How to Sharpen Disposable Razors During Long-Term Survival
Disposable razors get dull pretty quickly, and it doesn’t take a long time for supplies to run out during a survival situation. While it is easier to care for blades from old-time razors by stropping them with a leather strip, you can also extend the life of disposable alternatives as well. Let’s take a look at a couple of tricks that you can put to the test now and take full advantage of during a crisis later.
Using Jeans
One of the easiest thing to do is use your jeans as a makeshift strop. Simply lay one of the pant legs flat on a surface as if you were going to do some ironing. Then, swish your razor in a small bowl of soapy water. Take the razor, place the blade against the jeans and pull in the opposite direction that you would use while shaving. This will help to remove tiny nicks and deformities in the metal and smooth things out. It will also help to remove debris that accumulates on the surface over time.
Using your Forearm
Many people have reported how using their forearm has worked on their disposable razors as well. Use the top of your forearm, away from veins and tender flesh. Extend it outward and pull the razor in the opposite direction you would while shaving. This will prevent you from getting cut, and it will also take advantage of your arm hair and outer layer of skin to smooth over the blades. This really does work. Just make sure that you wash the blade beforehand.
Using a Smooth, Hard Surface
You can also do the same thing along a smooth and hard surface such as what you find on some rocks, wood and even cement floors or walls. Gently pull the razor in the opposite direction of the shave and repeat a few times. The trick is to avoid using too much force that can actually damage the blade further.
In all cases, pull the razor for about 10-20 strokes before washing again with soapy water. Test it out on your face or legs, and you will be amazed at the results in most cases. Some people have reported being able to reuse their razors for upwards of two years simply by repeating these steps as the need arises.
Preserving the Razor
You can also benefit from taking advantage of a couple of tricks that will help to keep the razor in good condition. One of the biggest things that destroys the quality of razor blades is moisture. Rinse and dry your razor after each use, and you can significantly extend its shelf-life, and this small step can reduce the need to recondition the blades so often.
Another trick is to put some lubricant on the blade between uses as well. Avoid chemical or industrial sprays such as WD-40, because you don’t want those chemicals getting into nicks in the skin as you shave. However, some cooking oil, KY or similar products or even petroleum jelly will get the job done.
Try these tricks out for yourself, and feel free to share any others that you know. These simple solutions can help you to avoid having to worry about stocking up on large supplies of razors, and they can save you a fortune as well. While your blades and razors will need to be replaced sooner or later, making them last as long as possible will give prove to be very beneficial out in the field during a SHTF situation or major crisis.
