Thread: Possible to use as scales...

Hey Guys,
I have a question, and I hope I am putting it in the correct sub-forum. I have been looking for material to use for some scale replacement on an old Kropp I am working on. Today, I was walking around in the little town I live in today and came across a guy selling horn combs, and shoe horns and what not. He had a couple of flat pieces that looked like they might be long enough for a straight razor so I went ahead and bought them.However, when I explained what I wanted to use them for, he said they wouldn't work, because they would warp easily if they are around a lot of water (he knew I would be wet shaving).

Now being here as long as I have, I know these guys say that things can't be done, but for the most part I find a way to do it anyway. Looking at the horn pieces, they look like they will work fine other than the fact that the pattern is more curved than the blade curvature. However, as this looks to be from the tip, I thought he may have a point. Of course, he said all of his horn would not be usable, even a huge water buffalo horn, that I know I could get some flat pieces out of.

Anyway, what do you guys think? Will the horn work as a material? If so, what can I treat it with to help prevent warping (if that is even a concern after they have been flattened)? They only cost me $3, so I am not overly concerned. Anyway, here are the pics:

fly through them man, cant wait to see the finished product . hope you post pix.

Should work beautifully and be beautiful.Hope the real experts will chime in with details.

Haven't horn and bone been the posh material for scales before all this celluloid thingamabob?

Rather than imposing the straightness of curvature onto the material, how about using the material's own curvature? Sure, they might be too wonky, but you could always try to mock up paper/cardboard scales

I have to agree that I think those will work wonderfully. The natural shape and curve of the horn means that with a little trimming, you could have some very nicely flared scales. I personally don't really like that style, but you see customs up all the time with that sort of chunky flared out end, though you may consider a heavier blade for such an undertaking.

Originally Posted by DPflaumer

I have to agree that I think those will work wonderfully. The natural shape and curve of the horn means that with a little trimming, you could have some very nicely flared scales. I personally don't really like that style, but you see customs up all the time with that sort of chunky flared out end, though you may consider a heavier blade for such an undertaking.

My thoughts exactly. I feel this blade is a little on the small side to do wider scales. If it wasn't for the thinner blade I have, I think the curvature would be really nice. I think I will spend some more time looking at it, and see what I can come up with.

Thanks for all the suggestions guys. Not sure why he was so adamant that the horn couldn't be used. If you guys have any suggestions for sealing it, let me know.

I'm not sure either, since there are tons of horn scales around. I would try to help you out scaring up a heavier blade, but I really prefer smaller blades myself. Best of luck though, hope to see some great pictures when you get it all together.

Yeah, it is really easy for me to find materials here, but hard to find vintage razors. I may try to hit up some flea markets when I go back to NC for Christmas. I actually want to give my 2 brothers and father a straight razor for Christmas and was thinking I might mod some DAs. I know a lot of guys around here have problems with DAs, but I figure if I can do them up nicely, it will be a way to get another 3 guys (the family) interested in straight razors and wet shaving. Anyway, this will be my first restore and mods, so don't hold your breath for anything spectacular. I will be happy just to be able to shave with the Kropp again.

First of all you will need to cut the scales from the slabs. Once you have done so and start sanding them to size, shape and design, as they seem thick, the scales might warp a bit.

I use a standing steamer myself to straighten them. Or you could just boil some water and use the steam. Depending the direction you hold them they will straighten themselves back. It's really not that hard. I like to nourish them with neatsfoot oil myself.

You should be fine moving forward.

BTW, these are some fine looking horn slabs

Originally Posted by Maximilian

First of all you will need to cut the scales from the slabs. Once you have done so and start sanding them to size, shape and design, as they seem thick, the scales might warp a bit.

I use a standing steamer myself to straighten them. Or you could just boil some water and use the steam. Depending the direction you hold them they will straighten themselves back. It's really not that hard. I like to nourish them with neatsfoot oil myself.

You should be fine moving forward.

BTW, these are some fine looking horn slabs

Thanks Max. I think what the old guy was saying was that even if I got them straight, they would warp again after being around moisture. Do you find that to be true? Also, what do you think about using a food steamer and just put on the top shelf or something? I used to have an industrial clothing steamer, but it shorted out somehow and I haven't fixed it yet. If SWMBO is out, it might be worth a try. The neatsfoot oil sounds like the way to go.

They are quite thick at the bottom right now. I wish they were thick at the tip as well, I would just try to cut them down the middle. However, the tip is only 3mm while the bottom is 7mm, that's why I got two pcs. So, I definitely have some sanding ahead of me.

I just made a rough cut-out on one of the slabs. I only have a broken hacksaw blade and a dremel with well-worn attachments from de-pitting an old bike frame. I will need to get some more tools this weekend, but I couldn't wait to see how the horn handled. Plus SWMBO was out at her English class, so I was able to do it while she was gone. I am getting ready for a conference call, so I can't mess with the other one. Just wanted to get you guys opinion. Which side do you think looks the best facing out?

In this one, the pattern curvature is more prominent.


or this one, where the pattern is softer?