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Stupid question about Straight Razor Measurement

I have what I can only imagine is going to be a stupid question: is the 5/8 or 6/8 or 7/8 measurement from the spine to the cutting edge, or from the bevel line to the cutting edge?

Thanks!
 
Except...........

In the real world, many 6/8ths razors will actually measure 13/16ths and many 5/8ths will measure 11/16ths. Others will be true to size.
 
That is totally incorrect.

The correct measurement is from the sharpening bevel to the cutting edge.

The measurement of the spine varies significantly depending upon the style of the spine of which there are many. Some razors have no spine height whilst others have as much as 2mm in height.

If you check the measurement of a new DOVO or a new Thiers Issard, most of which have a domed style spine, you will find the blade measures about 1mm oversize to the stated blade size . This 1mm is the height of the dome.

DOES IT MATTER....WELL YES IT DOES.

If you purchase a second hand razor which measures 5/8” in total width and the same razor has a 1mm domed spine, then you will know that 1mm of the original blade has been honed away. That effects the remaining life of the blade, the flex and feel of the blade and it should also effect the price.

I think that anyone who has had a brand new razor understands this. But if your first venture into straight razors is with a vintage blade or a an ebay special, don’t be suprised if the blade has been honed back in width by 1mm.
 
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