Thread: Swapping out scales on vintage razors?

This is probably basic, but I have not come across this subject in the Workshop stickies.

I am doing a light restore and need to replace the scales. I have considered making scales, but have been seeing some old razors locally that are going cheap because the blade is chipped, hone wear, etc. The scales on these old razors are frequently in good shape. What do I need to know regarding measurements? Or is there a thread discussing this topic someone can direct me to?

For what it is worth, I am working on a 6/8 Pipe razor.

Ok here we go


Size, try and use a set from the same size razor, it will fit both the actual width of the blade and match the width of the tang to the wedge angle..

Measurement that counts. from the Tang hole to the end of the razor needs to of course match the measurement from the pivot hole to the wedge
if this is too far off, the razor can become dangerous because it can come through the bottom of the scales


Those are the two that are pretty important if you want the razor to function correctly and be safe

It's usually quite straight forward, you would be surprised how many vintage razors of the same size such as a 6/8 are often easily transferred, when we are talking minor measurement details just try a few with a mock set up against the razor this will give you a pretty good idea.

Originally Posted by gssixgun

...try and use a set from the same size razor, it will fit both the actual width of the blade and match the width of the tang to the wedge angle..
...

Do we have a tutorial on how to work with the measurement of the tang to determine the proper wedge size and angle?

yep, trial and error...

It's a good idea to pick up several sets of old scales if you want to try this. The old Bakelite and Celluloid scales break off at the hinge pin end very easily both when removing the old pins and installing new ones. I usually look for an old set of horn or bone scales to match if I can find them.

Have fun.

Good point, Lynn. As a matter of fact, the scales that came with the razor were broken off at the pivot so someone drilled another hole and pinned it with a screw.

Alas, someone cleaned out my local source. I am on the fence concerning swapping scales or making my own.

Originally Posted by Leatherstockiings

Good point, Lynn. As a matter of fact, the scales that came with the razor were broken off at the pivot so someone drilled another hole and pinned it with a screw.

Alas, someone cleaned out my local source. I am on the fence concerning swapping scales or making my own.

It's kind of fun to make your own and you won't have a lot invested. Find some wood or acrylic and with a coping saw and some sand paper you're set! If they don't work out you can always get some others. But makes for a nice sense of accomplishment

Which of the more commonly used replacement scale materials takes to re-pinning / peening the best? I see a lot of bone and horn scales for sale at knife shows but... one wrong peen and ah S%#Te!

Chime in with recommendations!

Thanks

Originally Posted by r2razor

Which of the more commonly used replacement scale materials takes to re-pinning / peening the best? I see a lot of bone and horn scales for sale at knife shows but... one wrong peen and ah S%#Te!

Chime in with recommendations!

Thanks

G-10 you could wail on till your hearts content.
Ive been doing alot of horn scales lately mostly to match the vintage razors. Its more durable then you might think. Just remember the pinning is to attach the scales to the blade your not riveting a train tressle together. "SOFT HANDS & LIGHT TAPS"