Thread: Advantages of various blade sizes

Hi folks,

As a newbie to straight razors, I was wondering what the advantages/disadvantages were for the various sizes of razors (e.g. 5/8, 6/8, 7/8, etc). For what reasons would someone purchase a 5/8 versus a 7/8? Does it give better or less "control" or is it for various skin types or beard thicknesses? Thanks.

Ed

Generally, larger blades will do better on tough or thick beards than the smaller blades but the smaller blades can be easier for some people to trim around moustaches, goaties, sideburns, etc. The bigger blades are of course heavier which is preferred by some. Other than that it's really just personal preference. All that said it is generally suggested that someone start with a 5/8 as their first razor. That is about middle of the road and they can go bigger or smaller from there.

Louis