Thread: Hanging Hair Test, parlor trick or useful?

Originally Posted by gssixgun

yep almost once per year

http://straightrazorpalace.com/honin...-talk-hht.html

Yes, this HHT topic comes up regularly. Just like "my razor is dull" threads, or a host of other often repeated questions. Even though other threads exist about the HHT, I speak up because I think it a valuable conversation for new newbies.

I use it a lot. One reason is because my hair is suitable for this test. I only use it following the 8000 grit stone. Then it tells me if the razor is ready for a shave test. I use it in conjuction with the TPT.

I want to vote:

Neither. It's just a waste of time.

the only test that matters is
the shave test.

But before you put the razor to your face you want a way to test the edge. HHT is the best for me.

I find it useful, and prefer to use it with thick hair. It's not the only determining factor of sharpness in my book.

Originally Posted by Kees

But before you put the razor to your face you want a way to test the edge. HHT is the best for me.

Kees,
That's basically what I do.
Patrick

The only test that I can comprehend the results is the shave test.

The HHT works well with some hair but not with others. The big question for me is: does cutting or popping a hanging hair make it a good predictor of a great shave and the answers are mixed. Personally, the only test I use is the shave. You'll know in about 5 seconds whether or not its honed right.

Shaving with a blade may be the ultimate test, but it is of little use to someone new to straights whose technique is not yet well-developed. That's why Newbies continually ask about the HHT. They would like to have a test for sharpness independent of the shave. As tests prior to a shave go, the HHT is as close as we have at this point.

Originally Posted by ace

As tests prior to a shave go, the HHT is as close as we have at this point.

Some of the more follicularly challenged use the AHT (arm hair test)