Thread: Anyone thought of using a magnet as 3rd pin?

That sounds like an interesting idea. From the looks of it those tiny magnets can provide up to 3 pounds of magnetic force which should be more than enough. I guess a plated one would be best to reduce chipping.

I think the blade will be magnetized when in contact with the magnet, would be interesting to see how that effects corrosion on the razor, if at all. I just got to wondering and was trying to find some info on the web but could only find tests with metals in solutions, generally corrosion being inhibited depending on the strength of the magnetic field.

Originally Posted by bevansmw

That sounds like an interesting idea. From the looks of it those tiny magnets can provide up to 3 pounds of magnetic force which should be more than enough. I guess a plated one would be best to reduce chipping.

I think the blade will be magnetized when in contact with the magnet, would be interesting to see how that effects corrosion on the razor, if at all. I just got to wondering and was trying to find some info on the web but could only find tests with metals in solutions, generally corrosion being inhibited depending on the strength of the magnetic field.

I use a 150lb. strength magnet as a part of a jig that I use for work on blades. Consequently, blades do get magnetized. I've not noticed any difference in my personal razors. The maintenance I habitually perform on my own razors prevents corrosion.

Also, I keep the pins tight on my razors so keeping them in the scales is not a problem.

If a razor needs help keeping closed, I believe it would be hazardous strop it and handle it.

Originally Posted by Berticus

That's not all though, they chip a lot.

I agree. I have even seen the plated ones shatter when you hold them apart and then let them pull together. Although the idea of a magnetized pin is very intriguing.

Well, yes, they do chip a bit, and would not be a good option for the pivot. However, as a third pin, the middle pin, in which the tang rest on when closed....this might work as a great spot for the magnet to 'hold' the blade closed. At least for a travel blade it would be handy.

If you have a 'CarboMagnetic' blade of old maybe you would not be able to open the blade?



C utz

or if you just drilled a hole and put a 1/8" thick magnet in as an inlay on each side you'd have no physical contact with the blade (thus no chipping) but the magnetic field might be enough to keep it closed.

You'd want a .125 diameter to match the outer diameter of a size 0 washer and .125 length to match the thickness of most scales people make. You can get a 100 pack of such ones from here for $8.99

Like others have said, it's really not all that worth while if the razor just flops around while it's open as this will make it difficult and dangerous to use anyway. But if it's just an aid to keep the razor closed, then I don't see why not, but personally I'll just stick with pin tension.

If you do decide to use the rare earth magnets, I'd recommend using the 1/8" instead of 1/16". Considering the brittleness of NeFeB, the 1/16" diameter ones are likely to snap on you (and probably not have enough strength to be worth while). It would also be advisable to not have the blade actually rest on the magnet when the razor is closed. If you do, it's more than likely the magnet is going to chip or break if the razor closes with any force.

Couldnt you put the magnet in the spacer to help hold it shut. No contact with blade