Straight Razor Grinds

Michael J. Spangler

Michael J. Spangler

Joined
Oct 8, 2003
Messages
2,181
so these things are pretty wicked grinds
i'd be interested in trying to make one. does anyone have any info on the process? thanks a lot

Grasshoppa
 
My understanding is that straight razors are a true hollow grind, meaning no secondary or micro bevels.
 
I believe a straight razor has a secondary bevel.If it didn't a razor strop would have to be round.The hollow ground angle on a straight razor is very acute.This creates a very thin edge,with a small secondary bevel.I used to sharpen my grandfathers razors...God,can those things get scary sharp. Ruined a few strops trying to go too fast.
 
Trying to remember Grandpa's, I'd say they were ground on a 2" wheel or so.

I tried shaving with one once. May be why I've had a beard for 32 years...:D Half a tube of styptic later...
 
It seems like if you aren't chopping with the blade but just slicing you can make the edge angle thinner and it just cuts better, but I suppose to some extent that depends on what steel you are working with.
 
GrassHoppa: You don't need a sharp razor.:rolleyes: :rolleyes: Just put a little milk on your face and let the coon cat lick it off. HEHEHEHEHE!!! Sonny!!!!
 
I have been using a Pakistan staight razor for the past few years in the summer. I checked it and the one that I use does have a secondary bevel. It is a very narrow angle and I am finding that it is working its way up on the hollow grind part. I beleive I can use the buffing wheels to narrow the grind to make it easyer to strop.
If you are planning on using this tool to shave with,strop it well and keep the blade flat with your skin, not at an angle. You well give yourself many fine nicks cutting with an angle but flat with the skin well give you such a fantastic shave that you well never go back to disposables.
Oh one other thing make sure your face has been softened buy hot water. This makes the stubble stand up better and feels fabulous when you are done.
 
There are a couple of straight razor only sites.

I think they are something like 11 degrees in the main grind near the edge. They have a secondary bevel that comes from wetting them on stones, pretty much but not entirely flat to the stone. Stropping would add a little convex to the edge if done on a belt.

They shave really well if your not too lumpy. Particularly good for detailing around a beard because you can plunge in at ony point, and there isn't anything to clog.
 
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