Thread: Thoughts on drilling scales on Wapi

Well, here's what I've learned so far:

1. Hardboard (thin cardboard like stuff) makes a pretty good insert between the scales.

2. Use a drill-press, I'm not good enough with a drill to get the holes as round or as perfectly spaced as I would like.

3. Put a piece of cardboard over the blade and properly secure the razor. I can imagine that a half open razor spinning around a drill bit could be more than a little dangerous

4. If you put the center of the holes 1mm below center-line of the scales you can see the bottom edge of the blade through the hole which looks pretty cool.

I drilled 3 holes (9/32, 1/4, 7/32) starting at the end of the scales (furthest from the blade) with a 2mm gap between the hole edges. That moved the balance point just barely behind the pin. Still a long ways from balancing at the midpoint of the tang but it makes a much bigger difference at shave time. The tendency of the blade to want to rotate when shaving the neck is much reduced.

I'll post pictures when I get the holes properly de-burred and re-polished.

Originally Posted by effnish

I'm considering drilling out the scales on my Wapi to remove some of the weight and improve the balance of the razor. Is this a bad idea? I think if all my razor's were Wapis I wouldn't mind the weight of the scales. However, switching between a full hollow with plastic scales and the Wapi is a bit of an adjustment.

I was thinking 4-6 holes along the centerline of the scales could make a noticable difference while being easier than making new scales and re-pinning the razor.

Thoughts?

I agree that the extra weigh is an adjustment after using a lighter razor. I determined to rescale me Wapi after the first time I used it. After having it for about a year now however, I'm used to it. I think I'll keep it as is.