5/8 vs 6/8?

[SirPhobos]

What are the benefits/differences in going with a 6/8 versus a 5/8 straight razor?

Thanks in advance for any insight.

 

[Moe]

For me, it is easier to get the appropriate angle when shaving or stropping with the 6/8. It makes no difference getting into tight places, like under the nose. YMMV. Obviously, the wider blade holds more whiskers & lather before having to be wiped (on a Chimensch sponge) or rinsed (and possibly dinged) under a faucet. There isn't a great deal of difference, and I would buy a 5/8 razor I liked, but given the choice, I prefer the 6/8.

 

[Antique Hoosier]

.... I would buy a 5/8 razor I liked, but given the choice, I prefer the 6/8.

I agree on this point for sure. One of my all time favorite razors was a 5/8 Thiers Issard Super "Gnome" however 6/8 is what I have gotten used to as a daily driver and it is what I would seek out when purchasing another razor in the future.

 

[Luc]

the "Chimensch sponge"

Yes, a 6/8 is easier to start with, better feedback, easier to find the angle. A 5/8 should be easier to go around and do precision.

The difference between a 6/8 and 5/8 isn't that much, it's only 1/8... At the end of the day, 6/8 works best for me than 5/8.

And yes, YMMV

 

[SirPhobos]

Thanks for the great info and personal insights!

Best

 

[Magruder]

There's just a little bit of extra heft in that 6/8 blade, too.

 

[SliceOfLife]

I don't notice a big difference. They both are "average" sized blades for me. Nice, easy to maneuver, easy to angle.