Thread: 4/8" Straight Razors

Hello all,

I was wondering what you all think about 4/8" wide straight razors. In your opinions, are 4/8" sized straight razors acceptable for shaving one's face? I have read conflicting accounts about 4/8" sized straight razors. Some seem to think they are only good for detail work. Others seem to think that they, along with 5/8" straight razors, are optimal for shaving one's face.

A few more specific questions:

Do certain grinds work better at this size? For instance, would a 1/4 hollow grind or wedge blade grind work better in these razors?

How easy is it to strop and hone a 4/8" sized straight razor. I have read that some people think that they are hard to balance while stropping and honing.

Did any razor manufacturer excel at making this size of straight razor, or are especially known for these razors?

For those that do use 4/8" sized straight razors, please post your experiences. If you have a favorite razor in this size, please feel free to post a picture for use to admire.

Thanks for your time and any help. I am hoping this thread will be enlightening.

I don't think they would have made them in that size if it wasn't acceptable to shave with. My daily shaver is probably even smaller than 4/8th's. I read somewhere that it's easier for a new person to learn the straight on a 4/8ths. I love 4/8ths straights because I can snatch them up for a little bit of nothing, and do all sort of mad scientist experiments on them without worrying that I'm ruining a collector piece. Unfortunately, my experience is limited, and so, I have nothing further.

4/8's shave just as well as other razors, personally I find them pesky (big hands no like small blades...) but that is a personal issue nothing to do with how they shave.

My take is they shave better, becasue they are easier to move around and are forgiving....I had a kobar.....ried a few others and went back to Kobar...they can really make a 4/8

I have three 4/8 razors one full hollow, one 3/4 hollow and a wedge.
They all shave differently and very well.
It is all what you enjoy using - I have 6/8 as well (but I haven't finished restoring it yet)

Personally I find smaller razors less forgiving, you have to watch those angles a lot more carefully. But they sure are nimble.

Originally Posted by DwarvenChef

4/8's shave just as well as other razors, personally I find them pesky (big hands no like small blades...) but that is a personal issue nothing to do with how they shave.

I agree with you DwarvenChef, I have large hands and I find it sometimes cumbersome handling a 4/8 razor. I am considering on making a set of scales that are larger than usual to help compensate. What I like about the 4/8 that I own is that it is very maneuverable under my jawline/neck area.

Again to agree with you, it is a personal preference.

Originally Posted by altshaver

Did any razor manufacturer excel at making this size of straight razor, or are especially known for these razors?

Swedish companies like Erik Anton Berg, Heljestrand, Klas Tornblom etc. produced fantastic 4/8 razors IMO.

I too find the 4/8 a comfortable shave. I alternate between my razors (4/8 to 13/16) so shaving never gets dull. LOL It also keeps my concentration high with the different feels.

As far as hair removal,they shave as well as any straight IMO.