Thread: Looking for advice on puma High Class

I'm looking at this Puma High Class (6/8 blade). I would appreciate advice. Is this a 1/2 hollow? Is this in good condition: much to clean it up? The stains look to be surface. There doesn't look like there is a problem with rust (didn't know how to check the blade at the pin); The scales seem OK. They snug up when opened. I'm looking to get into straight shaving, and from what I hear this is a good brand. Sorry if the pictures aren't good. I don't have much experience at photography.

Thanks

The High Class is a full hollow, at least mine is. From what I can see in the photos it looks good. You can clean it up with Windex and a paper towel without harming the gold wash if you don't rub too hard or too much. Any metal polish on the gold and it is gone.

If the blade and scales have no cracks and no bad chips in the blade or corrosion at the bevel that might go to Swiss cheese it would be a good one to start out with once it is pro honed. We don't do appraisals here so I can't comment on the price.

Jimmy is correct. it is full hallow.gl

yeah these are full hollows.
you'll probably have to decide between having 'staining/light pitting' or the gold wash.
on the plus side the honewear is not too much and is even, so absent cracks or major problems on the back side it should shave rather well after it's honed.

Originally Posted by gugi

yeah these are full hollows.

How do you tell the grind? From looking at the guide on the Wiki I thought it was a 1/2 hollow. I was hoping to get a 1/2 hollow, because I thought it would be easier to start out with. How would a full hollow be to learn?

Another razor I was thinking of was the Dovo best quality. How would this compare?

IMHO the Dovo and the Puma would be comparable if all things are equal. I've had both and both are good shavers. The grind shouldn't make much difference on the learning curve. Some folks with heavy beards like half hollow and wedges. But a good sharp edge, technique, and prep is the key to a good shave. I have used many different grinds and find most all to be good blades. I do lean to a Livi and a Chandler that I have. But I also love the smooth edge of my seven day set of Sheffields that are full hollow 6/8 blade.

For starters, I would recommend a 6/8. If this is a new adventure. get in cheap and decide if you want to upgrade..

Originally Posted by binder

How do you tell the grind?

I've had several of these and I believe I still have two in like-new condition.
I would take this razor to any current production dovo and almost all vintage razors, it's one of my favorites.