Thread: Hardened metal, and not?

OK, this might be a stupid question, but, what happens to the metal if it is not hardened?

Say, I'm thinking of getting some 'non-hardened' metal (i.e. Carbon steel, damascus) to use on the scales, (spacer, inlay, whatever)... what would be the problem with using it as scale material?

Does it need to be hardened if you are not going to be using it as the 'buisness end'?

C utz

Originally Posted by C utz

OK, this might be a stupid question, but, what happens to the metal if it is not hardened?

Say, I'm thinking of getting some 'non-hardened' metal (i.e. Carbon steel, damascus) to use on the scales, (spacer, inlay, whatever)... what would be the problem with using it as scale material?

Does it need to be hardened if you are not going to be using it as the 'buisness end'?

C utz

No. Unhardened metal would be fine. It'd be pretty heavy, but I see no reason it wouldn't work.

C utz,

Some blade makers will use a patterned material made of wrought iron and pure nickel. There is no way to heat treat it to hard. It's also very attractive. Weight does become an issue. Try to use thin materials.

Titanium is also a thought, strong and lightweight, does not require hardening and can be anodized to different colors.

Oooo and coppers and bronzes....don't get me started.

Didn't some of the 19th century english razors use a lead wedge?

Originally Posted by mparker762

Didn't some of the 19th century english razors use a lead wedge?

I would say at least 1/2 the razors I sell have lead spacers.
It is quite common on the older razors.

Tony