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Thanks for all the reponses. The trend sems to be toward a 6/8 which is counter to what I remember. Even Chris Moss called the 5/8 full hollow the "vanilla ice cream" (I am paraphrasing) of razors. It's also what the vendors" websiites recommend as the beginner razor. There are also more of them. So what have you experienced gents learned over the years that makes the 6/8 1/2 hollow better to start with?
As Glen pointed out, the 6/8, being slightly wider, is just a little easier to strop. The greater the distance between the edge and the spine, the easier it is to keep the blade flat during stropping. There is little difference between it and the 5/8 but you would really notice with a 3/8.
If you were to do a census count of every straight razor ever made, then you would likely discover the basis for the vanilla reference. It was by far the most common size.
a 6/8 is just a good size that is easy to hold and comfortable in the hand and easy to maneuverable on the entire face and you can easily see what you are doing (where blade hits skin). Small blades and large ones take a lot more practice to maneuver due to their odd sizing so it adds a layer of complication that you don't need when learning. Large blades are tough especially around the nose.
Is 4/8 to small to start with??
I too am very new to straights. I have bought 7 different razors off EBay trying to get the perfect old razor. They range form 4/8's to 6/8's in size and some are round and others are square. Both stainless and carbon steel. I have shaved with all of them now. What I have learned is that the razor needs to be knowingly sharp first for a new straight razor person. From there what I have learned is I like the square point best. The reason is you can see the end of the razor and know where to expect the razor to shave. As far as size I don't really see a big difference. I trim the top side of my mustache so a smaller blade is at an advantage there but have learned to push my nose as needed, I even use it for leverage for shaving.
Hope this helps some.
I wouldn't consider it too small, it really depends on the person. I think lighter razors are more helpful in developing good technique too.Quote:
Originally Posted by newstraight
Dave
Im pretty new at this myself and only have a few shaves under my belt (no pun intended) Anyway I went with a 6/8 carbon blade and I really like it. After using it I dont think I will ever use a 5/8 as a matter of fact I see my next razor being bigger like a 7/8.
For shaving under the belt a 4/8 would probably, and I emphasize probably, be fine. :p
I like the 6/8 for daily face shaving too.
That cracked me up :rofl2:Quote:
Originally Posted by AFDavis11
I started with two NOS Wacker 4/8ths. They are now in good hands. I really wish I had started with a 1/2 hollow 6/8ths. I find the smaller blades too manoeuverable for a beginner. Personal preference, though, and your mileage may vary.Quote:
Originally Posted by newstraight