Thread: Blade length

Been doing a lot of reading on the site and there is a lot of great info as to width & grinds, points, etc but I have not come across any information on the length of a blade. The pictures I see seem to show a wide variety of over all straight lengths. Is there a standard length of blade? Are the scales longer for just looks or is there functional aspect? As a total noob is there a certain length of blade I should be looking for? I'm guessing that a shorter blade may add a certain amount of control where a longer blade less maintenance?

Virtually all razors have about 2.75" long blades. If you see something else it's either quite old, or custom, and way out of the norm.

That's why it's also fairly easy to estimate the size of the blade from a picture - the length is pretty much a given, so the width can be estimated from that.

voltage,

+1 on Gugi's post.

I have a few 'stubby' straight razors that have been shortened from full length (2.75" - 3") sometime in the past. The shortest is a 2" Puma, which I find is a lovely razor to shave with

If you do come across some 'stubbies', please give them a try

Have fun !

Best regards

Russ

You really answered your own question when you said you've seen a wide variety of straight lengths. There's no standard length and really there's no standard width; some like wide some like narrower, same with length.

I have a little De Pews near wedge which was marketed as 'The perfect Razor' and I really like the overall smallness (both width and length) combined with the grind.

Previously I had an oddly named 'Weiner Schaber' (Vienna Scraper) which was very small. Both of these razors offer great maneuverability.

The main function of the scales is of course to protect the razor. Remember Kamisori razors have no scales; but of course have a 'handle'. the other function of the scales is to provide a handle (in part; along with the tail) but also to provide balance. Scales can be made longer both for aesthetics but also to allow for a better balance; esp if a lighter material is used.

Most razors you find will be of a pretty similar length and a similar width (5/8 is very common). If you go for a 5 or 6 eighths as your first razor; in a half hollow or full hollow grind, you won't go far wrong.

I wouldn't recommend a wedge for a newbie, I actually find they offer a lot less 'feedback' through feel and sound, and I feel one can be inclined to press too hard with them, esp considering the weight of the blade itself.

All just my opinion, of course, others will have different ideas, but I hope this may be of some help.