Thread: Stepping up to a 6/8

When I started shaving with a straight, I read somewhere that someone recommended beginning with a 5/8. I followed the advice. Since I was concerned about a lack of dexterity I reasoned that a more narrow blade would be easier to work with. Since then I've purchased several razors, all of which have been 5/8. The only change that I made is a switch from full hollows to half hollows.

A week or so ago, I decided that I was going to try a 6/8 half hollow. I ordered a couple, and they arrived today. I just shaved with the first one, and am now thinking about selling all of my 5/8s. It is amazing how much the little difference in weight and stiffness makes. It really seemed to smooth out my passes. Now granted, if I had superior technique the difference probably wouldn't matter as much, but the difference really works for me.

It is quite amazing, is it not? Started with 4/8ths, am looking for more 8/8ths now.

I agree that a 6/8 feels better to shave with. I would, however, suggest that you keep a few of the 5/8 blades. As you gain more experience, you may find that your preference changes. It can also feel very refreshing to shave with a small, light blade every now and then.

I'm probably going to hang on to most of the 5/8s. I get really good shaves with them. I was just amazed about the difference.

I didn't really understand the benefit to having different types of blades in the rotation. I'll bet that I'll use the 6/8s for a couple months, then pick up one of the 5/8s and say I can't believe how great this light little blade is.

Gentlemen,

I concur with you about the overall shaving capability of the 6/8" compared to that of the 5/8" blade. That is not to say one can ignore personal preference for the smaller or the bigger blades. There is no right or wrong answer here.

As most gentlemen shavers here at SRP, I started with the 5/8". Now, though, I seem to have joined the ranks of those who prefer the 6/8". I think it's a question of comfort: I seem to grow more comfortable with the 6/8". Most of my shavers are 5/8", however, but I'll keep them for now for variety.

Regards,
Obie

I started with5/8 & then went up in size to 7/8 & 8/8 full hollows & have now gone down to a 3/8 filly which I use most of the time, I have also used grinds going from 7/8 wedge down to 3/8 full hollow.
I seem to be at the stage where I get similar results from what ever razor I am using & I believe that a good prep is more important than the type of blade that I am using.
Cheers Paul

Originally Posted by captainboog

When I started shaving with a straight, I read somewhere that someone recommended beginning with a 5/8. I followed the advice. Since I was concerned about a lack of dexterity I reasoned that a more narrow blade would be easier to work with. Since then I've purchased several razors, all of which have been 5/8. The only change that I made is a switch from full hollows to half hollows.

A week or so ago, I decided that I was going to try a 6/8 half hollow. I ordered a couple, and they arrived today. I just shaved with the first one, and am now thinking about selling all of my 5/8s. It is amazing how much the little difference in weight and stiffness makes. It really seemed to smooth out my passes. Now granted, if I had superior technique the difference probably wouldn't matter as much, but the difference really works for me.

Same here. I have five razors in my rotation and only one is a 5/8 blade. Two are 6/8s and two are 7/8s. I found myself enjoying the wider blades. In fact, I am thinking that my next addition is going to be an 8/8. The Friodur INOX 7/8 is a pleasure to shave with. I have big hands so that the weight and balance complements well.

I started out with a 6/8s but honestly I don't think the quality of the shave has anything to do with the size. I personally think 6/8s is the ideal size but that's a feel thing to me. I've used them all and enjoy them all except for a 2/8s I have which I don't like because its just too small but its really designed as a trim unit.

Originally Posted by captainboog

A week or so ago, I decided that I was going to try a 6/8 half hollow. I ordered a couple, and they arrived today. I just shaved with the first one, and am now thinking about selling all of my 5/8s.

I went the same route. I started with 5/8s because that's what most people recommended. However, I eventually came to prefer 6/8s. However, if I were you I would not sell all my 5/8s. Every now and then it's kinda nice shaving with one of the smaller blades -- it adds a little variety to the whole Zen experience.

While most of my razors are 13/16ths and 6/8ths, I keep two 5/8ths around because they shave well.