Spine taping is done for a few reasons, The main ones been to preserve the spine against wear, or to correct a worn spine that doesn't sit well.Quote:
Most are taping the spine to set the bevel.
To my mind the tape raises the spine off the stone making a steeper angle then they remove the tape lowering the angle to the stone.
This lowering puts the blade contact behind the edge of the bevel that was set by the tape.
I don't tape my spines at all unless the razor actually needs it. It makes life easier when you touch them up after a few months use. That been said none of my razors are show quality.
The hardness of a razor is directly affected by the original temper of the steel, as well as it's carbon content. Vintage steel tends to have a lower carbon content but the hardness and temper of the blades can vary wildly. The final toughness of the steel doesn't always reflect the ability to hold an edge. Stainless is very tough, very hone resistant, but hasn't got the same edge retention in a lot of cases.
A good bevel check is the turn the razor edge up, and roll it in the light. A badly set bevel will reflect from the cutting edge, a well set one won't.
If the bevel is set correctly, and everything looks right and it still won't shave then start to look at the stone. A nice close up of the edge would be nice, to show us the scratch pattern from the hone. It may also be worth picking up some paste/Diamond spray if everything looks right and it's still not sharp, Or you could try 10 stropping strokes on the stone to see if it brings it up. I feel that is avoiding the problem and fixing it with a bit of a bodge, Rather than getting it right.
Also did you strop the blade after honing, It may improve the performance.
Some sellers have no idea, Others very much know the razors and know what people will pay. It takes a few months of looking before you can spot a seller that has a gem and doesn't have a clue how to sell it, These are the auctions you pounce on. It's worth just reading, and remembering brands. You will at some point start to be able to gauge age and condition and take decent gambles on poor pictures. Often these can have huge rewards if you are willing to take a potential loss. Antique stores, fairs, and garage sales should also be visited.Quote:
Looking at the straight razors on E bay is confusing as heck. Certainly some sellers prise their goodies unreasonably