Thread: Looking for some constructive criticisim

Is the razor in CF scales full edge with no hollow at all? How does that hone? I have attempted to hone one that was full wedge (a kamisori) and it was impossible to do, it would stick to the stones like crazy.

Okay. The following is just my opinion:

- Imo the tangs are a bit thin.
- The first design has too many straight lines. They look almost like rulers.
- With the curvy one, I'd say it look 'off' because you have a very straight edge with a very curvy spine. Imo those two options don't go well together.
- The pin of the wedge in the fiberglass scales should go in the middle imo. Having it so far at the bottom looks a bit weird, and the wedge might move over time.

Not sure about the first one, it might be that the scales are a bit oversized, as have already been said. The second, I love the lines of it, but I would like a square section on the shank personally. and as for the offset pin, I like it! It's unusual, but in a good way.
I'm new at the whole straight razor thing, by the way so I can only comment on aesthetics. I have no idea what physical attributes make for a good razor!

Keep going!

Iain

I do agree what has been said about the details - however, I must say I do like the profiling of the first razor a lot. The hollowing is nice, even and clean, and it is well polished. The second might be similar, but it's hard to tell with no front picture. The most important thing about the razor, and the most difficult, is the grinding of the blade. The other parts are important, but with a little studying you'll get them right. Keep it up, I think those are great first razors.

Oh, the scales - they should actually bend a little, outwards. The wedge will make them curl put a little, provided they are thin enough to flex a little. It makes the design much classier, and also holds an important function.

Nothing to add that hasn't been said, other than in terms of build quality, they look excellent, I especially love the minimalism and simplicity of the first blade, and also the vibe of the scales need refinement. That is all. Excellent job!

Love the walnut one myself. The fiber ones are nice, but a bit too curvy for my taste. But, I am still learning and haven't made one, yet.

Take what I say with a grain of salt because I'm still new to all of this but I am just starting to get into restores and such.

To me, they look like the kind of razor someone would make if they had never seen a razor, like they've only ever read about them in magazines without photos. Many of the people here tend to be purists (correct me if I'm overstating), so I can understand how it seems to be off to some people. I think it's cool though. There's an utilitarian kind of feel to them, like you know they'll work just fine. The first one looks like it could be a killer steampunk razor if you added the proper embellishments on the scales.

Keep up the good work!!! I wish I had half of your skill.

Ok I will jump in here. First of all let me begin by telling you you did a great job! The first razor is done very well, utilitarian and no frills shape. Sort of a function over form design, industrial. With that said it is at odds with the scales. The scales seem to be very chunky. I would maybe unpin the razor and thin them in width. Square off the end of the scale in the toe section and use either nickel silver pins and washers or torx head stainless. I would also add that this razor is my favorite of the two.
The second razor is in stark contrast to the first. It is more form over function. It reminds me of a Japanese style razor. To my eye the tang width works but for a fixed blade design. It looks to thin for a folding razor and the pivot is too far to the tail giving what is already a thin design look fragile and worrisome. The scales IMO should mimic and compliment the blade and not be at odds with it.

This is all the constructive criticism I can give you. You obviously have the talent and know how to make a razor so now refine it. Overall great job, it's better than I personally could have done
Keep at it!

Thank you all who have added their advise and point of view. You have all given me much to think about. In saying that I have begun grinding a smile in one of the blades. Not the easiest thing I have attempted. I am trying to keep the wedge profile to the razor. I am thinking that a hollow grind would be easier in that I would not have a bow in blade thickness. Perhaps I am going about it all wrong, I suppose that I will find out soon enough. I did however find out that I am not good at heat treating myself. I wreaked 4 blades in the process before deciding that I should just sent them out.

Take the 4 blades and have them re heat treated