Thread: F. Herder model 11 restoration

Last week, I found a straight razor that belonged to my grandfather (or his father).
I think it is a F. Herder model 11.

Unfortunately, it is in bad shape. I was wondering if this could be restored.
Any advice would be appreciated

Sorry, can't see the photos

Bob

Originally Posted by BobH

Sorry, can't see the photos

Bob

Hi Bob, I edited the first post. Pictures should be visible now. Thanks for pointing out.

I would say yes it can be restored. Although there is a lot of rust, it seems most of it is along the tang, which is a good thing. When you see a lot of rust along the cutting edge, that's when you have a problem. I would look for a razor restorer on here and have it done professionally. I think you'd be surprised at how nice this blade could be made again.

Yes, I can't see why it could not be restored with a bit of work. If you feel you can do it that is good but if you don't a professional restore is a good idea especially as it is a family heirloom. Get her done and enjoy that heirloom.

Bob

I would send it out and get it fixed up. The thing with that razor is, it is very valuable. There is only one way to get an heirloom razor, and not everyone can have one. I love my great grandfathers razor, it is the highlight of my humble collection.

Originally Posted by RezDog

I would send it out and get it fixed up. The thing with that razor is, it is very valuable. There is only one way to get an heirloom razor, and not everyone can have one. I love my great grandfathers razor, it is the highlight of my humble collection.

Yes, I think I'm gonna search for a professional.
I'm a total newby on this matter, although I'm shaving with a straight razor (bought a new one)

F Herder razors are some very high quality razors. From what I have read they were one of the oldest sovereigns in Solingen are of Germany.

I would love to have a heirloom razor but unfortunately they were disposed of after grandfathers passing. That one should clean up nicely and give a fantastic shave but have it done by a pro unless you have the skill set to do it yourself.

Let us know how she turns out and post pics, we love pics here on SRP.

Herder razors are typically very nice. I gave the ones I had to the few friends I have, if that's any indication.

That said, I would leave this one as is. If you "clean it up", you will definitely lose the maker's mark. Besides, and based on your somewhat small sized pictures, I would wager a guess that you will lose at least 1mm at the edge, and quite possibly more. Although the grind looks a lot less hollow than what I would expect to see in a Herder, I doubt that it will be a good razor after cleanup.

So why not remove the active rust, cover it in oil, and keep it for what it is, ie a heirloom?

Originally Posted by RobinK

Herder razors are typically very nice.................... keep it for what it is, ie a heirloom?

AGREE on both counts.

I spent several dollars having my Great Great Grandfather's Wade and Butcher "restored"................. NEVER use it.It actually is not a great shaver so I keep it as the heirloom that it is.