Hi,

I'm new to the forum. I'm a tinker at heart and love to work in my shop on various projects.
I hadn't read this thread, but I did my own experiment using 70% alcohol, usually use 90% but the store was out.
I used vintage straight razors from early 1800's to about 1920 with damaged scales moslty celluloid, and a few buffalo horn. in separate glass.
I also separated the black celluloid and the ivory colored celluloid.
I left them in totally submerged for 48 hours. I didn't take pictures but did thoroughly inspect them before starting.
The result: no damage to any razor blade or scale , no rust and about 90% of the gunk was dissolved from the scales.
I got beautiful urine colored alcohol.
The only places that didn't get completely cleaned were around the pivot and the wedge. I used a q-tip and 70% alcohol and cleaned up the rest of
the residue. I know barbicide will stain most light colored things although cleaning with Maas with get rid of it.

I repeated the same test with barbicide with the same result on the black celluloid and buffalo horn with the same result.

This is a GREAT forum and I've learned a TON about straight razors. Thanks to all the members like gssixgun & others who paved the way for other razor nuts!