Thread: Heribert Wacker 6/8 wedge and 1/4 hollow

I bought this set from shavingshop.com I didn't even know it existed until John pointed it out but I would highly recommend this set.

First off, these grinds are the best available IMO. I've used some full hollow, extra hollow, 4/8, 5/8, 6, 7 and 8/8. IMO the smaller razors that are full hollow are just not sturdy enough. The only 1/4 hollow I've come across were the wacker's and it's a MUCH better shaver. This set includes a 6/8 wedge which is equally as good, if not better.

The fit and finish of these is as good as it gets. It's a two pin design, but everything is centered, tight and comfortable. The balance is perfect as well IMO. The leather pouch they come in is high quality and a perfect fit as well.

The grinds are nice and heavy, and are the best shavers I've used. They actually feel heavier than the 8/8 friodur that I have. This steel also takes the best edge of the few razors that I have worked with. It's carbon steel with some nice etching with little frills. This steel is harder than any other razor steel I've used. Takes some extra time to get an edge on, and it is prone to micro-chipping more so than a softer steel, so it requires a honer who knows what he is doing so you don't end up with a micro-saw. I prefer this steel though over the softer ones though, even with the extra care required in honing. But with a good edge, I haven't found anything better.

The steel needs to be maintained with oil or it will corrode pretty quickly. Nothing outside of normal carbon steel care, but if you plan on shaving, a quick wipe and tossing it in the drawer these are not the blades for you. If you are into the care and maintenance and enjoy pampering your investment, this is the set I would recommend, hands down. Two razors, perfect grind, great quality in a nice pouch and the price is right.

As far as 'sturdiness', I have noticed that a lot of newbies find stiff edges easier to use, but once they learn how to shave well they get equally good, or better results from full hollows and extra full hollows.

Looking back I don't think I could tell which razor is a better shaver than another for at least the first 6 months, even between the same type of razors. I think these days I can appreciate the differences a lot better, but that's only because my shaving skills have evolved a fair amount.

My shaving skills are continuing to get better, but I'm still an 'infant' to straight shaving.

I've been sharpening blades pretty much all my life and have a pretty extensive set of stones to work with, so my comments on the steel have a pretty sound foundation.

I will have to come back to your idea in 6 months and see what I think. I just acheived my first 'magical' shave a couple weeks ago so take my comments on the shaving performance comparisons with a grain of salt.

Either way, I think I will always prefer a heavier grind for the weight and 'feel' if not anything else.

Thanks for the comment, I have something else to think about.

6/8, 1/4 hollow. I fit the noob category, and DO find the heavier and taller blade to give a wonderful shave and inspire confidence.
It's hefty. I like that. A shank w/ some girth for larger hands. 'Needs top jimps. Came w/ transferable smile. I've never stopped, much less honed a deliberate smiling edge. 'Not a radical humpback smile, but unmistakeable. I like it. Learning to strop is still ongoing, but am able to get all but the last 1/16" of the toe nicely sharp.
Balance and feel: Yes
Collectabability: sheesh. 'Have no idea, but it shaves better than anything I own (Dovo stainless 5/8, full hollow, 5/8, half hollow, Genco fluid steel, full hollow, Shumate 4/8 full hollow, Genco gold seal jr. )
The Dovos will go. 'Overpaid as much for the stainless micarta as the Wacker costs, and there' no comparison.