Thread: Hello peoples. I am new to this.

Hi. My name is Allen, and I am a 31 year old living in Arkansas. I have just recently started up using the straight razor, and have picked up a few. I now have a Wapi, a peter hahn, and one that I have no idea of. I am trying to figure out what is the best blade for my type of facial hair. I have very thick facial hair, and thus far the Hahn has done the job the best, but I would like some impute about what everyone here thinks. Thanks.

Welcome to SRP. You'll find this forum to be a wealth of information and knowledge. What size razors are you using? For blade recommendations, unfortunately it can be as simple as different strokes for different folks. You may just have to experiment with the different blade widths and grinds to find a blade that will suit your needs. Though I have seen some members recommend the larger blades (6/8 and up) for new shavers as the weight of the blade can help with your passes. I'm sure other members will give you info you'll find beneficial. Best of luck.

For heavier thicker beards try using a full wedge. Im 100% Italian and I have thick coarse stubble. My full wedges tear through it. Give it a shot.

Greetings Allen. Welcome to SRP.

+1 on the previous advice. Try a wedge straight razor. Razors of this type are frequently for sale in the SRP "Classifieds." Perhaps a 5/8-6/8 Wade & Butcher (vintage) would be perfect for your beard.

Just my 2 cents.

Take care--and smooth shaving...

Hello, Allen:

Welcome to Straight Razor Place. The advice from these gentlemen is on target. I might add, the 6/8" would suit you well. Also, I like a wedge for the heavier beard. Yet, most of my razors are full hollow, and even though I have a heavy, Middle Eastern beard, I seem to do all right with them. Your preference for a specific grind will develop along with your straight razor skill.

Regards,
Obie

Welcome Allen---Also you'll find that the answers will come over time and experience. It's a hard question to answer because there are so many variables involved. One very good thing to do is go over to the classifieds and have Lynn, Sham, Glen etc hone one or all of your razors and you'll be amazed at the difference in your shaving experience. It's not very expensive and with stropping before use you can shave with your razors for several months before needing them honed again.
Check the beginners Wiki for a lot of great information!

Using a heavier grind might make things easier for you as you learn however the size and/or grind of a razor does not have to be mated to your beard type. If you have a proper sharp razor and your skills are honed it should make no difference what razor you use. It a matter of preference as to what you like to use really.

I would just say to someone starting out buy what you like and just use it.

Originally Posted by jpm7676

For heavier thicker beards try using a full wedge. Im 100% Italian and I have thick coarse stubble. My full wedges tear through it. Give it a shot.

Same background & stubble here but for me its all about the steel & not so much the grind.
The OP's Hahn may well shave better than the stiffer Wapi due to better edge durability.