Thread: Custom scale maker?

Hey guys, I'm not new to straight razor shaving but I am new to the forums. I was wondering if there is anyone here that has experience making scales with rams horn? If so, could you explain to me the process of turning the blanks and what it involves?

When I hear turning I think lathe. I have made some wooden scales and have cleaned up a set of horn scales. My experience with scales is limited but I have craftsman skills in many areas. I think you might want to slice them with a scroll saw or maybe a band saw to the desired thickness. Then trace out the pattern you want to get the shape right on 1 of them. I would glue the 2 flat pieces together with paper between them. This is so both come out the same. Watch before you glue to keep the pattern you want in the right place. I would also suggest you make the cuts a little outside the line or in other words bigger than your finished dimensions. You can hand finish with sand paper to make it perfect later and will have more control over the final shape that way. 1 slip in the saw and you got waste. This material would be best suited for fine tooth blades I would think because a tooth may grab during the cut and cause a split. (more waste) Considering what the ram uses them for this may not be a problem but someone with experience using it may have better advice. I don't know what your skill level is but I would be in the shop doing some test cuts :<0). Next step would be laying out the pin holes and drilling them. Line the blade up and mark where the holes go. After that separate and start thinking spacer for the toe end. This is all the simple version and of course you will want a well thought out plan. Someone will surely be along that has some horn experience.

Sorry for jumping in here, but I'm actually wondering if anyone on SRP could ( or already does) custom scales from materials other than wood.
I'm really interested stag horn, but i have actually no skills in this department , but would be happy to " employ" the services of someone of more experience.

I would suggest you contact one of the fellows in the Classified section.(Button up top of the page) At the bottom you will see Members Services. Any of those guys can help you or direct you. They do more than hone as restoration includes making scales. I don't think they are allowed to do business in the open forum. Rules, you know.

Another good place to look is under workshop or customs threads. You can Private Message anybody that does the work you see and like.

Originally Posted by 10Pups

I would suggest you contact one of the fellows in the Classified section.(Button up top of the page) At the bottom you will see Members Services. Any of those guys can help you or direct you. They do more than hone as restoration includes making scales. I don't think they are allowed to do business in the open forum. Rules, you know.

Another good place to look is under workshop or customs threads. You can Private Message anybody that does the work you see and like.

That's very kind. Thank you