Thread: Why a Wedge Spacer?

I swear I've searched but can't find out why a wedge shaped spacer. Is a wedge necessary?
I plan on rescaling my DA and would like to know the "why" of things before attempting them.

Thanks!
Kevin

Short answer:
It allows there to be a < 1/8" space at the toe of the scales and a 1/4" space at the pivot without bowing the scales and causing undue stresses.

I think that a flat spacer warps a lot of scales and causes stress in the center portion. Hard to explain why, but if the pivot end of the scales needs to be forced out to pin together, then the center portion of the scales get forced inward. It also solves a lot of problems with blades not closing centered, etc. Besides all that, it looks better and is harder to do well.

But why can't you just make the spacer the same thickness as the spine of the razor, so that the scales are the same distance apart at both pins?

Originally Posted by MaillerPhong

But why can't you just make the spacer the same thickness as the spine of the razor, so that the scales are the same distance apart at both pins?

If I understand your question, take note that tangs are tapered in width being narrower toward the tail than toward the spine, so as it rotates it will bend any scales that are not bowed to allow for the razor to swivel open

Originally Posted by hoglahoo

If I understand your question, take note that tangs are tapered in width being narrower toward the tail than toward the spine, so as it rotates it will bend any scales that are not bowed to allow for the razor to swivel open

Gotcha. So, ideally would the scales be flat when the blade's fully extended, and bowed when the blade's fully closed? In other words, make the wedge match the taper of the tang.

Originally Posted by MaillerPhong

Gotcha. So, ideally would the scales be flat when the blade's fully extended, and bowed when the blade's fully closed? In other words, make the wedge match the taper of the tang.

Not exactly, but almost. The scales will ideally be as close to flat as possible when the razor is closed since this is the "default" position. When open, the scales can be allowed to flex a little. There are obvious exceptions to what I say, but in general it is best to reduce the stresses on the scales as much as possible.

When I first started making scales I was using non-wedge type spacers and honestly never had a problem. These days I find the wedges make for a nicer look, so I use them.

Some scales are purposely bowed when closed to accomodate the tang section between the pin and the blade. This section is normally tapered to fit inside the scales without too much rubbing, but there are some razors (the larger henckels come to mind) that require either:

1. A section of the scales carved out to accept the fat tang
2. Bowed Scales
3. A wider and less "wedgey" spacer

or any combination of the above.

The ideal shape is compound/thicker toward the pin,and thicker toward the inside.Best regards Gary

Interestingly, I found that with plastic and wood, even the hard woods, the wedge spacer does as everyone describes. But with carbon fibre scales, the carbon fibre has very little flex and so an even spacer had to be used to stop exerting too much pressure on the tang end holding pins.

Originally Posted by English

with carbon fibre scales, the carbon fibre has very little flex and so an even spacer had to be used to stop exerting too much pressure on the tang end holding pins.

I disagree here. True that different materials have a different amount of flex, but I have worked with a lot of CF and it is a matter of countouring the scales and using a wedge that won't give more than the scales. I think in all cases a wedge shaped spacer can be used for a better outcome, you just need to approach it differently.