Thread: Japan Woodworker Iwasaki Razors--Finally Arrived!

Originally Posted by dcarmell

I think I remember someone here describing the Iwasaki as a "double spike" razor, but interestingly, both ends of my razor are carefully muted, with a very even 45 degree line ground into the corners.

I got one of these, too, and my razor is the same, but that didn't keep me from nicking myself a few times with one end or the other.

Mine also came sharp enough to shave. Based on thebigspender's experience, I skipped the hones and gave it some laps on diamond paste. I had to push it harder through the whiskers than I thought I would. On that basis, perhaps it's not as sharp as it could be, but dang, it really left me smooth cheeks after one pass.

Got mine today- it looks like all the others. I did strop it a bit on CrOx. it passed the HHT right out of the box but after a few laps (3-2 style) it did it even better.
I tested it on one side (just couldn't wait until tomorrow AM) and wow. It was a bit intimidating but after seeing that the tip was not a spike, I settled down.
Now I think I'll sell my Tosuke. I see the difference in them and am very pleased with the Iwasaki. I'll probable put the Tosuke on classified in a few day.
David

The Iwasaki arrived on Tuesday. The workmanship is excellent. It was quite sharp when it came out of the box but not quite sharp enough in my opinion. Here is what I did to sharpen it

Iwasaki (very hard steel)
+ Lots o laps (I mean lots) on Chinese 12K (slow cutting stone)
+ CrO2 pasted paddle strop
___________________________________________

= very sharp and smooth edge = great shave =


The blade is small and easy to handle which make it easier to control. Unlike the traditional straight where the size of the blade is larger and a bit more difficult to control.

The only draw back the awkward positions you must get into while shaving certain parts of your face due to the geometry of the blade. So I am doing some yoga while I shave, big deal...

The best part about using the Iwasaki is that the ATG pass (S-N) is extremely easy and that cuts down on my shaving time.

I received mine form So last week, it is identical to the JWW Iwasakis so I feel free to post here as well. It came shave sharp although I felt it might be possible to get it even sharper. I gave it 60 laps on both linen and leather and had a great shave. As I always strive to get the best out of my razors I am going to take it to the hones and see if I can improve.

Iwasakis have 2 drawbacks: first the fairly narrow handle but I think I can get used to it, 2nd cutting edge that cannot be folded into scales.

Has anyone ever tried to fit scales on a kamisori?

I've thought about it.
The problem is you'd have to drill a hole in the handle to prevent it from slipping / falling out of the scales.
That would pretty much destroy it from a resale point of view.

I suppose you could come up with a set of scales + custom pivot that would clamp the razor, but I did not spend enough time on the idea to come up with something that is elegant and functional.

Originally Posted by Bruno

I've thought about it.
The problem is you'd have to drill a hole in the handle to prevent it from slipping / falling out of the scales.
That would pretty much destroy it from a resale point of view.

I suppose you could come up with a set of scales + custom pivot that would clamp the razor, but I did not spend enough time on the idea to come up with something that is elegant and functional.

Those are my sentiments as well. I did once see a picture of a kamisori with some sort of wooden scales, I think it was a vintage thing.
For the time being I will try and get used to it as it is. If someone comes up with a brilliant idea I might give it a try.

One thing for sure, I wish I had one to brag on.

Congrats to you all on such a fine examples of the smithing craft. Craps I'd be happy with one on their red T-shirts Are these small ones or large ones? what'd you choose?

Looking over the razor section at japan-tool I did notice some western razors on the shelf. That'd solve your handle dilemma .

It's not uncommon for traditional tools to require some work to complete by the user. The lack of a handle wrap might be a similar situation. It'd certainly make for safer use.
I'd probably lacquer the tang to protect it as it could be easily cleaned off later with thinner. I think a simple string wrap looks pretty nice when you coat it with colored lacquer and sand it back to reveal the twist pattern of the cord.
Lacquered samegawa finished in similar fashion or left bumpy, or simple rattan, etc. You could always add to bulk to the tang with veneer, paper etc under the wrap.
A fitted panel for the box will keep it from shifting about. or you could make a scabbard. I just can't see trying to westernize it as a valid approach, but whatever I suppose. If it's cool it's cool.

Kevint,

The tang is another concern. It has some blackening but that easily comes off. I have been trying to work out a solution for that as well. Rattan seems a bit thick for such a small handle. What sort of stuff is string wrap? Where can one get it?

Hi Kees, you can get rattan in nearly any size you like. I'll see if I can dig up a link but it's easy enough to search for online.

String, cord, I am referring to a twisted cotton "mason's" line. You can usually find a few different sizes in a hardware store. I have always preferred the cotton over nylon as I believe it soaks up more of the lacquer.

Maybe not now, but later you could always patinate the tang, again I'd have to hunt up the formulas, techniques for getting a nice durable black oxide coating. Low tech stuff.

lac on the tang is just to protect it from moisture as much as possible as it may be a long time before you see it again

How about a CA coat for the tang prior to wrapping it?