wood scale thickness limit?

[markjm223]

Hi

I had an idea for a project and I wanted to know if it's realistic or would it look goofy.

I wanted to chip carve some designs in wood scales. I was wondering what thickness could be used for scales before it starts to look too lopsided.

Has anyone tried this before?

Thanks

[gssixgun]

Keep in mind you can always sand from the backside to thin them down, for the heavier wedges I start the wood at 3/16... I would guess 1/4 would be on the extreme end of thickness....

[aroliver59]

I think most people use 1/8" to 3/16". for scales.You maybe could go 1/4" to try it if you need to.They might look a bit too thick though.As far as looking goofy,Please try it if you have carving ability.The great thing about this forum is that we share ideas,and new ideas are the best.Please post pics if you have success.

[Bruce]

Shallow chipping for those thin, svelte, and non-clunky scales?

[markjm223]

I actually don't have any experience carving. I came up with the scales idea then looked into carving, from there I came across chip carving, I like designs and patterns so I figured chip carving is perfect. Someone could make some really cool scales. Why not me? Then I found a 4 hour chip carving class at a WoodCraft store. The project is a clock. I should hear back from them in a little while. The wood that people carve is usually pretty thick so that's why I posted this question. I was thinking I could rough cut the scale shape and rubber cement them together (like in the tutorial) that would give me more to hold or clamp. I am correct with the rubber cement deal aren't I, please let me know if I misunderstood. I suppose I could carve out both sides on a block and then cut them in half. I would carve both sides, split them and then sand down to the thickness I wanted. I know the wood would be pretty delicate if it was too thin and that is why I was wondering about scale thickness. Maybe something thin on the blade side of the scales to reinforce? Metal? Plastic? Remember this is a concept so my suggestions maybe a little out there.

I'm new at razor restoration in the first place, as you can see by all of my questions, and my imagination is really crankin'. I'm going to start working on my pinning and the class is in a few weeks.Plus I get one more thing to learn to hone/sharpen.

If this idea becomes a reality I'll definitely post some pics

[Maximilian]

for me it's all about balance and distribution of weight so basically it will depend from razor to razor and what scale material is chosen.
If you are already using a very heavy wood or other material making it to thick will put to much weight towards the scales.
1/8 is the perfect standard to start with. Personally I don't like heavy wide scales but worst case scenario I would say 9/64.