Thread: Half versus full hollow

I'm starting to look for my first STR8 and have read a couple of differing opinions about this subject. Some recommend a half hollow because it's edge would be more stable and potentially reduce nicking. The concern with a full hollow was the edge can actually flex while shaving and could cause more nicks and razor burn. Any thoughts on these potential problems? Thanks.

You have hit the main points. Don't know what else your really looking for.

To be honest with you if you have never picked up and used a straight razor ether will work fine for you. You will learn how to shave with that style of razor and overall you will probably end up with the same amount of nicks as you learn.

Hey Brenn,

Not everyone has trouble w/ the flex, but those that do seems to enjoy the more rigid blade. That was the case w/ me also. But one of the reasons the discussion is framed 'extra, full, 1/2' is that the heavier blades are far less available - especially in the harder steels (non-sheffield). Because they're more scarce, prices can be higher. To give others their due - yes, the extra hollows will shave as well, but that doesn't mean they're as easy to learn with.

Another variable with flex is that the larger blades - 7/8 are usually pretty rigid - even in the full & extra hollows. There are a few exceptions - Filly, I hear. 'Have a Wacker 7/8 and a 15/16 that measure .0075" - solidly in extra-hollow land. Neither flex. With these, I also get the heft of a beefy shank & spine that dampens uncontrolled or unintended movement.

I keep recommending getting together w/ other members that'll let you try their gear. That way you can get a feel for the differences w/out having to buy & sell a bunch of blades.

Personally, I don't think the grind matters as nicks and razor burn, I believe, are more attributable to poor technique as in too much pressure, dull blade and poor lather.

Bob

I think that a half hollow is a bit more forgiving of poor technique, which should get you better shaves faster. But, then again, a full hollow will push you harder to improve your technique faster because it may not be as forgiving.

I think it's best to think about what kind of learner you are and then choose a razor accordingly. Unless you see a razor you just have to have...

Originally Posted by holli4pirating

Unless you see a razor you just have to have...

That one, and this one, and, ohh ohhh here's one, and...........

The above advice is spot on, start with budget and what catches your fancy, just buy quality. Starting out you will learn on whatever you get, and if you are like many it won't be long before you get another.

Thanks all for your responses. More questions but first a little more info that may have some contribution. I have good finger dexterity and a steady hand but definitely want to start with something forgiving. I don't expect my first to be the only one but you never know. I'm willing to pay a little extra for the right one. I have a fairly large hand XL to XXL glove size. Also a beard on the lighter side (shave every 3 days on average).

Originally Posted by pinklather

Hey Brenn,
Another variable with flex is that the larger blades - 7/8 are usually pretty rigid - even in the full & extra hollows. There are a few exceptions - Filly, I hear. 'Have a Wacker 7/8 and a 15/16 that measure .0075" - solidly in extra-hollow land. Neither flex. With these, I also get the heft of a beefy shank & spine that dampens uncontrolled or unintended movement.

Most recommendations I read for beginners is to find a smaller sized around 5/8 or 6/8. Is this because of ease of handling a lighter blade?

Originally Posted by holli4pirating

I think that a half hollow is a bit more forgiving of poor technique, which should get you better shaves faster. But, then again, a full hollow will push you harder to improve your technique faster because it may not be as forgiving.

But in the long run (after reasonable learning and technique is gained) will one give you a better shave over the other? I'm willing to sacrifice a little skin if the full hollow razor if the better overall shaver.

With the modern manufactured razors, there is actually very little difference between the full and half hollow in my opinion. There is not much flex at all with something like a Dovo Best Quality or something similar in the 5/8. Might be a little more heft, but not all that much perceptibly. I think a new person would have trouble telling the difference when shaving. The biggest obstacle for new people is to learn the proper angle for the razor to cut comfortably so many times it is easier for the new person to keep a 5/8 razor more vertical as needed for shaving than a 7/8 until your technique improves. What ever you end up with, I would recommend reading a couple of stickies from the beginner section too.

http://straightrazorpalace.com/begin...ead-first.html

http://straightrazorpalace.com/begin...icipation.html

As with every aspect of this sport, you will find as many opinions as there are members so YMMV.

Have fun.

Originally Posted by Brenngun

But in the long run (after reasonable learning and technique is gained) will one give you a better shave over the other? I'm willing to sacrifice a little skin if the full hollow razor if the better overall shaver.

With good technique, the only part of the razor that affects the quality of the shave is the quality of the edge. All the rest is just personal preference.