[QUOTE=johnramos3030;737534I often let my beard grow out for a week or two, and I am not sure how well a straight razor will take off that much growth... any ideas from other heavy-bearded members? [/QUOTE]

A straight will usually take off quite a lot of beard with little or no trouble. winter of 09/10 I grew my bear out like Grizzly Adams, and when spring came I shaved it all off with a Frederick Reynolds wedge. IMO, heavy grinds are better for that kind of work.