I think I'll call it "RADzilla"

[JonM]

I just got back from a local antique mall with the absolute largest straight razor I've ever laid eyed on. Yes, you're reading that tape measure correctly. This monster is a full 1 5/16" at its widest point and the blade has 3 1/2" of cutting surface. And, yes... this sucker is heavy. For $10 I figured that it is at least an interesting curiosity - I'd probably be hesitant to actually shave with the thing. The tang is marked "Manufactured for the United States ______" (I can't make out the last word). I can only imagine that the reaction on my face when I opened up this beast must have been priceless.

 

[Shutterbug57]

Can't wait to see it all shined up, ready to shave with new or reworked scales. Pretty cool.

 

[jpcwon]

Oh man, that's gonna look AWESOME when it's all fixed up! looks like a perfect candidate for a restore!

 

[Doc226]

That is not a razor, that is a mini hatchet.

 

[global_dev]

wow

 

[Arkamedius]

Nice find!!

 

[JonM]

I've gotten a positive ID on the manufacturer over at SRP. It was made by E L & Co. I've also cleaned it up a bit with some light metal polish. Interestingly, it revealed some etching in the blade that was hidden before. I've tweaked the contrast to make it stand out more.

 

[Seraphim]

Awesome!

 

[AjaxLepinski]

You can flip burgers with that thang!!!

 

[Obiwan]

Not sure if it will be able to be restored. Might not be enough metal to work with, lol. Congrats!

 

[JonM]

It's cleaning up fairly well too. Here's what I've got so far with just a little polish & elbow grease.

 

[Seraphim]

Knock that razor against the faucet, and the faucet will be the one with the ding in it!

 

[JonM]

Here is a closer look at the etching. Are these Masonic symbols?

http://i.imgur.com/tQYw2Yd.jpg

*Edit*

Yes, they are. Here is a modern incarnation.

I can make out the sun, candles, star of David, snake, and so on.

 

[Wullie]

Neat old razor you found and darn sure worth the price.

Here's an idea of what yours used to look like. Etching isn't quite the same, but it was done in the same style.

Mine is a just a paltry 9/8 Greaves and an AWESOME shaver.

 

[JonM]

Neat old razor you found and darn sure worth the price.

Here's an idea of what yours used to look like. Etching isn't quite the same, but it was done in the same style.

Mine is a just a paltry 9/8 Greaves and an AWESOME shaver.

That's a beautiful razor you've got there. You're right about the design too. While not identical, they are very close. On the other hand, given your choice of background, I'm sure you'd know better than I.

At this point, my main concern is how to remove the remaining corrosion without harming the etching.

 

[Wullie]

Thank you, and yes, my razor and I both know the "secret hand shake." LOL

That type of etch is extremely difficult to clean without losing it. I'd suggest using a No2 pencil. Use the lead end to scrub the corrosion. It will not shine where the rust has been nor will scratch what's left of your etch. When you get tired of "writing" on the blade, wipe it with a soft cloth and then lightly oil it. Let it sit a few days and try it again.

Somebody let that beauty go downhill and I doubt there is much you're going to be able to do other than stop the loss.

Give it a shot and see what happens. Looks like the edge on that darling is salvageable and it should make an awesome shaver.

 

[oakeshott]

Could that be as old as early 18th Century? Older?

 

[GreekGuy]

Could that be as old as early 18th Century? Older?

Based on the tang and blade style, my guess is mid 19th century

 

[oakeshott]

Nick,
Thanks. I meant early 19th Century. Just got back from a fancy Manhattan fundraiser poorer in funds and richer in wine. Time to go to bed.

Are there even many razors still useable that date back older than that?

 

[GreekGuy]

Are there even many razors still useable that date back older than that?

Absolutely. I have one from the early 19th century, and members here have ones from the 18th century.

Truth be told, however, they are fun to use for historical purposes. Steel working has certainly gotten better since then. They aren't bad per se, but they aren't likely to be anyone's best shaver