I recently purchased from an E-Bay seller 2 Gem Razors. A Micromatic Open Comb, and a "push button type." It appears that the push button may still have an old blade stuck in it, and I cant figure out how to get it to open. Any suggestions from the Gem experts?
Gem help please
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It has a front and rear button. One of them opens the top and other closes it. Then pull the blade slightly back and out. It has 2 hooks that hold the blade in place on the 2 front sides(left and right) Its much easier then I described. If the top doesn't lift up then its defective
To open it, you push the button from the back side, the front to close it. If it has a buildup of crud, it could be stuck. You should be able to push the button and gently lift the cap open.
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- #4
Would anyone recommend using a pair of pliars? I'm a little concerned because it looks like the old blade is still in place. If I get it open, I'll scrub it (and the working Micromatic) with Clorox soft scrub, and then soakthem in 91% rubbing alcohol.
Scrubbing Bubbles is excellent
True, and may very well free up the mechanism if given a good soak in the "juice" from the foam. Another option, if available, would be a session in an ultrasonic jewelry cleaner. I have one for the express purpose of cleaning particularly nasty razors.
Pliers!!! because of any contamination or because of a stuck mechanism? As mentioned above, use SB or other liquids as a soak to remove any crud if you still can't get the razor open. I use Marvicide for cleaning and disinfecting myself.
Because of the opening mechanism, it would be dificult to open the razor with a tool.
Because of the opening mechanism, it would be dificult to open the razor with a tool.
Correction...make that I use Marvicide for cleaning and disenfecting, (note the comma) myself.
Correction...make that I use Marvicide for cleaning and disenfecting, (note the comma) myself.
I was about to comment on how that would be a little harsh on the skin.
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- #10
I thought pliers might be more gentle than the Sawzall.
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- #11
I finally got the razor to open using Scrubbing Bubbles, Vinegar, and Rubbing Alcohol. Funny thing it looks like it has never been used, I think the mechanism is just very stiff. Any thoughts on some WD-40 to loosen up the button?
not wd40.
If it needs lubrication at all I would use mineral oil, or valve oil if you play.
If it needs lubrication at all I would use mineral oil, or valve oil if you play.
Agreed! Don't use WD-40. Mineral oil works. Some brands of Teflon lube work too, but I can't promise that they'll all be nice to your skin.
WD-40 + plastic = Bad
Use a silicone based lubricant or a water based lubricant. You can buy spray silicone very cheaply in the local hardware store. Water based, on the other hand, is sold , usually, as "massage oil."
Use a silicone based lubricant or a water based lubricant. You can buy spray silicone very cheaply in the local hardware store. Water based, on the other hand, is sold , usually, as "massage oil."
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- #15
Sorry guys, I went ahead and used some WD-40 on the push button and the spring loaded mechanisim. Don't know how it will affect the razor long term, but the button is now operating smoothly. When I received the razor it was completely frozen. I will probably wash it again with scrubbing bubbles, some more alcohol, and maybe use just a drop of mineral oil--or perhaps shave oil to keep it lubricated. Anyway, I can't wait to give this SE razor a try. I ordered some Personna se shaving blades, since the ones that came with the box looked to be about 50 years old. So, I will try the GEM Pushbutton and the Open Comb Micromatic and report back.
Make sure you get the WD40 out. That stuff causes rust. The pushbuttons are very nice so stop messing with it. But I am glad it works. Nothing like an SE shave and Gems rule
Just as a note, castor oil has been used for well over a hundred years to oil straight edge blades. It is also used as a skin oil. A great combo when considering what type of oil to use as a lubricant for a razor.
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