Thread: First Crack at Making Scales

Hello all,

I recently got lucky, and acquired a Finney Tally-Ho as part of a lot. The blade cleaned up easily, and is certainly one of my top shavers. Unfortunately, it was wearing a pair of generic black plastic scales that didn't seem to fit a blade of such awesomeness.

I found some nice scale blanks on Etsy, and got a pair each of black buffalo and honey colored ox. I went with the black buffalo for the Tally-Ho (the honey ox will go with a Greaves blade I received in the same lot).

This is how it looked with the old generic scales. They seemed to be too long for the blade as there was quite a gap between the toe of the blade and the wedge.


I started by taping the blanks together and cutting a rough shape. I wanted these scales to be a bit shorter for a better fit.



Then, after much trial and very much error, I was pleased with the result.


Here is the finished product. I think it turned out ok for a first try. I certainly plan on getting some better equipment for future scale projects. It was an uphill battle all the way. I'm too exhausted to shave now (how ironic).

Nice work Doc. They seem to flow naturally, with the unique pattern to the horn. Nice selection.

They look great. Could have used more thickness in the wedge it looks like. Maybe just the pic but it looks like a tight closing fit. Sometimes that will cause the pivot to loosen as it wears a little. Overall though good job :<0)

Originally Posted by 10Pups

They look great. Could have used more thickness in the wedge it looks like. Maybe just the pic but it looks like a tight closing fit. Sometimes that will cause the pivot to loosen as it wears a little. Overall though good job :<0)

I appreciate the feedback. The wedge could stand to be a bit thicker. Unfortunately, the material I started with was very thin to begin with. I would like to eventually make a lead wedge if it ends up causing problems. I am looking forward to taking what I've learned during this project, and making the next set even better.

There ya go Doc! Nice work. Now you're on your way to making scales for whenever you need some. I like the look of streaked horn. I have black horn, streaked horn, honey horn, rams horn, bleached white bone & some cocobolo for scales.

Originally Posted by engine46

There ya go Doc! Nice work. Now you're on your way to making scales for whenever you need some. I like the look of streaked horn. I have black horn, streaked horn, honey horn, rams horn, bleached white bone & some cocobolo for scales.

I am certainly looking forward to upgrading my tools, and getting started on the next set. I expect that my SRAD will only worsen now that scale condition is less of a factor.

I only have one piece of advice. Never use the word "crack" in the same sentence with scales!

Nice job.
Love your show.

Looks good!

I think you did a great job! I've got a nice vintage razor with cheap scales and would love to replace them with something like you did.
Inspired now!

Originally Posted by DocMartin0321

I am certainly looking forward to upgrading my tools, and getting started on the next set. I expect that my SRAD will only worsen now that scale condition is less of a factor.

It will worsen but in a good way! You will see that you can make some beautiful scales.