Thread: Replacing the scales

I have a few razors that need their scales to be replaced. This sparks an important question....

1) Where can I buy the scales? In addition to a classic black scale, I would like some fun looking scales as well.

Thanks!

Mike

Try this site: Razor Scales & Pin kits

Although pre-made scales MAY fit, scales are and were generally made to fit a particular blade.
IMHO it would be best to make the scales or have them made by someone who has the blade in hand.
This is unless the blade is a Dovo or TI etc. and you are purchasing appropriate replacement scales.
If not it is a crap shoot as to if and how well they will work.

There was a thread about this not that long ago. I can't find it to put up a link. Basically the pivot pin to the wedge has to be the same in order for the blade to fit properly. There is also the issue of blade width at the wedge as well. They are not quite like socks. I have never seen measurements on scale ads so I guess if you asked or shopped by brand as pfries suggested

This was a mistake I made when I started fixing up my Dubl Ducks. I made a few sets of scales only to find out some didn't work. Even razors made by the same manufacture,same model, require a special fit for each razor. The blades are different lengths and widths and the pivot,,,,well it could be different also. You can swap scales out and use them but the fit is not always right. And then what if you buy all the stuff and the tang is slightly bent? Your razor will never close in the center without adjusting the scales. If your going to learn that you might as well learn it all :<0)

Drop into your local sign writer and see if they have any offcuts of acrylic - normally they give the stuff away - it's fun to play with and it doesn't matter if you stuff it up

Mike as said above buying pre made scales is a crap shoot at best. Sooner or later you'll want (or need) to make scales yourself - no time like the present!

Great idea going to a sign shop so scrounge some acrylic. Alternately dig around for a few pieces of wood (any will do for practice) and try your hand at designing and making some. If you make a set you like, pick up some 1/8th inch planks of wood at a hobby store and replicate what you've done for use. Just be sure that if you get pen blanks that you get something that's at least 6 inches long - pen blanks are normally 4 or 5 inches and that just won't work.

Mike,

What's your situation with woodworking equipment/handtools/etc.? I took a look at this wiki and made my first two sets this weekend. I made a few adjustments to the process, but it was a great place to start.

If you do go down this road, make sure to start with some practice material as the first set will not turn out as expected The second set was much better!