Thread: Ouch, my vintage razors turned black! :-(

I think it actually looks pretty good.

I would try the MAAS or other metal polish first, I have a few razors that do have some 'swirl marks' from 2000 grit wet/dry sandpaper (used wet).

In experimenting with vinegar, I found that the blackening from cold vinegar treatment would wipe off with a soft cloth and Simichrome (any metal polish would work). When I started using hot vinegar, the blackening would be much deeper and would not wipe off. It still comes off very easily with a buffer.

So... I would try a cloth and metal polish first. If that doesn't work, buffing with a high grit (or sanding with a high grit) should work just fine. I wouldn't go to lower grits until it's established that higher grits don't work. (start with what does the least damage to the blade, and move down if it's not working)

Oh, and FWIW, I think the blade does look pretty good as is.

I tend to agree with HNSB...My rule of thumb is to use the least abrasive method first--that is, metal polish and a cloth. If that does not work, then move to the finest grit sandpaper you can find.