Thread: Old razor made new again

First post!

I was recently given my grandfather's Henkel (circa 1940s/50s probably) and I don't think it's seen any use in decades. No rush on the steel at all, but it isn't sharp. Can I use a stone and strop and that's it? Or is there some special voodoo to do when it's been a while since being used?

Thanks!

Hi and Welcome:

I'm sure others can give you better advice, but unless you've honed a straight before, imho the best thing to do with that razor is to send it to one of the members who can hone the razor properly. It's very easy to destroy a blade/edge unless you have a set of the right stones and much practice. By getting a good edge, you'll also be able to start shaving and have a reference point. I don't hone, but the members services page has lots who can and do it very well.

Sounds terrific to have an heirloom like that, Good Luck.

Without actually seeing the razor it's hard to advise. Depending on the condition of the edge will depend what you need to do to restore the piece and the stones you will need and how much finesse you need to bring it to shave ready condition.

If you have no experience at this you would be better served sending it out.

Hi olds, thanks! I just looked on member services, but it doesn't look like there's anybody doing it in mainland Europe, where I am. I have done business with Geo Trumpers in London before, but am unsure if they offer a honing service or not, and if it's any good. Thoughts?

Cheers!

Originally Posted by thebigspendur

Without actually seeing the razor it's hard to advise. Depending on the condition of the edge will depend what you need to do to restore the piece and the stones you will need and how much finesse you need to bring it to shave ready condition.

If you have no experience at this you would be better served sending it out.

I'll post a pic when I get home.

Here is a link to our member's map of Europe. http://straightrazorpalace.com/vbgooglemapme.php It can be found under 'Community' on the drop down menu at the top of the page. Zoom in on your location to find a member close by. Click on the member's name and you will be taken to their profile. It would probably be a good idea to find a member that was on SRP recently which would be the date next to 'Last', just below their join date. Maybe they can assist in your honing or direct you to someone they would recommend. Also I believe Neil Miller is located in Great Britain and I think he provides honing services. I PM to Neil would be the best way to contact him. Please do not post a 'Want to Buy' in the open forums as we (SRP) does not allow that type of post in the open forums. Any sales talk should be directly by PM to the poerson unless you are asking a general question like "Who provides honing services in Europe?" Good luck.

Looks like there are a few guys here in France - I'll try contacting them. Cheers!

Originally Posted by phillamb168

First post!

Or is there some special voodoo to do when it's been a while since being used?

Thanks!

There is actually some voodoo; honing razors is a dark art: http://straightrazorpalace.com/aucti...-dark-art.html

Originally Posted by thebigspendur

Without actually seeing the razor it's hard to advise. Depending on the condition of the edge will depend what you need to do to restore the piece and the stones you will need and how much finesse you need to bring it to shave ready condition.

If you have no experience at this you would be better served sending it out.

Here ya go:

I love the design on the thing. As I said, it doesn't seem to have much in the way of things wrong with it. Plus, original box FTW. Anybody know the date/origin/value/etc?

Definitely VooDoo... If you have not honed a bunch of blades, (knives, lathe chisels and the like) then you may want to consider getting one of the pros to do it. Or go get the proper stones and DIY. Spend some time in the honing section. Gotta learn sometime. Tape your spine.

Nice looking razor. I got my Henkel from my grandfather too.

Jeff