Thread: Anyone ever gold electroplate a razor?

I was looking at some electroplating systems. I think a big ole Wade & Butcher cleaver would look stunning in polished gold. So, has anyone tried this? If so, success/failure? Also, pitfalls, lessons learned. I'd rather not mess around with a $30 jar of gold solution.

Thanks,
John

O-O-O-O-O-O-O-H-H! With Mother of Pearl scales, backed by gold plated liners!


no, I've never thought of it - but I sure am now!

-whatever

-Lou

I have a plating set up I use primarily for other things,but sometimes gold plate with it.I also nickle plate all of the pivot holes on my razors(keep them from rusting under the scales).The gold plating is very easy to do,and functional(rust prevention) when done right.Caswell sells everything you need(caswell.com)If you do it right it is also pretty durable and tough,much more so than the plating you will find on a blade face,or Double Duck tang.The best way to do it is flash plate with nickle,and then put a heavy gold plate in 10/14 KT Best regards Gary

Gary has the coolest toys...

(Color me jealous )

Originally Posted by Traveller

I have a plating set up I use primarily for other things,but sometimes gold plate with it.I also nickle plate all of the pivot holes on my razors(keep them from rusting under the scales).

Any idea why the old chrome-plated razors were copper plated first then chrome plated over that?

Yes, I was reading on the Caswell site that was mentioned that certain plating methods require a base material compatible with the final finish. Apparently, chrome is actually a 3 step process. As I understand it, gold on steel requires either;

Steel --> nickel --> gold

or

Steel --> copper --> gold

I am probably going to try the nickel option. Don't worry, I'll post pictures of my results here once I've had a chance to try it. - J

Originally Posted by Namdnas

I was looking at some electroplating systems. I think a big ole Wade & Butcher cleaver would look stunning in polished gold. So, has anyone tried this? If so, success/failure? Also, pitfalls, lessons learned. I'd rather not mess around with a $30 jar of gold solution.

Thanks,
John

I know that Vlad did it to an oldd Dubl Duck about a year ago. Haven't seen anyone do it ince though. Most people dislike the gold plating on razors (I don't) and some will even polish it off on purpose.

Originally Posted by Namdnas

I am probably going to try the nickel option. Don't worry, I'll post pictures of my results here once I've had a chance to try it. - J

Be careful now...
If it looks too good, you run the risk of getting swamped with requests to plate razors!



C utz

(I'm still looking for someone that can put a nice black-matte finish on the tang/spine.. Best I can find is cold blueing )

lol, that's fine. If I'm good at it, I may welcome the requests. - John