Thread: Advantages of different width blades?

Looking at the various models for sale, some are 5/8 or 6/8. Or 7/8 for example. Why? Which one is best for a beginer with a light beard ?

does the length of the cutting edge also factor in somewhat? Is longer better?

thanks

steve

I'm no expert but I've read a bit, the widths affect the amount of flex in the blade which either contours to your face providing a closer shave or more resistance to flex from thick beards.

If you're patient some of the more experienced shavers will be along shortly with lots of science probably!

In the end it doesn't really matter. Most people say 5/8 or 6/8 is a good starting point. I use larger blades, but that's just me.

Advantage of the larger blade is that they tend to look F'ing Badass.

I've read to try many different blade styles and choose for yourself afterwards. I've shaved with 7/8 down to 3/8. The 3/8ths felt a little light for me. The 7/8 felt a little like overkill. Kinda like driving a 3/4 ton 4x4 and never going offroad. Anywho....as above...doesn't really matter. Most of my razors are 5/8. That's not for any shaving reason...It's just cause there are more out there in that size to be had at my price point. I say if you find yourself buying razor after razor, and they're all 7/8 plus, then you're probably spending a ton of money for very little depth of experience. So if you choose to start collecting, I say get a little of everything. If you just wanna shave. Get any size razor, have it honed, and shave with it.

Steve, the length of the blade can certainly play a part in terms of being extremely careful in knowing exactly where the point of the razor is on your face at any time. Staying very aware is a good practice. Personally I enjoy 2.5" and the more standard 3" straights. As to width of straights and in your case with a light beard you will probably have a good experience
with the 5/8 and that may be better if it is more of a hollow grind than not. A 6/8 or 7/8 more hollow than not are my personal picks.
The one thing about straight razor shaving is that after a time learning, we are all different to a degree in our particular likes
and dislikes that we find work best for us as individual shavers. Most things involving the first step beyond the very basics
is that everything becomes subjective. Experimenting as you begin to absorb the learning curve is a great deal of the fun
in this shaving process we are drawn to. Enjoy, read a lot here and ask any questions you have.

Big razors hold more lather before needing to be wiped or rinsed. Smaller razors are easier to fit under your nose.

Some feel that big razors are easier to judge your shaving angle with, others feel they are heavy and easier to cut yourself with as they seem to offer less feedback than a lighter razor.

Really it is all about preference and unfortunately no one can tell you what you will like...and you may find your preferences wander over time.

Enjoy the ride.

The large blades give you more control on the strop and on your face.

It doesn't really matter the width of the blade, just as long as the blade is sharp

Well - I got to put in a vote for the 4/8! There is no science behind it. It was simply the size I chose first, and I learned to get proficient with it.

I have given the larger sizes a go - they are awesome too, but nothing whips around my face like a nice little 4/8! I use them exclusively now. Many call be nutzo's because of it . But smooth is smo0th, and effective comes in all sizes!

Welcome to SRP Steve!! If you are shopping for your first - the tip in IMHO should be your biggest source of concern. A nice round tip is a great place to start - as you can see from the above posts, width is bery, bery personal lol.

All the best of luck!