Advise on my second razor
After a few weeks with my 5/8 full hollow Boker I realize that one blade will not be enough. At some point using this blade everyday its going to get dull and will need to be rehoned. And while getting a honing stone interest me, I think I'll hold off on that hobby for awhile. So while the first blade is sent out I'll need a backup blade.
Being a noob still, I recognize that I may not really know what preference I may actually have, but I have noticed that the full hollow provides me with a lot of feedback, perhaps too much. I seem to stop my stroke at times because the blade feels like the blade is pulling when (at least my cheek tells me it isn't).
Questions:
#1) Will a 1/4 or 1/2 hollow provide less feeback on the blade or just more weight?
#2) Will jimps simply improve the grip or will they provide more feedback to the fingers?
#3) Cosmeticly I like the thumb notch on a blade but I dont' see that very often as an option on the vintage blades. Where there particular brands that used thumb notches or is this more of a "modern" 1950 or later design?
By all means - try something different
Sizes and grinds give a very different feel, though I'd say the quality of the edge probably colors how we experience any given razor more than we'd like to admit. The steel also gives a very different feel. Sheffields have a distinct feel - especially in the heavy grinds. Like most everything else - people swear by or at them.
It sounds like the exchange program w/ whipped dog is very well aimed. I don't like the selling routine much. I hate the idea of having to buy one of each to see if that's my preference. I keep harping for members to connect w/ each other in their local areas and try each other's stuff - to minimize all this buying and selling, which often drains the funds.
Heavy grinds and feedback. Yes, the heavies have less, but don't buy the statement that the wedge has no feedback. The edge and the steel seem to determine whether they do or not. The harder steel wedges with a thin bevel & smooth edge will give audible and tactile feedback.
Thumb notch: I love 'em too, though I only have one now. The whole ergo preference is tougher to solve - 'cause blades that shave wonderfully, often don't have the attributes you like in the ergos. The best example for me was a Henckels I recently sold, and a Genco I'll likely never sell. The shanks are jimpless, thin, short, and more work to have a positive grip on. But the edges and shaves are just killer. With big hands, I like some size and weight in the shank, jimps all over, and a notch if I can get it. The only way to be sure you can get all the attributes is to buy a custom. Other than that, it can be a long search. You'll sometimes read a post where honemeister/vendor finally finding a blade he's searched for - for over a year or more. 'Seems we all have those blades we'd like.
Enjoy trying the other sizes/grinds. For edges, I'd say to connect w/ others also. Try a coti finish, an escher/thurry, a jnat.
And have fun while you do it!