Thread: Washer question

What washers were used on early 1800's Sheffield razors? (1820's). I've seen the domed washers and the bullseye washers used. Would like to know what is period correct. Thanks for any help.

There were many differing washers in the Early 1800s. Some were domed about 1/4 inch dia, Some were domed and about 3/16ths in dia. Some were almost conical and looked like stacked washers.
I think that the washers wire ore to keep the horn from splitting at the pin as they dug in to the horn around their diameter.
I would suggest looking in the Stub Tail thread as many of the ones pictured were well into the early 1800's.
JMO
~Richard

While it's a bit older than what you are looking for I hope this is of some help/it's not to the general thread but to a specific razor:

http://straightrazorpalace.com/razor...ml#post1713470

Thanks Richard and Roy. I seen some sold by kenney on ebay for a decent price, but i just want to be sure im going the right way with them.

I seen what they used in the 1700s and those things are monsters. In my opinion, ugly! But if that was what was used id use them. Period correct is what im looking for. Even if it dont catch my eye.

Originally Posted by Gasman

What washers were used on early 1800's Sheffield razors? (1820's). I've seen the domed washers and the bullseye washers used. Would like to know what is period correct. Thanks for any help.

It is difficult to date straight razors by their washers alone. Some of the larger washers were often used during the early to mid 19th century. The smaller cup washers were used throughout the 19th century as well as in factory productions into the 20th century. Try these classic reproductions in brass and nickel silver, (also steel) to see if they are suitable for your Sheffield needs. https://www.ebay.com/usr/ajkenne4xm3 FYI, Austin

Some of the I'm assuming less expensive razors used domed steel collars (quite common) in the 1820s, some like the ubiquitous Greaves Sheaf Works had pretty large brass 'stacked' collars, sometimes with the very small brass rings (like modern day small brass washers), sometimes the flower-shaped punched brass collars, and sometimes collarless. It really depends on the type of razor, maker, etc.