Thread: 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.

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.

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.

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.

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

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