Thread: Got my first razor; an old Kamisori from ebay, any advice for restoration?

http://i.imgur.com/sFwgk.jpg
http://i.imgur.com/QWyq7.jpg

The files were too large for two of them, that's why I linked instead of inserting the image. From what I read the main thing with Japanese razors is that they maintain the curved blade, which this one does. Though I'm not sure if it should be more or less curved than it is. For these old blades is it acceptable to bring them to a mirror finish or do I want to preserve the patina?

that is completly up to you! I just got an old kamisori as well as a brand new Iwasaki. I am keeping the patina on my old one and have my new Iwasaki that is a mirror finish somewhat. I don't think I would know what to do in your shoes though lol. either way that is a great buy you got there!!! congrats! I am completly inlove with my new kami's

I shine the blade part and leave the spine patina.

It's your razor dude, make it to your liking. Find pics of what others have done and find something that will help you form a vision that is yours. IMO that is what this end of the hobby is all about; Making it or making it your own. Then treat it like the tool that it is.

Jeff

I'm somehow still stuck on this being your first razor and thinking that restoration, honing and successfully learning a str8 shave is a feasible path. If you've used other kinds of str8s and this is your first Kamisori - that's different. If this is literally your first str8 razor of any kind, you may have some difficulty ahead. Rather than jump through your navel and pull out hair. Go get a shave ready str8 or Kamisori and take the time to learn the shave. The restoration and honing skills can come later. 'Maybe not pleasant to hear - wish I could be more encouraging there. A while from now, taking such a 'find' and making it sing and dance will likely be well within reason.

Hone it and shave