SMF

And it’s clear that some idiot didn’t store them properly after some years of neglect... A few small surface rust spots here and there, superficial, nothing deep. What’s the best way to go about restoring their former shaving glory from this long standing SMF’er who recently rediscovered that he misses straight razor shaving?

If it's superficial pitting only, you have the option of metal polish, rising for deeper pits to using some strop paste (green chrome, diamond paste) as a polish, or if more serious, a progression of sandpapers being careful not to cut yourself. I'd keep away from a Dremel unless you are confident and experienced with it. Start simple and mild and only get more aggressive if you have to. While rubbing the blade, try keeping it pressed on a flat surface (sheet of glass, the back of a hone) so that you are less likely to catch the edge either with your cloth or your finger.

C.

Is there any reason for black coating a blade (e.g., Boker) other than aesthetic? Advantage or detriment?

Only for appearance.

Any experience with the Hart Blue Steel? Appears one of a kind. I wonder if blue steel means higher maintenance . .

No, I wasn't aware they had a blue steel. Blued like a gun, I suppose?

check it out -- intriguing

[url][https://www.baxterofcalifornia.com/blue ... razors/url]

Thanks for reminding me of this one. I seem to recall it being offered there about 8 or 9 years ago. I am wondering if there are any reviews or ratings posted somewhere.

Looks like an ordinary Hart with, presumably, some bluing. Now I like Harts (I've got seven 6/8 including the prototypes of the original and the MkII, and a couple of 7/8), but I don't think the bluing would add anything except for the need to have to use tape to stop the finish wearing off the spine.