Thread: Kaufmann restore - opinion please

I recently picked up a beautiful Kaufmann razor and when I got it home and more closely inspected the blade I noticed a slight discolouration along the edge. I have not cleaned it up yet, but I am suspecting some heat damage to the edge. I believe I know the answer to my question but I welcome your opinions. The photos do not show it well. I believe the only way to find out is to clean it up and get it on the stones and see what happens.

I'll say, from the looks of the type of scales, you have the early signs of cell rot.
Those mottled type scales/ faux tortoise, are notorious for it.

It looks like patina from here. Clean it with polish and hone it up.

The darkness at the edge could be from improper cleaning. I agree, quick cleanup with 400 wet/dry sand paper and WD-40. Polish and hone.

You can usually see grinder/Dremel marks if the blade has been overheated. I don't think heat is an issue.

Originally Posted by rolodave

You can usually see grinder/Dremel marks if the blade has been overheated. I don't think heat is an issue.

There are unusual striations on the blade and I can't figure out what they may have been caused by...

I'd agree with what the others have said, the crazy scratch marks appear to me to be wild sanding trying to clean it quickly and poorly. I believe someone made more work for you.

Originally Posted by ejmolitor37

I'd agree with what the others have said, the crazy scratch marks appear to me to be wild sanding trying to clean it quickly and poorly. I believe someone made more work for you.

Yes, I think you may be right. Just general abuse and lack of attention to proper care.

Originally Posted by ejmolitor37

I'd agree with what the others have said, the crazy scratch marks appear to me to be wild sanding trying to clean it quickly and poorly. I believe someone made more work for you.

I am in the same camp...

Clean it up with some folds of wet-dry 3M paper used wet then hone it.
I like to hit the blade, pivot and scales with a bit of WD-40 after wet sanding.

Sanding with a pinch fold of wet dry can take a while but is my favorite way to rescue a blade.
All the auto shops have nice fine grits that almost polish steel and make the blade hone ready.

I use WD-40 for the wet sanding.