Thread: Santa came!

So one of the things with those scales is they could be celluloid plastic. If they are you should replace them with acrylic plastic scales. They celluloid ones will break down over time and the off gassing will rot the metal on the blade. Do a site search on cell rot. The old tortoise scales are some of the worst for doing that. I would not mess with the plastic at all if it is celluloid.

They look good Alan.
Is the blade hitting or dragging against the scales when you open and close them?
Is there rust (orange/red) on the blade?
I've had good success using a heat lamp for straightening scales, but you must unpinn them to do it properly.
Dont put them in the oven!!!!, they will either curl up or shrink.


Its a temperature sensitive deal, too hot and they melt.
IMHO have someone replace the scales, unless you can.
Save the old scales!!! , there are threads in the work shop on how to remove and install the inlay onto new scales. I did a set this year, and am pleased with the results.

I know you at least have the tool to pinn them together with. [emoji6]

fantastic heirloom! so awesome that they are going to stay in the family. What a great gift!

Some close ups of the Sansouci

As stated by other members, these scales are celluloid and to be safe should really be replaced. If you do decide to try and straighten them, don't use boiling water. If you do, the scales will turn a whitish colour and you will then have to sand them back. Use water that you can dip your finger in for a second or so without getting burnt. That said, as others have suggested, if you are inexperienced in razor repair best not to practice on a razor that is important to you. Good luck

Originally Posted by puketui41

As stated by other members, these scales are celluloid and to be safe should really be replaced. If you do decide to try and straighten them, don't use boiling water. If you do, the scales will turn a whitish colour and you will then have to sand them back. Use water that you can dip your finger in for a second or so without getting burnt. That said, as others have suggested, if you are inexperienced in razor repair best not to practice on a razor that is important to you. Good luck

Scales have already been removed and placed in a ziplock, they will be replaced and am already in discussions to have the work done by someone competent. Would love to do it myself but realized it will be years before I feel even remotely good enough