Thread: Shumate 25

Picked up a Shumate #25 today. The box is in very good condition. The blade has some light scratches not too worried about those though. The scales have two chips above the pins. I am not sure what they are made of though. They are one solid piece and I am finding it hard to tell. Any ideas while the pictures do not exactly show it, it has lines like ivory but im not too sure it is

What a nice Shumate, scales are most likely celluloid. Nice find!

I would say celluloid as well. From what I understand, pressed celluloid scales were common in that time period. Google "ivory pin test" or something similar if you want to know for sure, but I'm gonna say celluloid.

Thanks I think I will try the pin test later this week. Now I would like to know if anyone knows what colors the stamp was when it was new I would like to repaint it if possible.

Nice grab.
I have two Shumate's, love them both. Easy for me to hone also. Great shaves.
Here is a link that I used when I first started collecting, it has helped me to identify scale material. I have found it to be accurate, especially on Bakelite and celluloid.
Bakelite, Lucite, Celluloid, Catalin Identification, Reference Information and History @ Collectics: Handbags, Purses, Pins, Bangles, Bracelets, Necklaces, Earrings!

Information that I have used in ivory identification with my firearm grips.
Identify Ivory

Working Ivory

distinguish bone, ivory and celluloid

definitely celluloid, any ideas on how to find its original colors so I can repaint it.

Here is the pin test. It's quite simple.

is-it-fake

JERRY

I did the pin test it is celluloid. Thanks for the link though

LockOn,

If that's your first Shumate, you're in for a treat. I have trouble finding the larger ones. I've only seen one 6/8. Shumate made the only 4/8 I'm willing and able to enjoy a shave with. I don't like small shanks and spines, due to large hands. But I've not touched a Shumate that couldn't give a Genco or anything in the world a run for its money (apples to apples - same size/gring, etc). 'Hope it gives you smiles for decades.