Straight razors

Razor width

The width of a straight razor is usually stated in eights of an inch or in sixteenths of an inch, measured from the cutting edge to the back. With a wide razor, the angle at which it's held in relation to the skin's surface makes it easier and faster to shave with. On the other hand, it may be a little tricky to get right around the nose and ears. It does get easier with practice, though. A 5/8" wide straight razor is very popular and makes a good size to start with. Ultimately, though, the width of the blade is a matter or personal preference.

Stainless steel or carbon steel?

Straight razors are made primarily from these two types of steel.

Carbon Steel

As a rule, carbon steel can be honed to a sharper edge than stainless steel. But unlike stainless steel, a carbon steel blade requires a little more maintenance and needs to be oiled down to prevent rusting.

Stainless Steel

Although it can't be honed as much as a carbon blade, rest assured it can be sharpened enough to provide many close shaves without having to strop it again. Also, stainless steel is extremely resistant to the humid environment in which razors are often used and stored.

In conclusion, there really isn't a great difference between carbon or stainless steel blades. The larger consideration should be the quality of the steel itself. This is why we work only with manufacturers from Solingen, Germany, Sheffield, England, and Tokyo, Japan.