Thread: Contemplating wedges

Are wedges that much different from a str8? How different are they? Do they require different techniques? Is there any quality difference?

Depends what you call a wedge. Many people call quarter hollow wedges for example Wapienicas, and certain Le Grelot models and various Solingen blades. I find these are fairly similar to hollows, just heavier with less feedback. The extra weight can be pleasant with several days worth of growth.

Then you get true wedges and Henckel scale 2s, which are predominantly Sheffield origin, alot of vintage French ones also.

These are completely silent. They can be more challenging to hone as more often than not they are smiling blades to a degree and warped.

Bottom line is if your shaving technique is down, any grind will give you a great shave, as long as it is good steel and honed correctly.

In answer to your question, they are heavier with less feedback. Definitely worth trying IMHO. YMMV

I think heavier grinds are easier to shave with than full hollows. Since the blades don't flex, there is less of a chance that they'll bite you. The ones with softer steel (most Sheffields) are very forgiving and smooth shavers; the ones from harder steel (Swedish, German, American) can feel harsh or unforgiving if you don't use a light touch. At least, this is what I find.

Would you consider a wedge for a more advanced invdivudal?

Yes. You cannot use a wedge until you can grab this staken knife from my hand.

Originally Posted by jbcohen

Would you consider a wedge for a more advanced invdivudal?

I wouldnt. I think the second or third razor I got was a 7/8 W&B wedge from the classifieds here.

They're not harder to use, just different.

They are a different animal to hone though, as they are usually smiling blades and quite often are warped as well as Scipio says. Of my three, two were warped slightly and all three are smiling.

The only thing I can recommend is to get hold of one and see what you think!

Originally Posted by jbcohen

Would you consider a wedge for a more advanced invdivudal?

I don't think skill level matters. I'd recommend a wedge to anyone.

Originally Posted by holli4pirating

I don't think skill level matters. I'd recommend a wedge to anyone.

as opposed to a str8?

I enjoy my shaves off a wedge/semi-wedge when honed properly. It's the honing part for the older wedges that can be a PITA.

I think there are small differences and find that Hollow is the easiest to learn on. the wedge takes a different touch, and the hollow has more flex which can be foregiving.