I was sent a straight razor by fellow member, David (@david of central florida ) who came across it in an antique store: a razor manufactured by Engelswerk F.W. Engels, (Friedrich Wilhelm Engels) 1892 -1943. The razor itself wasn't in too bad a shape—the blade was covered with substantial black grime (possible pitting beneath?), and the metal bolsters were pretty well beat-up. The celluloid scales had yellowed unevenly (exposure?), and were very grimy inside. I disassembled the scales and works on the blade as well as the battered bolsters. Re-pinned with stainless pins & washers, then reassembled after a thorough cleaning, sanding & polishing. The final product turned out pretty well. There's some rough areas of pitting, mostly near the spine, but overall, I'm happy with the blade's appearance. The scales regained a nice uniform ivory sheen, and the bolsters responded to some minor bending & polishing to return to their original (or close to) shape.
WOW truly remarkable, you do very nice work. it's night and day, from that tired ole razor it sent you, amazing.
Nice. Any before pics? I ask because my grandparents have a couple of old straight razors I will get one day. they are pretty beat up and I wonder if their is any hope for them.
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No ,Tad, unfortunately I had taken the razor apart before I realized I hadn't snapped a few before' pics. As David mentioned above, it was a rather 'tired old razor' that had seen some wear. The blade may originally had a square point, but someone along the way may have preferred a rounded tip & had it altered. From what I've read, the Engels have a good rep as outstanding shavers. I've never had the pleasure of using one. Once I get this one honed, I'll give it a go. Odds are, this one will go on the auction blocks, though. I've too any razors accumulating, and I'm trying to winnow out the REAL keepers.
With all your experience with straight razors now...if you had to pick ONE as your daily shaver what would it be?
Easy—though the field is getting closer. This one. Dubl Duck Goldenedge. Every shave is as smooth as the first one I've had since I got it back from Glen. It just takes and hold such a keen yet smooth edge. Great shaver. ..But there are some serious contenders (the C-Mon, Beau Brummel, Union Cutlery Spike, Case Red imp), which are all very much in the Bresnick style. I suppose I've developed a taste for those American 5/8-6/8 razors...
