Thread: 1/4 hollow

So I have resently started with a new grind. I have used several different half and full hollows. The new 1/4 that I'm using doesn't leave as smooth or as lasting of a shave. I've tried playing with the angle a little but it hasn't really changed much. Is that just one of those things, some people just get a better shave with certain grinds or am I missing something.
thanks
Shaun

The only issue I have with grinds is, for some reason, the extra hollow ground blades seem to set my skin off a little. I remember reading somewhere that they do, in fact, take a sharper edge so perhaps that's it. I'd be wondering if it needs a re-honing rather than the grind not being able to cut hair efficiently.

Back to what I was saying, the extra hollow blades seem to cause more irritation for me but after 3 passes i'm left bbs whether i'm using a near wedge or half/quarter hollow grind.

In my opinion it should not matter what grind of razor you use to shave with. Try pulling your skin tight and keep manipulating that angle until it is shaving smooth. Is the razor shave ready? Has it been honed? 1/4 grinds do not flex as much as a full hallow or bellied razor will.

Originally Posted by RezDog

So I have resently started with a new grind. I have used several different half and full hollows. The new 1/4 that I'm using doesn't leave as smooth or as lasting of a shave. I've tried playing with the angle a little but it hasn't really changed much. Is that just one of those things, some people just get a better shave with certain grinds or am I missing something.
thanks
Shaun

The grind shouldn't effect the closeness of your shave (sharp is sharp ). Heavier grinds are more comfortable to me because they are usually more forgiving and 1/4 hollow is one of my favorite grinds. I would check the bevel because the heavier the grind the longer it takes to set it.

the razors came to me shave ready. Thanks for the replies. I'm trying to narrow my possibilities and experienced perspective is always appreciated.

Rez,

One of the reasons you may be getting a closer shave with full hollows is the flex in the blade. It actually allows the edge to follow contours on the face where a heavier grind, i.e. 1/4 hollow doesn't. A quarter hollow may lift, or not follow in a slight depression, or form partially around an angle, where the full hollow will. That's why I like a full or extra hollow. In fact a lot of guys find after awhile that full hollows become their favorite razors. You can get a close shave with a 1/4 hollow, but it takes a little extra attention in certain areas. Have fun!!!

Howard

Originally Posted by stonebraker

In my opinion it should not matter what grind of razor you use to shave with. Try pulling your skin tight and keep manipulating that angle until it is shaving smooth. Is the razor shave ready? Has it been honed? 1/4 grinds do not flex as much as a full hallow or bellied razor will.

I don't think the grind matters all that much, other than a wedge.

I have an extra hollow and a near wedge. I prefer the tactile and audible feedback of the extra hollow. The wedge in comparison, feels dead, although it is sharp and shaves well. It is very much a YMMV situation.

It could well be that your quarter hollow isn't sharp enough. This grind is more challenging to hone, but when very sharp should give you a close comfortable shave. I enjoy a good quarter hollow, but really like 3/4 to 1/2 hollows, as they are a good compromise. Easier to hone and provide a nice stiffness which works well on a tough beard.

There are many factors influencing how a razor shaves as you use it. You need to examine the balance of the razor, the size blade the shape of the scales and the feedback you get. All these things might cause you to use the razor a tad different meaning the pressure and angle and stroke which may result in a more positive experience with one over the other.