Question on Adjustables Gap Difference

[Kyle Hyde]

I don't know if this question has been asked before, but here goes.

With a gillette adjustable (or when comparing a bluetip ss to a redtip) the main difference, not considering weight, is the blade gap and not blade angle.

Assuming you shave with the same angle with every razor you use, let's say the always suggested 30 degrees, won't an adjustable on 3 shave the same as an adjustable on 9?

It seems to me that the adjustable's different blade gaps on different settings is only noticed if you use a steeper angle with a higher setting than you do with a lower setting. Is that right?

I hope my question makes sense.

 

[mbrossar]

Generally speaking, I believe you are correct. Because your face has many angles to it, it is difficult to keep your razor at a perfect 30 degree angle every millimeter of your shave. Also, we are all taught to shave with no pressure. Well, the truth is, you need some pressure to get the blade through whiskers that have the same strength as a copper wire. If you accidentally put too much pressure on a mild razor, you might still get away with it, or worse yet, you get away with a little irritation. A little too much pressure or too steep and angle on a more aggressive razor (or an adjustable on the aggressive end) and you end up drawing blood.

Remember, the bar on a razor is a safety bar. The milder the razor, the more careless you can be with it and still not get hurt. The more aggressive razors, you have to watch every minute.

Hope this helps.

 

[82R100]

I think what throws our simplification out the window is that your facial skin is soft and easily deformed. Even with the least possible pressure, I suspect there's some interaction between the safety bar and your skin before the blade reaches it.

- Chris