[timberrr59]

Does anyone know what kind of insect it is that eats horn scales? Are they worms, maggots, or what? All of my horn-scaled razors have insect damage. The insects are long gone without trace except for the holes and gnash marks. Do they only eat fresh horn or do they eat old seasoned scales also? Blade oil and soap do not seem to deter them. We can't seem to have anything natural, just stuff made out of oil! I know termites eat wood. There goes the plans for wooden scales!...

[mbhodges]

Would you post some pictures of the damage. I have some friends back home who might be able to identify and advise.

[timberrr59]

I do not have a decent camera with enough resolution to show the damage. Whatverer did the damage makes holes from almost 1/8 inch in diameter and smaller. Random holes I can live with, but when they merge and large areas are destroyed, that really bugs me! They must be maggots. After all, scales are just horns from a dead cow or ox. Maggots eat dead stuff. (Maggots are used to eat dead flesh from wounds. Medics used them in the trenches in WWI to clean wounds. They use them today for the same purpose). Well and good, for that; however, I wish that the razor makers of old had applied some form of repellant for horn razor scales.

[JimmyH-AD]

They are maggots. The insect, I don't recall what kind, lays the eggs and the babies devour our precious horn scales. I am pretty sure Phil Krumholz goes into this in his straight razor book . I read a friend's copy so I am not sure if that is where I read it.

[bevansmw]

Aren't maggots just baby flies?

[JimmyH-AD]

Originally Posted by bevansmw

Aren't maggots just baby flies?

I don't know the dictionary definition and I am too lazy to look it up I have seen what I would call maggots that came from other flying bugs.

[bg42]

I dont know what type you have but here in Australia we have little black beetles I know because the little buggers got into my supply of buffalo ,goat and deer anlter , a quick squirt of baygon solved the problem ,I dear say that the cause of your bites would be something similar
kind regards Peter

[thebigspendur]

Also don't forget the "mouses". They love to nibble on them too.