Beginners questions

Hello,


so I have been reading and trying to understand. From what I gather a full hollow is less forgiving but will give a much closer shave when I have this down pat. So would I be better off with a full hollow and learning with this from the get-go or starting out with say a half hollow and working up? As a newbie what length razor would you suggest?

I also see allot of nice expensive straight razors, some i'd love to buy. But part of my intent here is to collect vintage razors and I rather spend the money on something of vintage quality if you feel I can get just as good of razor ( or better ) for my money.

I would say check out the classifieds here you can pick up a good shaver for a decent price. Most "beginner" razors I found between were half and full hollow. I would suggest to take a look through the classifieds and see if you find one. Also ask the sellers how they shave and if they would recommend the razor for a newb. Who knows may end up buying a couple there in your budget to start with. Anyway I wish I had found those when I first started out but you live and learn. Hope this helps and good luck.

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Originally Posted by Desert

From what I gather a full hollow is less forgiving but will give a much closer shave when I have this down pat.

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I don't really agree with that. Some guys get better shaves from wedges, others from full hollows. I think the recommendation for newbies to look for a half hollow is simply because it's in the middle of the grind chart, and you won't know what you prefer yet. The half hollow will work for anybody.

I much prefer the shave I get from full hollow razors, but it's not because I've attained some level in technique that allows me to use them. They just work better for my skin and beard.
I can barely get a passable shave from most wedges that I've used.

This is definitely a YMMV deal.

With good technique and a properly honed razor you should be able to get a great close shave no matter the grind, so I really wouldn't say that full hollows have the market cornered in that department. As for beginners, nothing wrong with starting off with a full hollow, just requires a little more concentration.

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Originally Posted by Ryan82

With good technique and a properly honed razor you should be able to get a great close shave no matter the grind, so I really wouldn't say that full hollows have the market cornered in that department. As for beginners, nothing wrong with starting off with a full hollow, just requires a little more concentration.

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Agreed. I'm one of those guys that has from full hollow to a wedge in my arsenal...and I get good shaves from all of em! But maybe i'm just one of the lucky ones :) The most important thing is to get your first one proffessionally honed and shave ready. That gives you a jump on the game :gl:

I would suggest a half hollow grind to start with. Once you learn the proper technique, then you can try a full hollow grind and see how that works out. The classifieds on this site are great. You should be able to find a decent vintage razor in excellent condition.

Thank you guys:)