Thread: Straight or Swept?

Originally Posted by SpockIOM

Hi Guys

Well I've finally managed to save enough money for a couple of decent razors after being ripped of for a pair of RSO's.

I've seen a few affordable vintage razors in different styles at several reputable sources, but before I part with my hard earned cash I just wondered whether there was any concensus on whether a beginner should start with a straight/parallel blade, a swept blade or if it doesn't really make any odds either way.

Any thoughts or advice will be greatly appreciated!

Cheers

Steve

Thought.....

With modern hones a razor with a linear edge is
the easiest to keep "shaving sharp". We tend to lap
our hones flat and honing methods take advantage of that.

A razor that has a smile can require special attention
to hone and strop correctly. By special I do not
mean difficult just different.

Since you have encountered things that might resemble
an object with nearly the shape of a razor let me
point you to the Classified at the top of this page
and to pay attention to the sponsor banners on the top and sides
of the forum that sell shave ready razors. In the Classified are also
razor honing services that are a bargain.

The WiKi (again see the top of this page) has beginner
information pages as well as other good information.


And welcome...

SpockIOM,

As a honing newbie, I can certainly attest that the non-swept (parallel) blades are much easier for me to hone than swept blades.

I have an old swept no-name near-wedge which I use to practice honing this type of blade on, and it has driven me to distraction at times

Slightly swept blades like the C135 TIs are just about OK for me !

Shaving wise, I have not found that swept blades shave any better for me than the non-swept (parallel).

Have fun !

Best regards

Russ