Thread: Got a loupe...

30x with a light so I can look at wee things up close. I've seen pros look at the edge with loupes when honing, maybe when bevel setting? What are you looking for?

LOL I've been wanting one too. I got a kick out of this though - "okay I got this.. now what do I do with it?"

Originally Posted by ats200

LOL I've been wanting one too. I got a kick out of this though - "okay I got this.. now what do I do with it?"

Exactly! So far I've examined the heck out of a $20 bill and a few records...there's a ton of information in that groove.

I've just gotten to the point where I can acceptably set the bevel and hone to shave ready...but I'm a way from really having a "feel" for it. I'll get there. But I thought it would be good to get a visual reference.

Now, let's have a close up look at the tips of silvertip...

You'll know what you're looking for when you see it mate...Trust me.

Mick

nice loupe. where'd you find it?

I have two like that one and use it to track the edge during the honing progress or to take a look at
a problem edge. They are great. 2 for $13 on Amazon.

Originally Posted by normbal

nice loupe. where'd you find it?

$5.97 at Widgetsupply.com Here's a link:

Widget Supply 25mm 30x Chrome Teardrop Jewelers Loupe, Illuminated

I use a x60 loupe for razors and all sorts, do you ever get those nasty tiny metal splinters from drywall screws and the like, you know the ones you can't see but catch on your clothes, and are as painful as...........? Well they look like girders through my loupe!

You are looking for things that should not be there.

Things like chips and flat areas and tears and cracks and signs of rust and uneven areas of the bevel.

Magnification can tell you many bad things about the razor but can't tell you much about it being shave ready or even being a good razor period.

Originally Posted by thebigspendur

You are looking for things that should not be there.

Things like chips and flat areas and tears and cracks and signs of rust and uneven areas of the bevel.

Magnification can tell you many bad things about the razor but can't tell you much about it being shave ready or even being a good razor period.

I use mine every time I detail my razors. It really is amazing what you can learn about each razor by seeing what is not visible to the naked eye.
I remember seeing grind marks on the point of one razor when they determining what type of point it was to have.
I can also see if the edge is from the factory if its been honed subsequently.
Some seemingly insignificant pitting looks like the grand canyon up close.
If you have a decent loop I would challenge any razor owner to examine a razor that they think is fine.
My guess is that you will be surprised by what you see.
ps most loops claiming huge magnification on eBay are not legit. Trusted brand names cost $60.00+ for a real triplet.