Thread: Future Proofing.

I'd say not to worry.
I started out with a 5/8 full hollow myself, and that turned out great.
The reason a 5/8 half hollow is recommended for beginners is simply that it is a middle of the road option before one knows personal preference.

Getting a second razor is a sound idea, that way you'll be shaving even if you ruin one, or will have to send it out to get honed.
For that second razor I would maybe try a half hollow 6/8.
No real reason for it, other than just to get to try out another grind and size combo.

But again, do not worry about that first razor of yours. I'm sure you'll do fine with it!

Originally Posted by Birnando

I'd say not to worry.
I started out with a 5/8 full hollow myself, and that turned out great.
The reason a 5/8 half hollow is recommended for beginners is simply that it is a middle of the road option before one knows personal preference.

Getting a second razor is a sound idea, that way you'll be shaving even if you ruin one, or will have to send it out to get honed.
For that second razor I would maybe try a half hollow 6/8.
No real reason for it, other than just to get to try out another grind and size combo.

But again, do not worry about that first razor of yours. I'm sure you'll do fine with it!

Thanks for your reply and it does lead me to my 2nd question, why do the more experienced users prefer a bigger razor such as a 6/8, what is the advantage of a bigger blade?

Well, you are right, quite a few prefer the somewhat bigger blades. Not all, by any means.

It's all preference really, does not have anything at all to do with the shave-ability of the razor.
Me, I use big razors, but I am a fairly tall fella and have pretty big hands.
I find that I have better control of them when honing and stropping, they look good(!) and the added weight is in my book a plus. Others might disagree

Eventually you will find what suits you best.
In the meantime, enjoy that 5/8. It will serve you beautifully

With razors there is no such thing as a starter razor. The only difference between a 4/8s and 8/8s is the larger one is more clumsy and you have to maneuver it differently while a 5/8s can be moved around much more easily. Think an 18 wheeler vs a sports car. Your face only sees the edge of the razor the rest is how you wield it. Old time barbers preferred 5/8s and 6/8s razors to shave customers. I don't know what it is with the big razors these days. Probably no different than large brushes and large scuttles. yes, I have some larger razors but to tell you the truth I prefer the 5/8s and 6/8s.