Agreed, I just don't see how washers on the inside would be of benefit. Keep in mind that my experience with straight razors is limited to two vintage models (but I plan to look for other old-timers in need of restoration that I can include in my rotation).

They're nice-looking razors!

I did not put washers between the blade and the scales (only on the outside, under the peened ends of the pin).

That is a nice-looking razor!

One more thing:

When you're ready to file down the old pin heads to remove them, I recommend putting a little electrical tape on the scales next to them. That way, you won't scratch the scales in a moment of inattention, as I did.

<snip> This brings up another question - what tool do you use to cut the pins, and how do you smooth off the ends of the pins before you put the washers in place and peen them? Hey Gary, I just used the tools I had kicking around the garage: a pair of side cutters, a fine 1/4" triangular file, a on...

John, did you select the individual samples or was it a cross-your-fingers-and-hope-for-the best type of deal? Was it from a single vendor or did you go to each vendor and pick one?

Great advice - thank you!

Thanks Olle!

On a whim, I looked at their brushes and filtered on 'Horse Hair'. I was surprised to see the large number of results returned; I can see me expanding my brush collection.

Thanks Chris, I'm encouraged by your feedback.

Thanks Olle. Do you have a link to the article?

We all do what works for us and what gives us pleasure. And each individual determines these for himself. - Murray You've nailed it. My facial lawnmowers did an OK job but I just grew tired of having those electric contraptions buzzing in my face every day so I started migrating to wet shaving, ult...

Perhaps fitting for this time of the year, I managed to get a couple of pretty decent shaves from my "new" Frankenrazor this past weekend. To back up a little bit: I bought a 4000/10000 stone from our local House of Knives and my first task was to dress the stone. After that, it took me three iterat...

Thanks, but I've located an unusual source: Princess Auto. I bought some bronze brazing rods for $15 and soaked one in water to loosen the flux - et viola, I have more material than I can hope to use in a lifetime. I went to the local hobby store to get some teeny, tiny washers.

My next project is to pick up a couple of stones and try to hone this thing on my own. I'll keep you updated on that process and how it shaves.

Well, I've finally finished - I've removed the hideous scales from the Premier razor, cleaned up and buffed the blade, and installed the scales from my JR Torrey. It's my first attempt at restoring a straight razor, and while it was a definite learning experience (i.e. I made a couple of mistakes) I...

The scales from the JR Torrey have a new home on my Premier blade! See viewtopic.php?f=18&t=57300

Unfortunately, the edge is bowed such that it cannot be honed (I specifically looked at the edge but evidently I didn't look closely enough). I'll be using the scales and pairing them with another blade. Will keep you updated.

Thanks Gary! I hadn't thought of Maggard's, and to make the shipping costs worthwhile I might have to buy some soap while I'm at it.