Thread: 5/8 or 6/8 ?

Ok I have it narrowed down to the Dovo Special with tortise handle, My question is what is the difference between the 5/8 and the 6/8 ? Is that a measurement ? What one should I get , keep in mind this is going to be my first straight razor. Also should I go with carbon or SS ?

I read that they because the steel is pretty stiff, they are practically indistinguishable. There is an old thread about it somewhere but I could not find it. Whichever one you chose, make sure that it is in shave ready condition. Happy buying ;-)

Al raz.

I forgot to mention that I think the Dovo Special only comes in carbon steel but they should provide the same comfortable shave.

welcome to the world of enjoying your shave.
yes, it's the width. as far as which to get...
you won't know until you get it whether or not you like it.
personally, i like carbon over stainless. seems to hold the edge better IMO. just make sure you keep it dry after you are done shaving.
i hope you enjoy and keep us posted on your adventures and purchases.

IMHO, I would suggest a carbon 6/8. Carbon as it's (generally) less expensive, more forgiving, and easier to hone.
6/8 as it's a little less responsive and heavier than a 5/8. To me 5/8 full hollows require a little more skill and technique to get the best shave out of than a wider blade and/or heavier grind.

[/$.02]

Go with 6/8 and carbon steel. The 8th of an inch are how wide the blade is from spine to edge.

X

Just what I wanted to hear, something was telling me to go with the 6/8, I liked the look of the wider blade and thought it might have been better for me. From my experience with knives, I have always had better luck sharpening Carbon over SS , so I thought I would go with the carbon razor, I know with a knife SS seemed to hold an edge longer but always had a problem sharpening them, so I stay away from SS

Most agree the ss is harder to hone. Just like you I have noticed it with my knifes. As far as blade the 6/8 is a good blade to start with. Just remember when you do get your razor take your time and don't expect the world when you start. Like any skill it takes time to master. I am damn sure still learning

I don't think you can go wrong with either. I like both 5/8 and 6/8. I don't know if it is psychological or for real but the 5/8 seems to me to be easier to maneuver. Kind of like the difference between a sports car and an old Lincoln Continental.

OTOH, I like the look and the little bit more heft of the 6/8 and I guess it seems to me that I am getting more for my money. In reality I don't know whether that 1/8 of an inch is really making much of a difference.

Same as you, I learned to love carbon steel with pocket knives. Since I have been messing with razors SS is good and you can sharpen it up but it takes a bit more work. Good when you get it there though.

If you get bit by the bug you will end up with all of the sizes in all of the materials anyway so don't fret about getting the wrong one. With proper care either one will last you a lifetime and then some.

Originally Posted by sbrouwers

Just remember when you do get your razor take your time and don't expect the world when you start. Like any skill it takes time to master.

I will definitly remember that, thank you.

Originally Posted by JimmyHAD

If you get bit by the bug you will end up with all of the sizes in all of the materials anyway so don't fret about getting the wrong one. With proper care either one will last you a lifetime and then some.

Jimmy, there is already a half dozen razors I would love to have, I hope this is not going to be like my addiction for guns.