Thread: Rusty Razor

Hello. I have a Shumate Price razor that wont quit rusting on me. I think I did put oil on it the second to last time, but the light brown rust just came back. The last time, I spent about 2+ hours polishing the hell out of it, even using some slurry from my 12K stone. It was very bright and I even shaved with it. I dried it off, let it sit out and after a day, put it back into my razor drawer by itself. You guessed it, the rust came back. The handle has cracked where I tightened the rivet a tad bit too much and it is missing a small piece I can't seem to find. I hate to say it, but I'm thinking of pitching it. Any thoughts? Thanks.

Are the scales original? You may have cell rot in the scales. Until you remove them and replace them the razor will continue to rust.

Post photos of blade and scales. Include some close ups so members can help identify the problem.

Originally Posted by bouschie

Are the scales original? You may have cell rot in the scales. Until you remove them and replace them the razor will continue to rust.

Post photos of blade and scales. Include some close ups so members can help identify the problem.

+1 to that

undefinedundefinedI believe they are original. I like the scales, but I think one of the pin areas are too far gone to keep as is. Will do.

I would remove the scales. Clean the blade with 400 grit wet/dry sand paper and WD-40. Polish with a good metal polish. Let it sit for a week or two. If no further put new scales on it and continue to enjoy.

It definitely looks like cell rot, from what I see on the blade

Those type scales are notorious for cell rot. As stated, remove the scales and replace with new ones, preferably something beside celluloid. Throw those original scales away as they are contagious and the cell rot can spread to scales on other razors. Once you replace the original scales and clean the blade you should be fine.

+1 to most likely cell rot. When you remove the scales, put them in a ziploc bag with a piece of untarnished scrap iron/steel and see what you get after a few days.

Cheers, Steve

I meant to say that it is a Shumate Prince. lol. Ok, sounds like the only plan of action. The left side scale is about unrepairable, anyhow. I'd like to try my hand at buying, making and fitting another pair of nice-looking scales. Thanks for the direction.

Just curious. Is it a St. Louis Shumate or Austin TX? If Austin TX, they are desirable by some members and hard to find.