Think I'm in love....

I got a new Hart yesterday, a 7/8" Square tip. It is a stunning piece of metal.

I've never used anything bigger than a 6/8" and the Hart is impressively large. I suspect it could be used as a breaching tool in case of fire, perhaps as a maul to split firewood. But in truth I found the size and weight a real pleasure to use. It came shave ready out of the box (I couldn't help myself and gave it a light stropping before it's inaugural shave. But it was ready right from the start.)

This razor has become an instant favorite. I did manage to nick myself on the nack and have a touch of razor burn, but I think that is due to my being a rookie shaver and still learning the size of the blade. This one is a keeper!

Congratulations! Hart Steel razors are efficient no-nonsense straight razors. Your great, great grandchildren can use your razor if it is looked after properly. I believe Hart still uses one layer of tape when they do their honing so you may want to keep note of that when it comes time for your razor to be honed. Enjoy!

Thanks. I'll try a layer when I hone it.

You can always check Hart's website to be sure they are still adding the tape. But I believe they are. And tape is not mandatory, it can be honed without and put through honing that resets the bevel. This should be off into the future. No worries

Hart make and excellent shaving straight. Nice pick up.

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Originally Posted by Nix

I got a new Hart yesterday, a 7/8" Square tip. It is a stunning piece of metal.

I've never used anything bigger than a 6/8" and the Hart is impressively large. I suspect it could be used as a breaching tool in case of fire, perhaps as a maul to split firewood. But in truth I found the size and weight a real pleasure to use. It came shave ready out of the box (I couldn't help myself and gave it a light stropping before it's inaugural shave. But it was ready right from the start.)

This razor has become an instant favorite. I did manage to nick myself on the nack and have a touch of razor burn, but I think that is due to my being a rookie shaver and still learning the size of the blade. This one is a keeper!

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Hi Nix,
any chance of some pics? I would "love" to see this 6/8 wonder....and now we know what Cupid uses for a sword ;)

Nix,

Would I be correct in guessing its your first heavy grind? I ask, 'cause my first one was also a game changer & the first shaves that I really enjoyed. I was split between a 6/8 Hart and the Wacker. I went w/ the Wacker & 18 mo later, the heavy Wackers remain favorites.

If its a first heavy grind, one of the things you've already noticed is that they tolerate pressure more than say an extra hollow. While they do tolerate it better, its not a habit you want to get into or razor burn will be your constant friend. Think of your stretches and strokes making the stubble available to the edge, rather than taking the edge to the stubble. You'll find those nice heavy grinds shave just beautifully without pressure also.

'Hope to taste one of the Harts some day. They seem like really nice blades, though they're now more costly than a Wacker. Enjoy that lovely blade!

And made in the USA to boot! Very nice. Which scales did you choose? I love that you can pick your blade with Hart and any scale you like. We need a pic!!!

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Originally Posted by pinklather

Nix,

Would I be correct in guessing its your first heavy grind? I ask, 'cause my first one was also a game changer & the first shaves that I really enjoyed. I was split between a 6/8 Hart and the Wacker. I went w/ the Wacker & 18 mo later, the heavy Wackers remain favorites.

If its a first heavy grind, one of the things you've already noticed is that they tolerate pressure more than say an extra hollow. While they do tolerate it better, its not a habit you want to get into or razor burn will be your constant friend. Think of your stretches and strokes making the stubble available to the edge, rather than taking the edge to the stubble. You'll find those nice heavy grinds shave just beautifully without pressure also.

'Hope to taste one of the Harts some day. They seem like really nice blades, though they're now more costly than a Wacker. Enjoy that lovely blade!

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What does it mean to have a razor with a 'heavy grind'? Just trying to lean something new every day...

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Originally Posted by eflatminor

What does it mean to have a razor with a 'heavy grind'? Just trying to lean something new every day...

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A heavy grind is a less hollowed out blade, giving it more mass.
Quarter hollows and near wedges would usually be defined as a heavier grind.

I got 3 6/8 Hart's and a 7/8 square, it took me a little while to get the hang of the 7/8 but I wouldn't sell or trade it for anything I really like my Hart Steel. I check often to see if they have come out with new.

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Originally Posted by Birnando

A heavy grind is a less hollowed out blade, giving it more mass.
Quarter hollows and near wedges would usually be defined as a heavier grind.

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Try this link:- Open Razors
Notes from arguably the most authoratative source on vintage razor production, certainly from Sheffield.
Bill Hukin worked in various Sheffiled cutlery companies in making razors as did his father.
His unique insights were documented before he passed away.
Fascinating reading and highly recommended.
Thanks to Neil Miller for posting this link in this thread :tu:
http://straightrazorpalace.com/works...an-1-16-a.html

Just got mine today!!!! 7/8 point, polished :-)

Just to be clear, this is a 7/8 Hart. The scales are Walnut and the steel is O-1. Tool steel. Unless you are engaged in a regular lifting regimen at the gym, don't try to use this beast!

http://rotte.smugmug.com/Other/SRP/i...B140009-XL.jpg

It is a heavier grind...not sure of the technical name, but it is not a full hollow grind. Plenty of steel here. There is no way a cute little Cherub like Cupid could lift it. Today I got a wee bit careless and cut myself on the left cheek. Not a big deal, it it is clear that this is a razor to be respected.

I will say that the finish on the scales is not great. At some point I'll need to disassemble the razor and refinish the scales for best effect.

I was interested in Pink's comment that being a heavier razor it could take more pressure. I think that is true. The thinner full hollow grinds that I have almost feel like they flex with pressure. The Hart does not.

I also have a Hart 6/8 and it is a fabulous razor too, but the 7/8 has completely stolen my shaving attention. If I could only have one razor......

Thank God that's not the case though. :D

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Originally Posted by Steveorocks

Just got mine today!!!! 7/8 point, polished :-)

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Hope you love it like I do. Post a review!

I will! Can't wait for my shave tomorrow!

http://img.tapatalk.com/aefe3a62-cdbd-a408.jpg

What are the advantages of heavy grind blades?
Thanks

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Originally Posted by Nix

I've never used anything bigger than a 6/8" and the Hart is impressively large. But in truth I found the size and weight a real pleasure to use. This razor has become an instant favorite.This one is a keeper!

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I started out buying several 5/8's and a 6/8. Once I got my first large blade, slightly under 7/8, and got the nerve to shave with it I was hooked. I have since been selling my smaller blades, well trying to sell, and buying only large blades. Now I wish I would have started with a large blade, it would have saved me some money that's for sure.

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Originally Posted by bmf2001

I started out buying several 5/8's and a 6/8. Once I got my first large blade, slightly under 7/8, and got the nerve to shave with it I was hooked. I have since been selling my smaller blades, well trying to sell, and buying only large blades. Now I wish I would have started with a large blade, it would have saved me some money that's for sure.

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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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Originally Posted by Steveorocks

I will! Can't wait for my shave tomorrow!

http://img.tapatalk.com/aefe3a62-cdbd-a408.jpg

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Nice picture perspective, Enjoy many great shaves with that beauty!

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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.