Thread: Size of razor

What is the best size razor to start with. Curious if it should be a 6/8 with a round tip. Have read that the round tip are better to learn with.

A 5/8 or 6/8 would be my recommendation. Round points might be a little more forgiving than a square point, but that doesn't mean you can't learn with a square point.

Originally Posted by PDorsey

What is the best size razor to start with. Curious if it should be a 6/8 with a round tip. Have read that the round tip are better to learn with.

I started using straights earlier this year, and I planned on a 6/8" as my first razor because it's pretty much middle the typical range. So a step up or down is more useful IMHO; up, and you're into "large" razors, and down puts you in the "small" end of the spectrum.

Although round points are more forgiving, I felt that it was important to learn toe control right from the start. I figured that I might develop lax habits with a less aggressive point, so I went for a square point. Interestingly, I apparently learned toe control well: I've never cut myself with a point...but I've given myself a few linear weepers with the edge! *DOH!*

So I'd recommend a 6/8", or alternatively a 5/8", with whatever point you want... unless you think you'll never use anything except round points.

Started with a 4/8 that worked quite well for a while, but then got curious about larger sizes and now prefer 6/8 and larger if I can get them. Still have a couple of 3/8 in rotation for those times that I need very careful trimming around my Van Dyke.

PDorsey,
A 5/8 round point is ideal for starters. You'll do well with a 6/8 round point, too, but a 5/8 is a sure bet. Whether new production or vintage, please make sure it is shave ready. I suggest staying away from eBay until you know your way around the straight razor world — because eBay is stuffed with lofty descriptions of razor that are not up to par when viewed in hand. Also, when you read "shave ready" on eBay, most likely the razor is not. Anyway, buy from the Classified here or a reputable vendor. Finally, don't buy your razor sight unseen. Know what you're buying.

6/8 Round Point was my starting razor size.
Although my early attempts with a square/spike were extra bloody, I now prefer Square and Barber points - makes working the Mo much easier.
As Dzanda mentions minding that heel and toe is something to learn, and learn you will...

Enjoy the journey and Smooth Shaving...it is worth the effort.

A 5/8 round point is my vote. Good luck

Hi Dorsey,

A few things to let brew in the back of your mind is that your first razor will likely not be your last. There's likely no bad choice between 5/8 & 6/8. Ergos really drive that decision. On the ergos - do you require a size XL glove or larger? If so, the smaller shank on the 5/8 may not be as comfortable to make fine movements with. The size of the razor blank seems to take a jump up - at 6/8, and the large hand can find a more comfortable, positive hold.

Also on stropping - the larger blade can be easier to keep flat. I have to be super careful when honing a 4/8 for a member. The small size can catch some friction on the strop & flip over, sending the edge into the strop.

When honing, its easier for me to feel where the main contact w/ the edge is on the larger blade.

If you take a size Large, or smaller, you're in luck. There's gotta be 100 5/8 full hollow razors for every other size/grind. That means selection is great, and pricing is good.

Either will work. I started with a 5/8 and my second was a 6/8. Of them, I find them almost identical to use, although once I had used the 5/8 for a few months, the 6/8 required some change in angle. If I were going for my first again, one thing I'd look for is jimps...I find razors with them easier to grip and flip on a strop, but again, I've gotten used to both.

So, assuming that it won't be your last (at least 2 is the minimum, IMO) pick one and go. As others have said, buy from a reputable source, not eBay and buy shave ready.

I also vote for the round point 5/8 for a beginner. Any bigger than 6/8 and it takes more technique to get the upper lip and 4/8 and smaller can be hard to get proper angle (at least for me)