Now I know that everyone has there opinion. Here's mine and I hope everyone will add there's. I really believe that for a completely new guy starting out fresh with a straight razor it should be one that is 1/4 hollow or at least stiff enough to give little feed back. Also a round point. lesson the chances of the point digging in. Also I think that it should be a 5/8 at the most a 6/8. anywhere in-between. For someone starting out size does matter. I believe that a 5/8 is easier to get the angle right to the face for a beginner. Now the longer your in this sport the more razors you will end up with. It's inevitable. It's like a poison ivy it just keeps spreading. Or should I say it's like eating a potato chip. you can't just stop at one. And you'll end up with many favorites. A friend once told me he had many favorite razors and he's probably got thousands. So if some one ask me I would tell them a round point 1/4 hollow grind pro honed to start with. Of course if it was a close friend I would allow him to watch me shave if he was not that close (talking about distance you know) I would direct him to the many videos. Now this is my observation after 1 1/2 yrs using nothing but a straight. Now for all you more experienced blade slingers out there what's your opinion.