Thread: tightening scales

So I have a vintage straight razor. A quite nice one, but it is a bit loose in the scales. What is the best way to tighten it up? My first instinct is to tap the brass rod with a ball peen hammer, but I am a newbie and as such looking for a bit of insight. Thanks guys.

You might look at YouTube videos, for a better explanation. But yes, the use of the round end of a 4oz or less ball peen hammer.
Tapping on the outer edges of the pin.

Tap on your fingernail near the cuticle, it shouldn't hurt. That's how hard you want to strike the pin.

Make sure the end of the hammer is polished first.

Try a light tap with a spoon.

Geek

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Yes, thats the best way to tighten the blade within the scales, I use a very small ball peen hammer and a small vice, hold the razor so that the pin on the opposite side rests on the flat of the vice and very lightly and I mean lightly tap the head of the pin about 6 or so times and check, it's best to do a few taps per side to keep the blade centered within the scales.

Use the flat side of a hammer as an anvil. Place pin on hammer and tap top pin lightly with back of spoon or small upholstery hammer. Even tight scales loosen up with opening and closing.

Just dont use one of the wifes good spoons! It wont look the same when you done.

If you want the best tool for this get yourself a jewelers hammer. They are small and light with removable heads so you can change the striking metal. Watch repair outfitters sell them.