Thread: Old Sheffield Wedge info request

Hello people,

I recently got this bad boy. Sadly no manufacturer info on it. I estimate it to be around 1820-1840. You guys have any guess?

not a clue but looks like mine - could be made by anyone of the Sheffield companies

No help here either but welcome to SRP. It is definitely old and looks like a Sheffield blade. Good luck in your search. Someone will probably chime in with more info.

I have that exact razor

I dig those red scales..

Those are typical old 'cottage industry' razors made by apprentices in their off-time as related by Neil Miller.
They were often compensated by allowing them to use facilities to make things for extra money and experience.

Rather crude wedges, roughly finished with no maker's name.
IMO, hit and miss as to quality. Bargain basement stuff.
I can advise to put it to the hones first before spending lots of time. Could be a winner?

thank you guys, I'm still seeking some more info about it if possible

Originally Posted by assad

thank you guys, I'm still seeking some more info about it if possible

I can appreciate the desire for more info, but from the fair warning department: Tom's post above pretty much sums up all that is likely to be discovered about it. The shape, grind, and tang stamp can give some hints as to where and when it was made, but other than that...? It is virtually impossible to identify the individual who made razors like this or the workshop from which it originated.

If you want to use it, then clean it up, get an edge on it (this will require a fair amount of removal of material to get to good steel by the looks of it), and try it out. As was mentioned previously, it could be a winner, so you never know. Might be worth a shot. If it isn't intended for use, then just enjoy it and embrace the mystery.

Agreeing with Tom, above. The maker of the blade is likely not identifiable.

Ironically, there's a better chance of identifying the manufacturer of the scales. If you get out a light and a magnifying glass (or feel like drilling out the pins), you can very often find the initials of the die-sinker who made the mold for them.

It's also interesting to note that horn scales dyed that particular red color are pretty uncommon. The only one I own is likely a counterfeit Sheffield -- that is, a razor made somewhere else, but stamped 'Sheffield' for the prestige.

Thanks I'll fully restore it and make some custom scales maybe some burlwood, macassar ebony or snakewood. From my experience restoring older straights I'm almost sure it will get a nice butter smooth edge but we'll see.