Thread: Tips for shaping/sizing the spacer

I am working on a new set of scales for a Frederck Reynolds and decided to use purpleheart. So far things are going well, blade is in the tumbler and basic shape of the scales has been decided on.

I was going to use CA to finish.

SWMBO wants me to use a purpleheart spacer. I'm willing to humor her (I know what is good for me).

The question I have is about final fitting and shaping of the spacer. I would normally finish the scales to the appropriate amount of shininess, then work with an oversized spacer. Once the scales are pinned I then shape the spacer, being careful to not remove any of the finish from the scales.

With the method I just documented I don't see how I can finish the spacer ahead of time and keep the finish. I also don't understand how I can appropriately size the spacer before pinning, since normally the application of the finish to the scales puts everything out just a little, forcing some tweaking of the spacer size/shape.

I could run a coat or two of CA on the inside of the scales and then glue in the spacer and treat it like a one piece set of scales. Not sure if that would be looked upon as cheating though.

Anyone have any suggestions?

Who cares if it's cheating...whatever works, I say.

I'm having the exact same issue on my restore so I'll be paying close attention here. I had been planning on using the original pewter wegde that came with the razor, but there's not enough flex in my new scales to make that work. I have a polished CA finish, but will have to start over on the spacer. Have you actually pulled off this finish-then make the spacer method that you're talking about? I have doubts I'll be able to do it without having to refinish the scales at one end.

no such thing as cheating as far as this goes... it's all about coming up with creative methods to accomplish your vision! I say go for it.

I did finish some claro walnut scales and then affixed a black canvas micarta wedge. Then spent a lot of time carefully sanding the wedge into shape.

Tedious.

Not sure if you can tell from the attached pic, but there is still a little gap for your fingernail to catch on between the spacer and the scales. I would like to get rid of that with the next set of scales if possible.

Cant tell, is it not tall enough, or non flat seam?

Gluing 1/2 seems cool.

another brilliant solution(not me). threaded fastners.

or lay the scale on top /knife mark it/ shape

Fit, then refit, then finish....

Illustrated Guide to Restoring a Straight Razor - Straight Razor Place Wiki


Adjustable pins are worth their weight in gold for doing this right....