Hanging hair test

[Antares600]

So naturally since I got into DE shaving, I'm becoming obsessed about when my blades are no longer sharp enough to use.

Can someone explain to me the proper way to conduct a hanging hair test on a blade in order to determine when it's more or less "too dull"? I usually go by resistance/tugging and overall feel during the shave, but I've found that isn't always reliable.

 

[Mike H]

I have not tried HHT on a DE blade, but there is a nice discussion here...
http://badgerandblade.com/vb/showthread.php/277985-How-do-YOU-do-the-hanging-hair-test

 

[Pkrankow]

Hanging hair test is an edge indicator for honing a straight edge razor. It is an aid to understanding the formation of the cutting edge.

The shave test is the real test.

I won't say it has no place in testing a disposable blade, but if I am shaving with my DE (I typically use a straight) and I feel that there is some tugging, I change the blade mid-shave.

The same is true with my straights, if I am dissatisfied with the first few swipes then I pull out and strop a different blade, I always have more than 2 ready to go.

Phil

 

[Antares600]

Hanging hair test is an edge indicator for honing a straight edge razor. It is an aid to understanding the formation of the cutting edge.

The shave test is the real test.

I won't say it has no place in testing a disposable blade, but if I am shaving with my DE (I typically use a straight) and I feel that there is some tugging, I change the blade mid-shave.

The same is true with my straights, if I am dissatisfied with the first few swipes then I pull out and strop a different blade, I always have more than 2 ready to go.

Phil

Thanks man, I didn't realize that the test was exclusive to straights. I'll just keep going by the tugging sensation.

 

[Luke Sky High]

Nobody uses HHT for DE blades because the blades are so cheap. Except Super Iridiums. Unwrap a new blade and use it until you feel she's done. Then you should chose which blade will be next and have fun. straight users use one blade, we get to BUY and chose so many brands of blades, that's the best thing about DE shaving. Oh ye and RAD also.