Thread: Long Term Use and Storage of Straight Razors

Hi There,

I am a newbie on this. I recently purchased a good size (roughly 16) of new and old straight razors. I plan on using a 7 razor rotation (one per day) and I am in a situation where I can't use all of these razors. I plan on changing my rotation every 2 to 4 months. Does this sound okay for a rotation plan?

As well, what is an ideal solution for long term storage (e.g. more than 2 months)? I understand some people put on a film of oil on the blade and scales, then they place it in a storage container (away from sunlight and water). Is this enough to prevent rust and keep the blade in good condition? Take care.

You should put a film of oil on the blade -- not on the scales!

Yes, an oil film will keep rust away for a long time. There are long threads on what kind of oil to use, but probably _any_ mineral-based oil will work. Don't use vegetable or nut oils -- they harden and go rancid.

I'll leave "Tuf-Glide" to someone else.

Charles

I put some gun oil on the blades and store them away in razor rolls, never had a problem.

Originally Posted by cpcohen1945

Don't use vegetable or nut oils -- they harden and go rancid.

How about camellia oil?

Sy

Thanks for the input. How should one take care of the scales (e.g. celluoid, wood, horn, bone) for the long term?

Ballistol was recommended to me by a SRP member and I have found it perfect for my use here in Florida. Give it a try, I think you'll be happy with the protection it provides.

On the scales I have never had a problem with the only exception being that one time many years ago I was introduced to cell rot. This is the breakdown of chemicals in celluloid scales that releases a gas that will rust the blade in a heartbeat. Just be sure that you inspect your blades on a regular basis. on the blades, any gun oil will work for long term storage. Best, John

In general scales don't need anything in storage. Ivory and horn like an application of oil maybe 1x a year but you just wipe it on and wipe it off after 20.min or so. A good product for long term storage is A.G Russell No Rust. It's not an oil but a silicon based preparation made specifically for knives and guns. I've used it and it works great.

Originally Posted by gnoils

How about camellia oil?

Sy

I had a problem with camellia oil even though I have seen it recommended. It hardened much like cpcohen's description of veggie and nut oils. It also ran off the blade in spots, leaving it unprotected, and pooled in others, hardening and leaving stains that had to be buffed out. I use a very new, oily silicon cloth now to wipe all my razors down every 4 or 5 months and do far not a single problem.

Silicone sleeves from the superior shave