Thread: 5/8 or 6/8

I am looking to buy my first razor still...i am currently using a shavette which is producing good shaves with alot of irritation (which i heard is normal for the shavette).

I need to save a little money yet so i can get the razor and strop but what would you guys suggest...

a 5/8 or a 6/8 and also carbon or stainless...

i have course facial hair and only shave once maybe twice a week.

Thanks for any input...

I always recommend the same style of razor for a first razor, which is basically a dead center razor, 6/8 size, 1/2 hollow grind, and a round point....
Then you can decide which direction you want to go from the center of the razor selection....

PS whoops forgot the Carbon part

Hi,

Well, to start, I'd try a carbon 5/8. That's the most standard type of razor with good steel and the right size for someone who's beginning to shave with a straight razor.

Enjoy

Glen speaks truth.

I would agree and say a 5/8 and carbon for a starter. I prefer 6/8 and up for myself. Stainless is alright but harder to hone. Once you get going it is all personal preference but the 5/8 carbon is a good place to start.

Hi,
Though a 5/8" may be easier to manoeuvre around the face, a 6/8" is easier to keep flat on the strop when learning. This means you're less likely to roll the edge. Personally, i prefer the larger blades, but everyone's different.
Carbon is easier to hone than stainless, & many say gentler on the skin, but i prefer the stainless anyway.
Good luck mate!

I would probably suggest a 5/8 or 6/8 1/4 hollow, or even better yet a 4/8 is easier to maneuver in the upper lip area and tight spots.

Originally Posted by gssixgun

I always recommend the same style of razor for a first razor, which is basically a dead center razor, 6/8 size, 1/2 hollow grind, and a round point....
Then you can decide which direction you want to go from the center of the razor selection....

So would this be a good starting razor then

DOVO Straight Razors

I am also interested in this razor...

DOVO Straight Razors

Originally Posted by gssixgun

I always recommend the same style of razor for a first razor, which is basically a dead center razor, 6/8 size, 1/2 hollow grind, and a round point....
Then you can decide which direction you want to go from the center of the razor selection....

This is a good way!

But in my opinion it actually doesn't matter that much if you buy a 5/8 or 6/8.
Better keep an eye on the steel and a sharp (!!!) blade.
In my opininion quality comes before size (at least when we talk about razors)

But a 5/8 or a 6/8 are both good to begin with.

I've been shopping a lot as well. After reading lots of reviews, doing tons of research (including looking for some lesser mentioned qualities such as: will I be able to find a matching brush, etc when I start upgrading my equipment) I settled on your second option there- the 5/8 Silver Steel Ebony. Haven't received it yet, so my advice is going to be lacking on the actual shave, but I can also tell you that it's a bit cheaper on Vintage Blades, even after you pay the extra $20 for pre-honing. They've got a matching ebony handled brush there (a Shavemac if I recall) that looks absolutely beautiful.
Another alternative is the 5/8 tortise handle that is on sale through today- beautiful razor, and has received a lot of good reviews. It's on sale ending today.

If you're still looking in a few days, I can give you my personal review of the ebony silver steel. Probably post a first shave account in the noob section.

good luck!