Thread: Unidentified razor, need some help

So, I got a razor for 10 bucks at the local antique store, and I'd love to see if there's an ID or a general opinion about the quality going around. I'll post pictures soon...

It's got wood scales, with a two hinge pin configuration. The scales have a lot of wear on them, but are holding up. I plan to learn a little about restoring on it.

The blade is really heavy, I mean REALLY heavy. It's actually got the words "HOLLOW GROUND" on the blade with a bowl or something in between the two words, and the blade is a round point. It's stamped with Joseph Smithson Sheffield England on one side, and nothing on the other.

It was in fairly spotty shape, but some polishing and a good amount of stropping have put it back into shave-ready condition. For the amount of work to simply get it shave-ready, I was pretty amazed; I had expected to do MUCH more.

If anyone knows what kind of razor it is, I'd very much appreciate it!

Karl

Some pics would be helpful..

Sure it's not Joseph Smith & Sons? If so, 1825 - 1953.

Regards,
Neil

Hey, got some images!

Razor and case


Razor out of case and open


Incredibly sharpened blade and stamp



I do believe it says Joseph Smith & Sons.

Any ideas?

You've got yourself a goood shaver, thats for sure. Most Sheffield blades are. this one would be dated somewhere between 1891 and 1920 probably.

I LOVE Sheffield steel.

Any ideas on replace the scales?

Originally Posted by midgho

Any ideas on replace the scales?

They're just a little bug eaten. I would live with it and polish them up.

Otherwise, there are plenty of people who will make you new scales. You can even buy ready made ones from some of the online stores advertising on the website. Or, you can make them yourself. Theres tutorials in the workshop section.

sand those scales a little, oil them with either neetsfoot or mineral oil and buff them... the blade should be a very good shaver