Thread: The inner washer question...

I am new to replacing SR scales...but I want to get better. I have several nice old blades that need new scales. I have not done a lot of scale replacements. The few I have done on antique razors were because the scales were cracked or broken but the blade was still in very good shape. I noticed that when I remove the old scales some, but not all of the razors have an inner washer (thin plastic or brass) on the inside of the scales next to the tang. If you were putting on news scales on an old blade would you use inner washers or not? And what is your rationale for this decision? And if you do use washers what size do you use? I've been looking online and can't find anything about the proper size for inner and outer washers.

I always use inside washers to reduce the tang rubbing on scales and wearing them down. I get my washers from micro-fasteners (1/4" O.D. X 1/16" I. D.).

Originally Posted by bouschie

I always use inside washers to reduce the tang rubbing on scales and wearing them down. I get my washers from micro-fasteners (1/4" O.D. X 1/16" I. D.).

^^^^^^That in Brass

Also this might be common knowledge, might not, but washers have two sides they are not the same, the flat side goes on the scale the rounded side goes on the tang. is helps center the razor

It depends on the scales if they “need” thrust washer depends on the scale material and how it is finished on the inside of the scales.

I always clean and replace or add new thrust washer to a new set of scales, I also finish the inside of scales or at least sand smooth and polish on a buffer.

If a razor has a bearing surface, (the thrush washer) the bearing will be on that surface and not on the pin that may turn in the pin hole.

I make new thrust washer from brass washer (micro fasteners 00) and pound them flat on an anvil with a flat faced ball peen hammer. You will need to redrill the hole as it will shrink when flattened. I get them the same thickens as original washers, the od is about the same diameter as originals. You can make them as thin as you need.

For transparent or ivory scales, I use PET washers made from clear plastic water bottles, using leather hole punches to cut the washer and punch a clean center hole.

Brass thrush washers turn black and look unsightly on transparent and Ivory scales. Thrust washers a add a bit more clearance for the tang and wiggle room for centering adjustment.

Go to the first post in the Workshop Thread. for lots of pinning information and where to and what to buy. ( Welcome to the Workshop: How do I / Where do I / What do I / answers are here)

When using any flat washer, as said be aware of the flat and curved side created as they are punched, good point. Also be aware of this if you dome your own washers with a dapping block. A domed washer used as a collar will remain in tension on the pin, as opposed to a flat washer.

Read the first thread in the Workshop Forum for how to and where to buy info. ( Welcome to the Workshop: How do I / Where do I / What do I / answers are here)