So we talk about the blades themselves mostly for obvious reasons but I was curious what others believe is the scale mountaintop. If one was inclined to replace basic black scales on a favorite razor, what would you seek? As always pictures are encouraged. I really like the look of honey horn scales but am interested in what others think.
This is all personal choice. I purchased a razor (knowingly) with compromised celluloid scales. The blade was exceptional. I originally built new scales from wood (2nd pic). I thought the scales turned out nice and the razor looked good, but I really prefer a more traditional look. I purchased a set of horn scales and replaced, using the horn in place of the wood. I also incorporated a third pin, to replicate the original.
Its personal taste at the end of the day, These are some I have done I like them but I dont expect them to be liked by all. I hope they have given you some ideas or inspiration as to what you want. Above is Blonde Horn. Above is Acrylic Above is Camel bone for a more traditional look, the wedge is with Titanium and poly carbonate plastic
Thanks, I like the Bone ones best, It took some time to thin them down by hand and finish them also by hand, the wedge/spacer for me works well, more of a classic with a slight twist. Im not making any scales at the moment as its just too cold for now, I tend to do most of it outside as I have limited space,
Check out these tortoise shell look scales from my restore a few years back: http://theshaveden.com/forums/threads/new-scales-for-barbersurgeon.52241/ I’m very pleased with the results!
I like to match the material to the razor and time period Now personally I like some Bling Bling stuff
I am still very new to this and trying to learn what I can about all of what is available. I sent my Wade & Butcher to Glen ( @gssixgun) and after a discussion on the phone I decided to go with his recommendation of the Honey Horn Scales. I think they turned out awesome! I am glad to have kept that one as he suggested more in line to being period correct. I have seen some really cool looking scales on some razors since getting into this and I have seen some that just do not seem to “fit” the razor. And I have seen several from a few guys who make custom razors like Mike Martinez, Jerry Stark and Snail Forge that I like the way they do their scales as well and fits their “style”. I look forward to seeing many more awesome razors on here and learning what I can. Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Here are a few from my collection...real "pre-ban" elephant ivory scales. Number 6 is from a seven day set. The last one is made from fossilized walrus tusk:
