Shim for ER 1912

[Tony'schin]

Hi everyone, I have read about shimming the ER to change the blade angle, I assume this will make the razor milder.
Could someone put up some "how to" photos of how it sits in the head, also of how to make a shim from a blade spine safely.
Thanks Tony

 

[Scotshave]

@Fergiebilly has given invaluable advice on shimming. Personally, I've never felt the need to use the method on any of my 1912s. However, I've used a rubber band shim when using my 1914/1919; not so much to change the shaving angle, but because it was built to accommodate different wedge-shaped blades back in the day, apparently.

I used two small elastic bands that children sometimes use to make bracelets and stretch them over the top of the blade; where the two grooves are at either side. This prevents any movement when using the razor. When I get home, I'll PM you an image, if that helps?

 

[Tony'schin]

That makes sense, am I right that the angle change makes them milder? Want to reduce the chance of nicking myself when I 1st use it.

 

[Scotshave]

I'm not sure, Tony, to be honest. I've found that with the usual care and getting the right angle, I've always had great shaves with the ER family. Although, I did use a stainless steel heavy handle on my 1924 once; and that did bite slightly.

 

[Palmolive fox]

Something of interest: https://www.theshavingroom.co.uk/community/index.php?threads/the-fergiebilly-shim.32513/

A great posting from @Fergiebilly

Hope this helps. B.

 

[TobyC]

That makes sense, am I right that the angle change makes them milder? Want to reduce the chance of nicking myself when I 1st use it.

The 1912 is a user friendly razor as is. Keep the cap close to your face and forget about the shim. Use the SS Personna GEM blade.

 

[Scotshave]

I think that, to those that have only come across them, they can look sort of...well, medieval. It can be a bit off-putting but, as you say, Toby, taking the usual care about angle and so on (which, to be honest, you'd exercise with any razor - vintage or new), they are great, intuitive shavers.

 

[Palmolive fox]

I think that, to those that have only come across them, they can look sort of...well, medieval. It can be a bit off-putting but, as you say, Toby, taking the usual care about angle and so on (which, to be honest, you'd be exercise with any razor - vintage or new), they are great, intuitive shavers.

+1,i totally agree.

 

[Tony'schin]

Gonna just have to man up and bite the bullet. Soon, very soon.

 

[Palmolive fox]

Gonna just have to man up and bite the bullet. Soon, very soon.

Grab it by the balls, and go for it!

 

[culcreuch]

I tried a shim at the start ......it makes the razor perform more like a featherweight. The newer models are designed for the current blades and do not require a shim and those are the razors reported as being mild shavers. I prefer the 1912 razors unshimmed now. ......as mentioned above just keep it close to your face.

 

[jimmyc]

I used a shim the first blade I used in a 1912. Then I forgot to shim it when I changed the blade.
I don't really think it made much difference to be honest, so I don't bother now

 

[TobyC]

Gonna just have to man up and bite the bullet. Soon, very soon.

They're nothing to be afraid of, I think you're in for a pleasant surprise. Just give it the same respect you would any razor.

 

[TobyC]

Grab it by the balls, and go for it!

None of mine have balls!

 

[Tony'schin]

None of mine have balls!

A bit like me then

 

[Tony'schin]

SOTD done. Excellent razors.