Thread: razors does size really matter

I have had a d duck 7/8 for about a month now and have put off using it because of its size. now I know better. It seemed like the blade just knew what to do and all I did was guide it. it's got me now thinking about a 8/8 or so and would that be better. just wondering what others think about that subject. when I got back into straight shaving I had trouble with the neck. a friend sent me a boker blade that was small. I put it in a set of scales and honed and used. worked fine. but now after using the larger blade I don't really know . any one else have any ideas on this subject.

A good razor is a good razor; size is just a personal preference. You do have to get used to a give size, but then it's all good.

I have every thing from a 4/8 wedge to a 7/8 wedge and a 7/8 full hollow and find that they are all great shavers.
What changes is what I feel like using at shave time.
Lately I have been going for wider full hollows for some reason, although, as I will need to sculpture around a Mo for the next month or so, I'll probably go narrower.

Size doesn't matter, just ask any woman.

Bob

A lot depends on the contours of your face and neck. I've found that a large blade works well
on "wide and flat" surfaces, but a smaller blade may be needed to properly shave hollows and
nooks and crannies...like below the curve of the jawline under the ear, or below the adams apple.

I like the "heft" of a large blade, but for a really light touch in a tight spot, I prefer a smaller one.

Whatever works for you is best.

This is one of those YMMV things if ever there was one. And I don't think there is any way to find out what is best for you other than giving as many types of razors as possible a chance.

It's not only the size but the grind, tang configuration, no jimps or top/bottom or both, blade length and on and on.
For me this is part of the adventure of learning the skill.

When I started square/spike points were noting but trouble, now its all I want to use.
I started at 5/8 and now 6/8 seems small and 7/8 is the flavor of the day...and once and a while its the 8/8.

And I've been reminded that the reason it takes so much time and effort is that it is worth it...

Smooth shaving...

Originally Posted by rhensley

all I did was guide it.

Regardless of size guiding the razor is what we all do. From 4/8 to 10/8 it is the same principle. Most guys find their personal favorite in the middle of the spectrum I think, though some are at one end or the other. Keep trying the blade profiles and sizes and , with experience you'll gradually find what works best for you. I am a 6/8 guy myself though I'll go on either side occasionally when the mood strikes.

It's a two part answer. Technically and theoretically any quality and proper sharp razor will do the same job. After-all your face only sees the edge it doesn't care what comes behind the edge. Part two though is how different sizes and configurations and grinds and scales cause YOU to manipulate the razor in a different fashion which can give you markedly different results.

remember, in the old days barbers mostly used 5/8s and 6/8s hollow grind razors and they shaved everyone who came into the shop with them and I guess the customers were satisfied because in those days a cut or irritation and the barber would have been deep sixed by the customer.

+1 to the above

I've got razors from 4/8 to 8/8, from full hollow to wedge...and for my preference, I still like the 4/8th to 5/8th...one reason I've heard for the bigger blades is that they will hold more lather while shaving, resulting in less rinsing.

Either way, as said, this is a YMMV thing...