Thread: how do pits effect a blade?

Something odd happened today: I recieved my first ebay straight razor in the mail. First thing I noticed was that it was probably a 3/8 size; I'm used to a 5/8 and expected it to be about that size from the pics, but it ended up as a 3/8. Not a problem. After I buffed the tarnish off the blade, I noticed that the blade was quite sharp, sharp enough to touch up my earlier shave (DOVO) with no discomfort. Hone wear was even and light. The next thing I noticed was that there is definite pitting on the body of the blade near the toe and spine; so the upper left corner if the scales are fully extended to the right.

So the question: how does pitting that is remote in relation to the edge effect the razor as a whole? Is it worth sending to get fixed (I do not have the tools to do it myself) ?

I'm the wrong guy to answer, as this is not my area of interest, but . . . I don't think it will effect the edge at all, or the razor that much either. I might try polishing into them a bit because I would suspect that over the years they wil grow as moisture collects in them.

I suspect the blades will only last about 60 to 80 years in that condition, but I don't think you'll care by then.

As long as the pitting is not near the edge it is a cosmetic issue. If it doesn't bother you it does no harm. If it is in the edge it can micro chip as you hone. It is always a good idea to email a seller and ask for the measurement from spine to edge. Most don't know enough to mention it and it is hard to tell from photos. I have been surprised a time or two as well.

The only issue here is since its a 3/8s you don't really have that much room to work. A 3/8s is really designed for trimming not actually shaving the whole face. If you can use it to shave your whole face I take my hat off to you. I find with a razor that size I have a hard time holding on to the thing. If you can just soften the pits and clean any rust out of them and keep the blade well oiled between use that's probably what I would do unless you one of these guys who demands perfection. If thats the case you would have to sand them out.

Unless it's right on the edge or near to it, pitting is just cosmetic. The only thing you have to worry about it keeping it dry though. Those little pits can hold water if the razor is not dried properly, which can lead to it spreading (much like a cavity in a tooth actually!).

Dave

Thanks guys!