Thread: Scale on restoration???

A lite clean up, as said. But u might use a tip from Rez, that I've used several times. Coat the scales in mineral oil a few days before u start your clean up. It'll soften them up slightly, gives them new life and removes some of the brittleness that occurs over time. We do the same thing with horn, but with neatsfoot oil.

Originally Posted by TristanLudlow

Yes, this is sound advice.
I once had a set of ivory scales crack at the pivot when trying to tighten them up a bit; I keep the damaged scales on my razor desk as a daily reminder, I still beat myself up thinking about it

Cracks can be repaired in quite a few cases.

Bob

Originally Posted by BobH

Cracks can be repaired in quite a few cases.

Bob

I meant, it cracked all the way through, read: it split in two pieces

Originally Posted by TristanLudlow

I meant, it cracked all the way through, read: it split in two pieces

Still might be possible to repair with the use of a liner like brass. It would be an interesting challenge for sure but there are some threads on that iirc.

Bob

Yeah, I'd like to see a pic of the scales. Depending on how big the piece is, u might be able to fix it with CA n soda.

I've dine it with bone, just haven't had the opportunity to try it on Ivory, yet. My understanding is, that's what's used for repairing ivory. In some cases.

You're right, although I'm not sure where I put the other pieces.

It was on a bigger razor 6/8, I'm more of a 4/8 and even 3/8 razor kinda guy, I was thinking about reshaping the scales to fit a smaller blade in there that I will use on a daily basis

I have repaired horn scales with CA that seems to hold up well at the pivot area, if it decides to separate I'll add a liner to it

Thanks for the suggestions, I'm not one to toss out or waste the precious materials. i've had very tough horn and ivory scales as well, very thick and durable, it's always a bit of a gamble

Lets take one more look at this beauty...
A beveled spine, nice! Quarter hollow? My fave! Excellent collars... and beautiful ivory scales.
She has sharp lines and graceful curves, and dressed in a royal gown... Your a lucky man!

Yeah, I agree completely, I have yet to come across a razor with such interesting geometry. It looks (at least from the pics) to have never been honed. I am guessing it dates from the 1830's or 1840's. Just a guess based on indicators like blade shape, the tail and pointy end scales. Again, my hope is that with a little love and attention she'll be as good as ever. I very much appreciate all the great advice and encouragement.