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

Glen speaks truth.

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 erictski

So would this be a good starting razor then

DOVO Straight Razors

I am also interested in this razor...

DOVO Straight Razors

The first one is exactly the blade I was talking about....

The second one is prettier and a 5/8 FULL hollow grind and has Silver Steel...

But from your statement "I have coarse facial hair" I would start with the first one.... It will be slightly heavier for coarser hair, and as stated above the 6/8 is a slight bit easier for a beginner on the strops...

I highly highly recommend that you get it pre-sharpened....

Thanks Glen

Glen's the man and his word is gospel.

The Dovo's are nice, I personally have never owned one, I've stuck with vintage blades thus far. If you're looking for a cheaper option I would keep an eye on the classifieds, you can probably find one there that will come shave ready and for a lot less than the Dovo.

I wouldn't worry so much about matching brushes. If you end up like the rest of us you will have far too many razors to worry about having a matching brush for all of them. Though that would be nice!

My first was a 5/8ths carbon round point that I got from a member here. It's still one of my favorite razors.

Now by all means, if money is no issue go for the Dovo and make sure to pay for the shaprening service. They are from what I understand top notch shavers.

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!