Thread: Do i need a 1/2 Hollow for first razor?

Okay i want to get started SR'ing lol. but on straightrazordesigns the 1/2 hollow dovo is sold out and has been for a month. should i just get a full hollow? Whats the difference?

One is halfway hollow & the other is hollow all the way,,



I don't see why you should need to wait on a half hollow, if you like the full hollow as far as budget, then get it. Maybe later on in your shaving journey, you will notice the difference.
In the beginning, you will be dealing with a lot of factors that will effect your shaving experience before the grind of the blade does.

Welcome aboard,,,,,

If they have the Ralf What it is an excellent choice.

The difference is in the grind The straight razor - Straight Razor Place Library . The 1/2 hollow has a beefier blade cross section than the full hollow. I shave with a number of different grinds and the end result is good so long as the blade is sharp. The feel is slightly different between grinds. I don't think the grind makes much of a difference in the outcome of the shave.

Bob

A full hollow is always a good choice for a first in my opinion because it will be easier to hone and perhaps even strop. With a thicker grind comes more steel which is more weight, which may very well be more difficult to manuever on a strop...you will be a good ways from hone buying a new blade from SRD. I haven't tried a Dovo but I can say the Ralf Aust is a very nice shaver. I got the 6/8ths and it has a bit of weight compared to my F.W.E. Special which is also 6/8ths. The difference there is scale material, wood vs celluloid. At this stage it's all preference so don't hesitate on any, jump in and bleed! I'm just kidding, take your time and be careful but don't overthink it, you'll go nuts.

I learned on a Extra Hollow Ground round tip. You can sauce with any of them with patience. Don't get frustrated that it takes so long to shave. When I started it took about 40 minutes. I can now shave in about seven minutes. The results are amazing and the sense of accomplishment when done are off the charts. I hope this helps, and enjoy the journey, ask many questions, and no question is dumb.

I waiting for my first razor, but looking for my second. Is there a significant difference in heft between a 5/8 and a 6/8? I like the feel of heavier things in all areas of my life. It seems to signify quality....

The Ralf Aust is a great choice if you are wanting to go new, but you can get a great deal on a razor by itself by paying attention to the classified section here! For your first razor, a full hollow is more forgiving and a litter easier to use IMO.
If you do want to order a new razor from straight razor designs (which is an excellent choice if buying new) I would recommend the beginner set that includes a strop, brush, and other goodies for not too much more.

Originally Posted by Caihlen

I waiting for my first razor, but looking for my second. Is there a significant difference in heft between a 5/8 and a 6/8? I like the feel of heavier things in all areas of my life. It seems to signify quality....

I have both and started out with a 6/8 round point. I think the most difference I notice is actual blade width and have to adjust my stroke angle accordingly. My latest razor, a Boker from SRD, was advertised as a 6/8 and when I measured it, it was a skosh over 6/8. No matter to me because I'm used to bouncing back and forth from a 3/8 to a 7/8 and everything in between, depending on mood and beard condition.

Originally Posted by Caihlen

I waiting for my first razor, but looking for my second. Is there a significant difference in heft between a 5/8 and a 6/8? I like the feel of heavier things in all areas of my life. It seems to signify quality....

Track down a 19th century Sheffield wedge. They are heavy and fun.