Thread: Suggestions for a Newbie "Wedge" Razor?

Originally Posted by holli4pirating

There are numerous quarter hollows still in production. The vast majority of razors referred to as "wedges" are actually quarter hollows. I don't think I've ever actually seen a true wedge before.

Here is a true wedge: it is a GB, which needs new scales since the old ones disintegrated.

Originally Posted by RayG

Wacker has a 6/8 wedge that Jimmy reviewed. They are available new.

I don't know that it is a "true wedge" - one clue is that it has etching on the blade, but most of the old Sheffields aren't either. Anyway, it's the closest thing that is available right now, and the review seems favorable.

They are properly termed "near wedge". True wedge razors are your worst nightmare after the initial edge has worn down. That is why they went bye bye in the 1800s. The ones you refer to are definately closer to a wedge than to a quarter hollow. They have just enough hollowness to allow honing for a good period of time.

The one pictured above has just enough hollowness to it to allow honing for quite a while, (near wedge). This one has been honed quite a bit. A true wedge is just that - no hollowness to the grind at all.

John is dead to rights...
I have seen them stamped "Concave Wedge" also, just enough hollow to allow for honing.
True wedges are very, very, rare...

Here is what I have seen and I am sure there are more that I haven't

Wedge = Sides actually touch the hone if you don't use something on the spine to lift it, there is no concave or hollow...

Near Wedge/Concave Wedge = Just a very slight cut in the blade face to keep it off the hone.

1/8 Hollow = A slight cut in the blade face and a slight cut at the shoulder,

1/4 Hollow = we all have seen these

But back on track, any of the New/newer 1/4 hollows would be more than stiff enough to try out on the OP's beard...Or look for one of the older heavier grinds...

Originally Posted by Croaker

Here is a true wedge: it is a GB, which needs new scales since the old ones disintegrated.

As John says, that is not a true wedge.

Originally Posted by MichaelM

Hey Folks,

I've been shaving with a str8 for a few weeks, and have been making good progress. I've been lucky enough to have a my barber (a 50 year vet) give me some good tips. One thing he suggested that I try on my face/beard was a good wedge razor. I use a Dovo Special right now.

Any suggestions for a good wedge for a newbie? I'd like to get one from a reputable vendor as I can't get it shave ready myself.

Thanks.

-Michael

Hey Michael,
I have gotten a Wacker from John Crowley that is 6/8, wedge, round point. The only true Wedge (or near wedge) I could find, brand new. here's 'the link:

6/8 Wacker "Wikinger" Wedge Ground Round Point - stylized European cherry : Shaving Shop - luxury classic wet shaving products - straight razors

Check it out. I have fairly thick and coarse beard and this thing shaves like a dream. John Crowley is a very nice guy and does the honing before you get it too so you know It'll be shave ready.

Let me know if you find anything else (new)...I'd be interested.

Parenthetically: I have purchased a 150 yr old W&B (True Wedge) from the web recently and it is in the magic hands of "Max Sprecher" for restoration and rescaling. Will keep you posted when I get it in ~4-5 months.

Cheers,
-Robert