Some very old Greaves

I have a thing for Greaves. Just got these two in hand. One is quite old, predating the addition of his sons on the tang stamp. By style I would put it around ~1800-1810. Not from his very early period, but still cool to have one this old. The scales are not tortoise but are some of the better dyed horn I've handled. The second is 1830-37, and is in incredible condition. I just polished the blade, it and the scales have their original finish.

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Like many I've seen from this period, the wedge has 3 holes drilled in it. I'm not sure what the purpose of this is, but I've seen it on at least 5 or so razors.

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Just a thought, could the extra holes in the wedge be to make it lighter and more balance but still robust enough to do the job?

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Originally Posted by RezDog

Just a thought, could the extra holes in the wedge be to make it lighter and more balance but still robust enough to do the job?

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Not sure. The wedge is so thin anyway I wouldn't think it would make that much of a difference. It's not something cosmetic, as I've seen it on ones with black scales too, and you can only see it when taking those apart.

All the same they are in amazing condition and have provided a great ponder at the same time, what's not to like about that!

Both are striking razors. I hope I am still looking good when I am that age.
Pardon my ignorance, but was number 2 part of a set?

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Originally Posted by Leatherstockiings

Both are striking razors. I hope I am still looking good when I am that age.
Pardon my ignorance, but was number 2 part of a set?

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Likely a pair.

Could have been to conserve lead so they could keep more material

Very nice razors. I took apart an old razor that had lead or pewter melted into a couple spots at the wedge. Looked like it was added to give weight for balance cause without it the razor was blade heavy. I think I still have the scales. I will try to dig them out.

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Originally Posted by DennisBarberShop

Could have been to conserve lead so they could keep more material

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Very good point.