Thread: getting a tiny crack out

I have an old Filarmonica 8/8 'sub cero' I'm trying to get back up to snuff. There's a little chip in the edge, more like a hairline crack that goes into the blade a little ways; I'll probably have to lose almost 1/8 of an inch to get rid of it. I've never taken this much off a blade before, and I don't have a Norton 220/1000. Can I do this safely with sandpaper? If so, would 1000 grit be too slow, or should I do circles on 600?

Also, would you guys recommend getting the chip out before doing any more polishing with Maas? I'm afraid of the crack spreading where the blade is so thin...

I'm a real newbie when it comes to restoration, and I really like this razor, so maybe I ought to send it out.

That sounds like a real bad situation. Especially since it's a top end blade. I think sending it out is a good idea. There's been some great work around here recently.

I just think of the number of sheets of sandpaper you'd go through. I'd say get a 1000 grit waterstone and call it good. I think coarser grit's can be very good.

X

Thanks X.

What do you think about 220? How long would it take with 1000 grit to take off 1/8 inch I wonder. If I'm going to buy a coarse grit stone maybe 220/1000 makes sense rather than 1000/4000...

I'd get the 220/1000 if I were you. Don't forget to tape the spine before you get to it and go circular.

A chip is one thing, a crack is something else. The problem with cracks is that unless its really superficial they have a tendency to grow especially with intense honing. I would advise having a real honemeister tackle this one. If you do it yourself go really easy on the pressure which is what you need to get that much metal off.

Originally Posted by dylandog

I have an old Filarmonica 8/8 'sub cero' I'm trying to get back up to snuff. There's a little chip in the edge, more like a hairline crack that goes into the blade a little ways; I'll probably have to lose almost 1/8 of an inch to get rid of it. I've never taken this much off a blade before, and I don't have a Norton 220/1000. Can I do this safely with sandpaper? If so, would 1000 grit be too slow, or should I do circles on 600?

Also, would you guys recommend getting the chip out before doing any more polishing with Maas? I'm afraid of the crack spreading where the blade is so thin...

I'm a real newbie when it comes to restoration, and I really like this razor, so maybe I ought to send it out.

Exactly where in the blade is it? If it's close to the tip you may want to have it shortened instead of honing it out. besides. Honing may cause it to "climb" further into the blade if you're not careful.

I had a blade that had a crack midway and I carefully used a dremel and got the crack out while keeping the edge straight and even. Before that I had one that was near the tip that Bill Ellis took out for me. I'm glad Bill fixed it for me It's an awesome shaver now.

Glen F

1/8" to hone out would take serious time on any grit hone and would most likely cause the crack to expand further. Using rougher grits tends to go faster but does cause the crack to expand easier.

Unless you are willing to take the chance with this blade I would get someone with experience to try do it for you. Ask Joe Chandler or Bill Ellis or some other members here if they would be willing to try, they are better equipped and experienced in handling grinding of the blades.

No matter who does it there is always a chance that the crack will expand.

Thanks for all the advice guys. I'm going to see about Bill or Joe doing it. It looks so tiny I'm tempted to try it myself, but it would be a shame to screw it up.