Thread: Scales question.

Got a question for y’all.

I recently came across this old Shumate straight razor. I like the shape, so I’ll clean it up a bit.

But upon further inspection, I noticed one of the scales is bowed inwardly.

I took an “above” and “below” picture so you can see that single scale

I’m not sure what material the scales are made of, but it looks to be celluloid.

Should I try to straighten it out, or should I just make new scales for it? (I have a bit of that Macassar ebony wood left over, I used for a current Wade & Butcher I recently completed).

I’ve never “steamed straightened” scales before, so I am uncertain of the process.

As a side note, I have a Baby Brezza steamer/sterilizer...and was wondering if I could stick it in there for the steaming process.

Input would be appreciated.

Word on the street is that celluloid is not that stable. If you heat it to straighten it 5here is a higher likelihood of it starting to break down and off gas. The off gassing is quite bad for razors, not just that one but there’s stored near it. I’d make new scales or look for donors.

Originally Posted by RezDog

Word on the street is that celluloid is not that stable. If you heat it to straighten it 5here is a higher likelihood of it starting to break down and off gas. The off gassing is quite bad for razors, not just that one but there’s stored near it. I’d make new scales or look for donors.

I’ve been reading that peeps that collect vintage straight razors should steer clear of ones with celluloid scales for exactly the reason you mentioned.

They say that it trashes the blade when stored...like you also mentioned.

Guess that’s good, as I really disliked the bling-bling banana-colored scales.

Maybe deep down inside I knew what to to, but I just needed to hear it from someone else.

Thanks!

.......Peeps...........

Well, just wanted to close the door in this.

I removed the old scales, cleaned-up the blade, and made new scales.

Crazy sharp blade. Holds a brutal edge!

Done.

Those Shumate razor were made with great steel and treatment, making them hold a laser edge.

Shumate was made during a golden age for American steel. You'll be really happy with that one.