Think I'm in love....

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Originally Posted by bonitomio

Can you share with us from your experiences why the bigger blades were more to your likeing?
Smoother shave, less effort, more control? Also are the blade grinds the same for the smaller and larger razors you have?
Just asking so we all benefit ;)

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Weight is probably the biggest factor for me. I have found that the larger blades are easier for me to shave with as I tend to apply pressure against my face with the blade when I shave and having a heavier blade I apply less pressure. On the opposite end I don't feel the need to apply any pressure when stropping due to being able to feel the weight of the blade in my hand. I found small/light weight razors difficult to strop without pressing the blade against the strop.

The different grinds really aren't all that noticeable to me as far as one being better than the other except for the wedge 13/16 W&B I have. I must say that I do love the wedge but as long as I get a great shave I don't really have a grind preference.

I think shaving with any size razor despite its grind and weather it be a round or spike point is something that will take some getting used to and practice so there is no need to start with a smaller blade or a round point IMO. I tend to nick myself the first time I shave with any razor but I learn from it so I know not to do what I did again. I do recommend an affordable blade just in case you don't like straight razor shaving and the smaller blades are usually more affordable.

I hope this helps someone but keep in mind that I have only been straight razor shaving for about 10 months so I am no expert nor do I claim to be. :)

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Originally Posted by bmf2001

Weight is probably the biggest factor for me. I have found that the larger blades are easier for me to shave with as I tend to apply pressure against my face with the blade when I shave and having a heavier blade I apply less pressure. On the opposite end I don't feel the need to apply any pressure when stropping due to being able to feel the weight of the blade in my hand. I found small/light weight razors difficult to strop without pressing the blade against the strop.

The different grinds really aren't all that noticeable to me as far as one being better than the other except for the wedge 13/16 W&B I have. I must say that I do love the wedge but as long as I get a great shave I don't really have a grind preference.

I think shaving with any size razor despite its grind and weather it be a round or spike point is something that will take some getting used to and practice so there is no need to start with a smaller blade or a round point IMO. I tend to nick myself the first time I shave with any razor but I learn from it so I know not to do what I did again. I do recommend an affordable blade just in case you don't like straight razor shaving and the smaller blades are usually more affordable.

I hope this helps someone but keep in mind that I have only been straight razor shaving for about 10 months so I am no expert nor do I claim to be. :)

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Thank you for your personal feedback on razor preferences.
This is great information for anyone looking to start SR shaving or considering trying something different.
I have some ideas about starting a SR "user" database, pending Mod approval of course.
Good stuff :tu:

I've been using a straight razor for 2 months now--I'm a complete rookie. But I agree with bmf2001, the weight seems to help with the control. Also the width (7/8 vs 5/8) seems to offer better angle control. This must be illusory, but it seems to be the case. This evening I used a Boker 5/8 with a full hollow grind. Compared to the Hart 7/8, the Boker seemed tinny and soft, i.e. flexible. The Hart is solid and assertive. The Boker gave a good shave, the Hart just feels better in use...to me at least.

It's funny, because the Hart seems less refined than the Boker. If the Boker is "Queen Anne", the Hart is pure "Shaker." The Shakers designed with functionality in mind though.

so my first shave with my 7/8 hart was not the best. I like the feel of the razor. The weight is great, but boy did I get myself good with that french point!!! I should have gone with the rounded edge.

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Originally Posted by Steveorocks

so my first shave with my 7/8 hart was not the best. I like the feel of the razor. The weight is great, but boy did I get myself good with that french point!!! I should have gone with the rounded edge.

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No! no! Sorry it bit you. I love the Square tip. Give it a chance. That tip gives you some great control in tight spots. Respect the point and it will become your friend. I really don't like the round points now--they work fine, but don't provide the same degree of precision.

Well the last laugh might be on me:

Gave my self a nice dueling scar with the 7/8 Hart this evening. Trying to execute an across-the-grain pass, I managed to convert it to a draw stroke and ended up with a sink full of blood.

...that was after I had jabbed my self on the other side of my face in the jaw-line.

:cry::gaah::rant::rofl2:

I told my wife that I had a great shave (true) and she thought I was crazy (might be true).

What's a little blood when you are having fun?

Nix,
Well, you are learning and i am sure you will not make the same mistake, again. Continued success and happy shaving!

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Originally Posted by celestino

Well, you are learning and i am sure you will not make the same mistake, again.

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Bless you Brother, I wish that were true!

This evening I used my 6/8 Hart (I feel blessed to have both a 6/8 and a 7/8 Hart.). I had a good shave--though the tugging I felt made me think it is time to hone it a bit--but I think I really prefer the size and weight of the 7/8. I have found my razor and it is the Hart 7/8!

Nice clean lines those Hart razors.

Rgds, Jazor.