Chipped Wade & Butcher Razor

It didn't appear to have a crack. I will look very close to verify. It is also a hollow. What causes a crack in a razor anyway? I've seen some with cracks and left them, but I was just woundering what causes them. I also ran across another W&B and the guy was insistant that it had Ivory handles and was wanting @ 300.00 for it. I think they are celluloid because the handles were warped and it has the windmill pressed into the scales. Can ivory warp? Can you press an image into ivory?? I'm using the Standard Guid to Razors as a bible, but I think he's looking for a "fish."

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Originally Posted by cconlee

It didn't appear to have a crack. I will look very close to verify. It is also a hollow. What causes a crack in a razor anyway? I've seen some with cracks and left them, but I was just woundering what causes them. I also ran across another W&B and the guy was insistant that it had Ivory handles and was wanting @ 300.00 for it. I think they are celluloid because the handles were warped and it has the windmill pressed into the scales. Can ivory warp? Can you press an image into ivory?? I'm using the Standard Guid to Razors as a bible, but I think he's looking for a "fish."

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he is definitely fishing...

If it was me i would offer 15 i mean who else is going to buy a straight with a chip in it!!!!!!!

No, ivory cannot be "pressed" like you are talking about. It can be carved (great medium for that) or scrimshawed. I have seen horn pressed as well. I have a feeling the scales are celluloid like you are thinking, poured into a mold.

Chips and cracks come from abuse: serious pressure, drops, intentionally flexing the blade, and so on.

What should be the first course of action? If it cannot be fixed, thats OK, I can use it as a display, but I would like to at least get the chip out. I was able to use Martin103's advice and was able to talk them down to $15.00. So I'm not out much. There is a crack on each side of the chip. One is the same height as the chip, the other goes a little higher. I would like your thoughts on repair/restoration. Hones available are the Norton 220/1000 and 4000/8000
Due to the graphic nature of these pictures you are about to see, Parental discretions is advised.

Im glad you followed my advise and talked them down to 15 dollars , there is a great video on here somewhere about removing chips check it out!!! that is one good looking blade my friend!!! Im hoping to see the progress you make.

The chip is not the issue, the crack by it is. I would have left this one alone, but now that you have it I would take it to a diamond stone and try to work out the chip. Keep an eye on that crack though, if it runs too "deep" you will just need to quit.

is the concensus to tape the top and hone it on the 220? Whats the best way to take the edge down without causing further damage? Again, I think it my only be a display piece at this point. But if it can be saved and possible to shave with, that would be awesome! Anyones thoughts are welcome!!

Also, I cant seem to find the video. I did score another W&B that has a little chip on the tip. What would be a good way to deal with this guy?

Boy, some great advice posted here and Ace makes and excellent point. Personally I would definitely purchase the razor assuming the the crack has not traveled too far. Even if you are not able to readily determine this, seems to me, to be worth the risk. They are not making anymore of these (lol) and you really can't buy much of anything these days for $20. (metaphorically speaking of course) Just my two cents worth.

Best Regards
Kenny