I was putting a new razor blade in my knife today (OLFA brand razor knife) and noticed a fairly high amount of what appeared to be an oily substance on the new blades. They obviously pack the blades in a light oil substance to stop rusting or oxidation. I washed the blade in denatured alcohol and washed my hands a couple times to ensure none was transferred to my threads. I've never noticed this much oil on the blades in the past, but it's there, and if you don't wipe the blades down, the oil would definitely be transfered to your threads.

Just thought I would share this so other's are aware of the potential source of contamination.

Cheers
Harold

Thanks - you can find the same lubricant/rust preventative on single edge razor blades, too.

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Scalpel blades, if you can get them, are sharper, free of contaminants, and seem to be a higher quality of steel which lasts longer. Prices are usually pretty reasonable too.

Steve

Take a look at double edge razor blades as well. Sharper than the single edge blades.

Chris Richer
Iroquois ON