Thread: Fulll hollow v. Half hollow

So i have been searching online for my first brand new straight razor, and i have always wanted a dovo, looking at the different types of dovo i always see half/full hollow. What is the difference. I one better, do you get a closer shave. Is one easier to sharpen/maintain.
Thanks,

As a new shaver I think you will like a half hollow better. My first new razor was a Dovo full hollow and I have yet to develop the skills to master it. I have some half and quarter hollow that give me a much more comfortable shave.

sorry i am asking all of this beginner questions i just dont wanna mess up lie my first razor buy.

From my experience, as a new shaver try anything but a wedge, and make sure you get one that's professionally honed. (Unless your like me, and came to straight razors in the quest for sharpness!) Not that you couldn't shave with a wedge, but a hollow ground razor will give you more feedback then a thick heavy wedge.

Most of us will recommend a full hollow 5/8 or 6/8 razor for a beginner. Afterwards you can try other grinds & sizes, but with what I mentioned you can't go wrong. Buy one from SRD and it will be honed by THE honemeister & you will get a certificate for a free sharpening...worth $20! That really does make a Dovo from SRP really affordable indeed.

My first three razors were all full hollow, I now have over twenty ranging from extra hollow to full wedge. IMO either half or full hollow will suit you well much more important is to ensure it's honed by a pro, which is why SRD is a great place to buy from as all razors are honed by THE pro, and as mentioned you get a certificate for another free honing which may come in handy if you mess up the blade in some way.

I think sharpness/width is way more important than grind for first razors. A wider razor, 5/8 or 6/8, will be easier to learn to strop well with. I think grinds effect how you experience the shave...a heavy (less hollow) grind makes less noise as you strop and shave. Less hollow grinds are heavier too, which often seems to make the razor feel like it is 'gliding through' the whiskers more (less feedback from the razor).

As far as your ease of sharpening/maintenance question, I have never noticed a big difference between honing half and full hollow razors. Wedges are another story, they can be a bear to hone...

What ever you decide on will be just fine!

I'd think that a half hollow would suit a new user better.

I wouldn't worry about this too much.
A razor from e.g. SRD will be truly shave ready, and that is the most important aspect of it!
Full or half hollow, 5 or 6/8 will all be good shavers.
I suggest that you select a Dovo you like the appearance of within the aforementioned size and grind.
That should suit you just fine

Good luck!

I belive i have two half hollow, but how do you know? Also what are the pros and cons of a full hollow.

cuz i heard that full hollow are stronger and can give you a great shave but i don't trust youtube. I will place my trust in SRP