Thread: A Few (Very) Rusty Razors

So, here are some razors I recently obtained. I'm cleaning up a little but can't give them the full treatment right now.
Gonna use some of these to practice repinning and maybe straightening scales. If I can get the materials together I may try the electrolysis method when I visit my family where there is room to work.
Anyway, a good example of what to avoid when buying razors.





Wade & Butcher after some scrubbing with a brass brush.

Yup Ya Got Your Work Cut Out For Ya, I Agree With Your Last Line., Good Luck, We All Gotta Start Somewhere.Ty

If anything looks like you could use those scales for othe razors down the line

+1^ . Always good to have extra scales on hand.

And remember it dont have to be pretty to use. As long as the rust hasnt gotten to the edge, clean it up and hone it. It might still shave. You got a couple there that might still shave. But as you said, good practice work and a few good parts to be had in that mess.
Good luck.

Originally Posted by Gasman

And remember it dont have to be pretty to use. As long as the rust hasnt gotten to the edge, clean it up and hone it. It might still shave. You got a couple there that might still shave. But as you said, good practice work and a few good parts to be had in that mess.
Good luck.

Yeah, a few look they have good edges. The spines will have to be smoothed out so they don't scratch a hone if done without tape. Several of the blades have solid scales but I'm reluctant to use the synthetic ones since I don't know ow for sure which are gassing off.

Yeah, that's a rough bunch. But if the price was right, and the intention was restoration practice, then you can't go wrong!

Regarding scales gassing off: the best/most obvious indicator is if they are warping, shrinking, or bending. If the wedge end seems all original, but the scales have shrunk enough that the wedge protrudes beyond the edge of the scales: that is also a sign of degradation. Some scales barely show signs of deterioration, but have eaten half the blade already! Some get a bit wavy, but aren't eating the blade. When in doubt, diligence is your best tool. Just regularly monitor any scales suspected of being celluloid, but looked stable enough to not toss immediately.

For the rust: I suggest Evaporust! This stuff is fantastic! It is not acidic, and only attacks the rust. Please note: you must submerge the razor entirely into the Evaporust, otherwise there is a line of oxidation where the razor contacts the surface of the liquid. Just let it soak for anywhere between 1 hour and a few days, then take a detailing brush to it. After that, start with some medium grit wet & dry sandpaper (400-800 grit) to clean off the now neutralized rust, and get an idea of how much effort will be required to restore the razor, if possible.

For further information about the use of Evaporust for SR restoration, please see the following thread:
http://straightrazorpalace.com/works...vapo-rust.html

Thanks for the info Crawler.