Thread: Extra hollow for first straight?

I found a razor in the classifieds that I think I like, but I'm a little weary of the "extra hollow" grind. It seems I've read that the closer to a full wedge, the more forgiving it would be. As someone who has never shaved with a straight razor, should I pass on an extra hollow or is it not a very big deal?

My opinion would be to go for the extra hollow. While the thicker grinds are a bit more forgiving, the hollower grinds give more feedback and teach you to use proper technique. They also,IMO, easier to keep an edge on for a beginner.

I don't think it really matters. As long as it is shave ready and in the general area of 5/8 to 6/8 in size, learning how to use the razor will be much more of an issue than the grind of the razor itself. I have both grinds, and I'm not sure that a wedge grind is much more forgiving than a hollow grind. If you are new at this, I don't think the grind will matter to you much until you are well into straight shaving.

Any ,properly sharpened, quality steel razor will give a good shave.
There are arguments for going with a slightly stiffer grind, but there is nothing wrong with an extra hollow blade.
Starting with a middle ground grind, will possibly give you an idea of where you wanna go with your next razor.
The blades flexes less. That may be an advantage, but it is no big deal IMHO.

I started with a Dovo Bergischer Löwe and they don't come much more hollow than that
That worked out pretty good for me.

The amount of Hollow is more a preference. A beginner should not be concerned.

Of far greater importance is the sharpness of the razor, and the learning process in stropping and shaving. You should start
with a "shave ready" razor.

Thanks for the feedback. Would be much obliged if any of you experienced types could tell me if that crown and sword razor in the classifieds looks like a good deal for a beginner. I'd link it but I'm posting from my phone at a red light.

As a beginner, you and your face won't be able to tell the difference whether it's full hollow or wedge. I'd just pick a razor that catches your eye.

As a side note, I recently picked up a wedge razor after 5yrs of shaving with a full hollow. I really love the wedge as it produces such a smooth shave that I find myself choosing it over the full hollow.

If you've got the money to burn get one!!!

Originally Posted by CenTech

Thanks for the feedback. Would be much obliged if any of you experienced types could tell me if that crown and sword razor in the classifieds looks like a good deal for a beginner. I'd link it but I'm posting from my phone at a red light.

It is not clear from the ad whether the razor is claimed to be shave ready. You might ask that it be made shave ready if not already. Beyond that, it looks like a very good first step into straight shaving. Good luck!