Thread: Taking blades to the wheel.

So I've got an amazing neighbour who used to make his own custom motorcycle frames that has lent me his bench grinder. I'm very interested in purchasing some cotton wheels and some paste and putting some of my blades on the wheel for that true mirror finish.

The blades I have all have intact, original scales and pins and I think it would be a shame, plus I currently lack the skill, to replace the vintage pinning.

Does anyone have recommendations on how I should go about getting these blades up to a 'like new' finish???

I have read that you have to be careful with how long you are contacting the blade to the wheel as to prevent any damage to the temper and to keep a big bucket of cold water near by to keep the blade cold. I'm also not concerned about the small piece of metal on the tang that won't get the polishing due to the scales being in the way of the polisher.

Should I be taping the scales with electrical (or other) tape to prevent damage to them?

Any other tips would be amazing!!!

If you cannot unpin them,would suggest you learn how first.
Polishing blades with power tools with scales attached is just a partial job,JMO

I 'can' unpin them, but like the pins in them. Some of them have nice rounded washers and one or two is washerless. Since i'm not selling any of these and would be for gifts/personal use, i'm not worried about a half inch of steel not being mirrored.

Is there any way to maintain the integrity of the original pins???

Than your only option is to polish them intact,is just not considerd the best way.

Look at the "Stickys" in this forum and also in the Wiki before you start, they are filled with useful info. It will help you decide on the wheel size and type and also what buffing compounds to use. Be sure to practice on some junker blades first. It would be a shame to destroy one of your good razors.