Geo Wostenholm & Son 8/8 I.X.L Wedge

[Timwcic]

It has been a while since my last SR restro, time to give it a go. I scored this 8/8 Wosty near wedge with freakishly large home made scales last month. I was going to reshape the scales. It was not until I broke down and started cleaning that I discovered it was a I.X.L. A 8/8 I.X.L. WEDGE—-YEAH BABY!!!. This needed some scales that were as special as the blade. Chose to use swordfish bill that I have been saving for something worthy. Was gentle with the sanding on the blade. Just enough to remove move the the funk but leave some of the patina. Did not want to virginize the steel. Even went the long road and made a lead wedge to keep period. After shaping the scales, they were wet sanded to 600 grit. Hit them on a wheel with white compound. Changed wheels and finished with carnauba wax. A few dry fits, a few tweaks and assembled with Ni-Ag pins.

 

[Slawman]

I love big blades like yours. I have 3 or 4 big ones also. I like the way they take an edge and the way they shave.
Slawman

 

[jaro1069]

Are big blades better ? I hear you guys talk of the big ones but never personally found or tried one yet. Should I bolo for one ?

 

[drmoss_ca]

I really like them, but not everyone does (Roger finds 4/8 suit him well). You owe it to yourself to try and find out. You can't go wrong with a nice heavy W&B or the like.

 

[Slawman]

I have a thick heavy beard and when I trim it up I love my 9/8" W and B near wedge. It just feels good!