Thread: Starting with an "odd" size razor?

I started with a 4/8 mainly because they were less expensive. I still have several in my rotation and enjoy using them. I find them especially handy when having to trim around my Van Dyke. If I am going somewhere special I'll dig out one of the two 3/8 that I have for very careful and close trimming. Draw backs of the smaller sizes, you have to wipe the blade more often. I haven't found that to really be a drawback because it gives me time to see how my shave is going, whether I need to re-lather and make sure I am concentrating on the shave. Every time my mind wanders I have a cut/weeper. 5/8 and 6/8 are the mainstays and a lot of shavers are Jones-ing on 7/8 and up, feeling the weight adds tot eh quality of the shave and don't have to wipe the blade as often. It really is a matter of personal preference at all times in the hobby/sport/necessity/what ever you want to call it daily event.

Yeah I didn't even think about having to wipe the blade more often. Guess that makes sense. I don't have a large space to shave. I have a full goat. So mainly shave cheeks an neck line. Was thinking the 4/8 would be better for visibility while shaving. Have heard several beginners talk about not being able to see around the blade.

Originally Posted by RollinCoal69

Yeah I didn't even think about having to wipe the blade more often. Guess that makes sense. I don't have a large space to shave. I have a full goat. So mainly shave cheeks an neck line. Was thinking the 4/8 would be better for visibility while shaving. Have heard several beginners talk about not being able to see around the blade.

You don't need to wipe the blade that often with a 4/8. You definitely won't be able to do a full pass, but maybe once after each part (cheek, neck, chin etc).

I don't really like 4/8s as much as others because they feel too light.

In the end it all comes down to personal preference. In the beginning it all start with what looks good, and thats a good place to start. I started with a mid size and tried large blades and heavy blades and a couple of 4/8 light razors. I can get a really great shave from all of them. If it looks cool and is in good shape at a price you like, go ahead. Shave ready is the most important part though.

Originally Posted by RezDog

In the end it all comes down to personal preference. In the beginning it all start with what looks good, and thats a good place to start. I started with a mid size and tried large blades and heavy blades and a couple of 4/8 light razors. I can get a really great shave from all of them. If it looks cool and is in good shape at a price you like, go ahead. Shave ready is the most important part though.

This too. After a year or so, you should be able to get a good shave with any razor that's sharp enough, regardless of the grind, size or point. Whether or not it's your favourite is a different matter though.

Looking forward to learning the difference! I just purchased the J.A. Henckels 4/8 from Amenrab. I've been using a 5/8 but from what I've been reading a 4/8 may serve me well since I keep a full goatee.

Well I didn't pull the trigger fast enough on that razor an someone else snatched it up. Oh well must've not been the right one for me. The search continues for the right starter blade. All an any suggestions are appreciated. Thanks to all you guys for the info....