I have 2 razors that after a couple shaves I put away and used others. They were honed by some of the best on this site and came to me super sharp. I pulled them out and stropped them and I just can't get them sharp again. I do have a 12k naniwa stone but haven't used it. Thought I could get by with just stropping them. The question is as they sit, do they build up an oxidized layer that ruins the edge and will require me to take them to the stone?
Simple answer is, Yes. Reason being is that unless they were stored, with oil on the blade, there will probably be some oxidation. It might not be visible without good magnification. Try a few strokes on a pasted strop, then linen, then leather. That should bring it back. Unless the edges were damaged,.before storage.
Thanks DaltonGang. I did store them with oil on the blade and I treat the edges like a newly born baby. I dont have a pasted strop but I will give them another good stroping before I take it to the stone.
I store my razors with camphor crystals inside plastic pickle jars. The camphor sublimates and deposits an oil film on everything inside the jars.
Hmm, I've never heard of that. Interesting. Do you have any links to articles on this?? Sounds like it would be a fun read.
http://www.google.com/search?q=camp....34.mobile-heirloom-hp..1.14.1401.dJIsGlmeCfY It's one of those worst kept secrets.
Without a pasted strop, I'd suggest using a bolt of paper and chromium. It's easily the least expensive stand-in.
Yeah, you should still try to maintain them from time to time, because these fine blades need to be polished and oiled