Foxhole Radios and Marlin Razor Blades

[bcarusella]

The razor blade division of Marlin Firearms ran a campaign in 1944 - 45 centered around a “foxhole” radio receiver that a soldier had made at Anzio using one of their blades. It got a lot of publicity and from what I understand the campaign was a success.

I’m looking for anything related to the campaign, including a better copy of the picture I’m attaching or any of the display material used. Unfortunately the marlin razor division is long gone and none of their records were archived. Let me know please if you have anything related to this campaign.

Thanks!
Sincerely,
Brian Carusella

[Third Herd]

I don't know anything about that Marlin razor blade campaign. But, in the 1950's a Superman comic book showed how to make a radio using a blue razor blade. When I was gone in the Air Force my mom got rid of two big boxes of comic books so I don't know what issue it was. The razor blade functions like a crystal, like the old crystal set radios.

[bcarusella]

It was in Superboy #6 (1950) originally, and it was reprinted at least twice after that. I have a scan if you would like to see it.

[Third Herd]

bcarusella, yes I would like to see a scan. I remodeled a bathroom several years ago in my 1930's house and when I pulled out the medicine cabinet out came razor blades, kept a few blue blades in a coffee can.

[bcarusella]

Here it is. Best of luck if you decide to build one!

[Jack's Son]

Hi, and welcome to the forum! looks as though you have settled right in....enjoy. :thumbsup:

[Third Herd]

Thanks, for the scan, I'll have to try it after I find out where my crystal sets and headphones are stashed.

[bcarusella]

Still looking for this, in case it shows up somewhere!