Thread: 5/8 vs 6/8 razors

Originally Posted by hiplainsdrftr

I think they're joking about the rather insignificant benefit of holding a ton of lather on the blade as you shave because it's bigger.

I can't speak for other members, but I wasn't joking. While blade size is certainly in the realm of personal preference, as I mentioned before, larger blades were preferred for the amount of lather they were able to hold. This was especially true for barbers, but then again many barbers liked 5/8 razors as well - this is where I suspect the personal preference factor comes into play. The best explanation would be that smaller blades are nimble. I hope this clears up some of the confusion.

I hadn't thought about this aspect too much until lately. My first razor was a 6/8, the next was a 5/8 and today I just received a nice little 4/8 Union Cutlery Spike.

I haven't shaved with it yet but the whole razor is just a lot smaller than the others and as they say...variety is the spice of life!

Originally Posted by hiplainsdrftr

I think they're joking about the rather insignificant benefit of holding a ton of lather on the blade as you shave because it's bigger. Some people rinse with each swipe of the blade and some like to build a freaking mountain on their blade before rinsing it off. It's kind of fun to try the mountain when you make a super lather.

I'm jealous! I wish I had a buch of bamboo around... I really want to make a handle out of it for a badger brush, and to try some scales like on the Dovo natural. I understand it's not the best wood choice for being around water, but I'm sure it can be cool with sealants. More fun for you!

PS - I have no idea what to do with pastes on strops or honing. Hopefully soon I can start playing with that.

Pm me and Ill be glad to send you some.