Thread: Straights for Heavy Beards?

I had my eye on a French razor that was advertised as for “Heavy Beards”
First , what makes a razor more accommodating (specific characteristics) for Heavy Beards?
Secondly , how does one define Heavy beards?

For me I am retired so the need to shave everyday is not called for. I would say on the second day my beard feels very prickly, and on the 3 rd day I need to shave, but I am fair of complexion and color wise my beard is light (probably gray now) . Back in the day, I wore a red tight curly reddish beard. Could never grow a ZZ Top beard due to the tight kind of curly whiskers.
Thanks all,
have a good one...
Harry

Advertising is just advertising. All you need is a sharp blade.
A heavier blade (wedge) can go through a whole lot of hair easier, but it can also go through skin easier if you aren't careful. So if you are new to SR, I'd suggest you learn on half hollow first. YMMV

I'm sure definitions of heavy beard vary, but I typically consider a heavy beard to be one with plentiful, large diameter, dark hair.

Unless your whiskers are like iron filings, any blade will do the trick, as long as it's properly honed, stropped and good to go! Good luck.

I think I have a beard like yours, coarse and curly. One perspective is that it will not matter what type of razor you use. Others might disagree, seeing that a 'heavier' grind is better suited for heavy beards. I do not like full hollows. I can shave with them, but they are sort of a pain in the ass for me. I have to be very precise in my cutting angle or it will not work. I do have a Thiers Issard which is full hollow. It is much harder steel and does not seem to flex as much as some of the vintage full hollows, but it is by far my least favorite. I have another TI 'Le Grelot' which is 3/4 grind, which makes it easier for me. The 3/4 is not quite a full hollow. One of my favorite razor (which I sold and I kick myself for doing so) was a Hart Steel razor. They are 1/4 hollow razors or a 'heavy' grind. I also have a 1/4 hollow custom from Max Sprecher which is also nice. No matter what grind, the razor needs to be 'shave ready.' With proper technique and a good edge your facial hair should be easily cut. It will almost surprise you.

A big Sheffield near wedge would take care of that beard no problem...

All you need is a sharp str8

Originally Posted by Phrank

A big Sheffield near wedge would take care of that beard no problem...

Yup, agreed

Never could understand what difference the grind makes, sharp is sharp.

Bob

I also have what I consider a heavy beard but it isn't curly. Any sharp blade will work, a heavy blade due to its weight (near wedge) seems to make the job a bit easier. For the most part the biggest difference between a near wedge and a full hollow is the full hollow makes more noise while you can barely hear a near wedge....thus the phrase 'Silence Of The Wedges'

Originally Posted by BobH

Never could understand what difference the grind makes, sharp is sharp.

Bob

Agreed - just posted my favorite shave vid on another thread about blade size, and think this one applies to beards as well: