotation for the last year or so and have not seen any signs of rust or spotting so far.

rs,
Tack