Thread: How Important is Size?

The FAQ recommends getting a 6/8 for a first SR. I've been browsing the Classifieds, as well as a few other sites, looking at what is available, and am seeing a lot of 5/8.

How important is size, when picking a starter razor?

5/8 is fine, too.

A larger blade tends to make it easier to control and keep an eye on your shaving angle. A larger blade is also easier to keep flat on hones and strops. And a larger blade has more weight, which means more momentum, which can mean less "jumpiness" on your face.

But 5/8 - 6/8 is a fine range. I wouldn't recommend a 4/8 to a new guy, and even I don't like stropping, honing, or shaving with a 3/8. It requires my FULL attention.

It all comes down to personal preference. People say 5/8" are a good starter size. But I was more comfortable with 6/8" or larger. The larger the blade the more lather it will hold as well.
Here's a thought get one of each. Now that sounds like a plan.
Enjoy

Wellcome to SRP,start with a 5/8,you will learn down the road what size you reqiure

I would have to agree that a 5/8 or 6/8 are better to begin with for all the reasons holli4pirating stated. But note to that if you love yourself a larger blade or in my case a smaller blade - that goes a long way to ensuring you stick-to-it.

I personally started with a 4/8 and if you google it - you'll note at one time starting with a 4/8 was in fashion - though no longer. I tried others, but found my first love (4/8) to be the one for me when all was said and done. Your mileage may vary.

Good luck!!

Sorry, based on the title, I thought this thread was about something totally different

I say start with a 5/8ths or 6/8ths just because of availability and cost... Dovo's and Theirs Issards for new razors and the readily available vintage blades from eBay, most of the inexpensive examples being of the 5/8's or so sizes. The bigger 7/8ths and 8/8ths tend to be expensive vintage Sheffield blades or even more expensive custom razors. My opinion...

Yes, 6/8 is a good size. I personally don't like anything smaller than a 5/8 myself.

I was given a 3/8 as a gift. Nice vintage razor, but trying to get a decent edge on it and keep it there is pretty hard. The couple of times I tried using it were pretty horrible. Maybe in time it will come to me, but for now the 5/8 is perfect for my abilities.

To reiterate what most everyone said ........ 5 or 6/8 is cool. I have a couple of 4/8 that I keep, and even shave with once in awhile because they are collectible vintage razors that I like for their ambiance. I don't like shaving with anything smaller than a 5/8. Now earcutter likes 4/8. As you progress in straight razor shaving you'll figure out what works best for you in razors, brushes, soaps/creams ....... it is all a matter of trying different things and that is part of the pleasure of it ...... as long as the money hold out.....