How easy/hard to restore this razor?

Vintage Wade and Butcher Masonic Razor - eBay (item 300272399361 end time Nov-16-08 15:13:40 PST)

I have been looking for a large wade and butcher and have found one above. I was wondering how hard would it be to restore the Masonic Symbols on the blade? Also, the wear on the spine seems to be like a lot. Is that something to worry a lot about?

I am basically looking for razors to practice restoring and honing on, but I am not just buying anything. I expect it to be a good shaver and I am also looking to get sort of a variety so I can see what kind of razors I like. So if I can get this wade and butcher for a decent amount that would be great! I am sure I will get outbid though...

Unless you are a well experienced honer I would pass on that. Not only does it have alot of uneven spine wear but the bevel has a very uneven surface. It can be honed but will take alot of work and finesse with a hone. As far as the cosmetics go it can be cleaned up but I don't know any way to refurbish the symbols short of having access to and having skill with a laser cutter.

Then there's the matter of the scales. If the chips are bad you will need to rescale it depending on how bad it might be.

There are many fish in the sea. Catch another.

+1 on the laser to restore the symbols, anything you do to remove oxidation or gook on the blade (except vibratory finishing maybe) will knock down those blade markings.

Considering the width of the spine, it would be tough to redo without taping it first, to be sure.

Without knowledge of what the above means, and a good selection of hones, I would definitely pass on that razor.

So it is probably not likely that I'll find a 6/8 or 7/8 for under $20 huh?

All I care about is getting it shave ready. Cosmetics are secondary.

It happens sometimes. Just keep putting low bids on razors, one is bound to sneak through.

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Originally Posted by mziter

So it is probably not likely that I'll find a 6/8 or 7/8 for under $20 huh?

All I care about is getting it shave ready. Cosmetics are secondary.

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It's possible, but the chances of finding a sub 20$ 7/8 are virtually nil.