Thread: Hollow Grind vs. Wedge

This may seem like a dumb question, but I’m trying to better understand why hollow grind razors are favored today over the wedge style of yester-years. I fully appreciate that sharpening a wedge is more difficult because more metal has to be removed during each sharpening session. This makes perfect sense. However, I sometimes come across an article that suggests that hollow grind razors are sharper than wedges. Similarly, the articles will sometimes say that wedges hold their edges longer. These statements do not make 100% sense to me.

1/ Sharpness - In the attached diagram, for two equally sized razors with equally thick blade stock, isn’t the angle BAC the same in both cases? If so, the two razors would be equally sharp, right? Or do authors really mean that hollow grind razors are better shavers (not necessarily sharper) because they are more comfortable due to less surface area creating drag on the face? (i.e. it’s a matter of nomenclature, interchanging quality of shave with sharpness.)

2/ Edge Durability – When a razor dulls, isn’t it the very tip of the edge that matters most? In the diagram, the edges would appear identical to me.

Sorry to be technical on a stupid item, but these particular aspects puzzle me. Thoughts? Please be gentle in your responses. Thanks.