I have been shaving with straight razors for a few months now and am getting comfortable with my technique. Most of my razors are full hollow or extra hollow. I can get comfortable great shaves with them. Recently, Classic Shaving listed some of their Hart Steel razors on sale for half the normal price. They are still on sale, but for 2/3 the regular price. I decided to broaden my collection and my experience without completely flattening my wallet by getting a Hart 6/8" with square tip on sale.

I have shaved twice with the Hart, but my experience has been rather painful and somewhat bloody.

Since the Hart is a full 3" length compared to about 2 3/4" on my other razors, I knew I would have to be careful of the tip. The tip has not been the issue. If that were the issue, I would blunt the tip.

I have gotten a couple of cuts from the blade itself. My normal practice is to adjust the angle of the blade by setting it three spine widths off my face. This usually works whether it is a 5/8", 6/8" or 7/8" blade. I do not know whether my issue is with the stiffness of the blade, the extra weight of the blade, or the lack of audible feedback. Most of my razors are "singing" blades, and I know when I have the pressure and angle right by the sound when the edge contacts my face. I do not have that audible feedback with the Hart.

I have read several posts indicating from people indicating that they use the same angle and pressure with a wedge that they use with a hollow, but I am having trouble finding the sweet spot.

Any suggestions from the wedge experts?