Thread: Can this be made shave-ready?

Hi folks: I'm new here and I've been getting myself pretty psyched up about straight razor shaving--and I'm certain I've come to the right place. I've not yet shaved with a straight and I'm slowly piecing together the supplies -- right now I have close to nothing, but I'm getting there.

Anyway, in my newfound zeal I decided to pick up an "eBay Special" and from what I see this thing is probably capable of cleaning up nicely, but I guess I'd like some expert opinions. It is an old seeming "C. Freidr Ern / Wald Germany" brand razor, a particular line called "Vanadium." Plastic scales, and a blade that is relatively straight, no chips, nicks, or really any noticable edge problems at all. I has quite a patina on it, as well as a little rust in spots, and some hone wear.

Pictures below. The question is: can this be made a decent shaver? And perhaps, how should I do it (or better, who can I get to do it properly)?


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Why yes it can! You'll have a few options soon. Welcome to the forum.

That one could be made shave ready pretty easily, and most ERNs, I've found to be great.

I completely agree that the razor will be very good once restored. Now, for restoration info... First, peruse the specific forum on SRP for some info; look for posts by Vladsch, Urleebird, and Joe Chandler. If you want a reference, of sorts, then go to Bill Ellis' (aka Urleebird) website (http://www.billysblades.com), and order his straight razor restoration CD. Good luck!

Actually this razor would do well with a couple of Maas polishings and a good honing and cleaning of the handle. Maas will work on the handle as well. It will always have some pitting unless re-ground, but should end up being a decent shaver.

Have fun.

Lynn

I wouldn't be so fast to send it out. Some elbow grease and polishing and the time spent will be well rewarded.

Thanks for your input folks. I really appreciate the fast replies. It looks like I'll be getting me some Maas and going to work on this bad boy myself. I'll let you know how it turns out if I don't somehow ruin it (which may seem difficult now, but clearly you haven't seen me work).