Thread: Before/After - Did I do the right thing?

I started a post (Junk Shop Finds) last weekend after buying a bunch of SRs in an clock junk-shop, one of which was marked 99 H. Greenberg on one side and Hand Forged Solinger-Germany on the other side with nice trim on each end of the scales, but unfortunately there are 2 huge chunks broken out of the blade edge.

I was contemplating removing the blade and replacing it with one that was part of my purchase that was marked L. S. Du Bois Sons & Co - PADUCAH KY and H Bonker & Co with a tree on the other side - On the blade Face is etched "OUR OWN" - Hollow Ground Razor, which came with the scales broken off (one scale is whole, the other in pieces).

The more I thought about it I figured maybe I should just leave it with its original blade, so, instead, using a flap disk on a grinder, I ground the blade down past the broken out chunks, while being careful not to allow the blade to heat up. Then I took it to the hones for sharpening to Share Ready condition.

Now I am wondering if I did the right thing or not? I turned it into a usable razor, or at least something that looks like it should be usable as I haven't tried it yet, but I wasn't sure if this is the right way to go. Should I have just left it as it was?

The horn scales, with what appears to be sterling silver trim, are in perfect shape. I just hated to see it end up in a draw as a seemingly collectable item.

There will be different viewpoints on this. Like:
- Dump the thing because it's over
- Keep it as historical collectors piece
- Try to make it shave

I personally opt for number 3 when ever possible. But for a razor that is so badly damaged I wouldn't have taken the risk. You on the other hand have taken that not one but two steps further - and I like that. And if it really shaves decently .. hey, what do you want more? Another one saved.

The issue with trying to hone that thin blade with the same spine thickness It had at 6/8ths is the angle will be way off. In my opinion you should save the scales and start searching ebay for a blade from the same maker in better condition.

I have a couple of STR8S in that condition (bought like that: I had to buy 7 for 12 Euros just to get a John Barber in great conditions), they are great below the nose and to get perfect mustaches. I think in the past it was quite common to regrind razors to keep on using them, and so the spine is usually thin in similar pieces. I have only one blade that has not been reground properly, but it is not a problem for shaving: I just have to hone it more often then the others. The spine wear area is getting larger and larger, I guess I'll get a mini-wedge sooner or later

The scales are celluloid.

Anyhow when you're doing something for yourself, then it's up to you if it's the right thing. I'd find a new blade for it, but that's JMHO. It's your opinion that really matters here.