hollowground

Hollowground, or hollow grind, refers to a blade edge formed by a hollow or concave bevel along the blade. This profile is produced by a grinding wheel with a curved, concave surface, which removes material in a curved shape and leaves a thin, razor-like edge at the apex. The result is a blade that is relatively light at the edge and offers very low friction during cutting.

The hollow grind is most commonly associated with straight razors and some kitchen knives, as well as certain woodworking plane irons where reduced edge resistance is beneficial. The primary advantage is an exceptionally sharp edge with minimal drag when slicing, making it well suited to tasks that require precise, delicate cuts. It also tends to be easier to re-sharpen along the edge because the hollow is already formed by the grinding wheel.

Durability and maintenance considerations are important. The edge can be more prone to chipping or rolling if the blade encounters hard materials or heavy use, due to its thin apex. As a result, hollow-ground blades often require careful handling and more frequent sharpening to maintain the edge geometry. Some users prefer flat or convex grinds for tougher tasks, as those profiles can be more forgiving and durable.

In practice, hollow grinding is one of several blade grinds used in cutlery and tools. It is contrasted with flat grinds, which have a single, non-concave bevel, and convex grinds, which taper outward toward the edge. The choice of grind affects edge geometry, sharpening technique, and suitability for specific applications.