Clipper Guard Sizes Explained: What Each Number Cuts
To pick a clipper guard size, start with the length you want left on your head, then match it to the number. A higher number leaves more hair. A #8 guard is longer than a #7, and a #3 guard cuts shorter than a #4. Below is the standard chart, what each size looks like, and how to use the numbers for a taper, fade or buzz cut.
The standard clipper guard chart
Most clipper makers publish the same numbering. Each step up adds about 1/8 inch, with the first guard sitting between the bare blade and #1. Brands can differ slightly, so check the length printed on your own guard.
| Guard number | Length left | Typical look |
|---|---|---|
| #1/2 | 1/16 inch | Very close, almost skin |
| #1 | 1/8 inch | Very short stubble |
| #2 | 1/4 inch | Short buzz |
| #3 | 3/8 inch | Short, soft buzz |
| #4 | 1/2 inch | Short with some body |
| #5 | 5/8 inch | Medium-short |
| #6 | 3/4 inch | Medium length on top |
| #7 | 7/8 inch | Longer, still tidy |
| #8 | 1 inch | Longest standard guard |
The number is not millimeters and it is not "how close." It is a code for the length of hair left after the cut. The guard snaps onto the blade and holds the hair at that height.
A quick way to remember it: the number times 1/8 inch gives the length for most sizes. A #3 is three eighths of an inch. A #5 is five eighths. Only the #1/2 breaks the pattern, at 1/16 inch.
How do I know what size clipper guard to use?
Pick the length first, then pick the number. If you are not sure, start long and work down. You can always take more off. You cannot put it back.
- Try a longer guard first. Go one or two sizes above what you think you want. Make one pass and look.
- Check the guard label. The size is usually printed on it.
- Think about hair type. Thick or curly hair can spring back after cutting and look a bit longer than the chart. Fine, straight hair can look shorter.
- Cut dry, clean hair. Wet hair clumps and cuts uneven.
Fit matters too. Guides are made for specific blade fittings, so always check the compatibility notes before you buy one.
What does each size cut?
Short: #1/2 to #2
These leave 1/16 to 1/4 inch. They are used for tight buzz cuts and for the shortest part of a fade. The scalp can show through on lighter hair.
Medium: #3 to #5
These leave 3/8 to 5/8 inch. Many people pick this range for an even all-over cut. It is short, but you still see color and texture.
Long: #6 to #8
These leave 3/4 to 1 inch. They suit longer tops, the upper part of a taper, or a first pass before you go shorter.
One real example from our shelves is a single-size guide.
The Wahl #4 Black 1/2" Clipper Guide Comb sets a cutting length of 1/2 inch. It snaps onto a full-size Wahl Professional blade and releases quickly when you want to change lengths. It does not fit Competition Series blades or 5-in-1 Detachable Magic Blades, so check your blade first. It is one size only, so you will want other guides for other lengths.
How to choose by style
Most haircuts use more than one length. The chart gives you the building blocks, and the style tells you where each one goes.
Buzz cut
A buzz cut uses one guard all over. Short guards like #2 or #3 are common starting points. Go longer for a softer look, and take a test pass at the back first.
Taper
A taper gets shorter as you move down the sides and back of the head. Barbers often use a few sizes in steps, such as a longer guard higher up and a shorter one near the ear and neckline. Blend the edges where the sizes meet with small, flicking motions.
Fade
A fade goes from very short at the bottom to longer on top. It uses several sizes in a row, often starting with the shortest guards at the bottom and moving up. Clipper-over-comb work smooths the lines between each size.
The BaBylissPRO Barberology Comb Set in red has a 9-inch clipper comb for blending, a 7-inch cutting comb and a fade detailing comb. The red color contrasts with light, medium and dark hair, which helps you see the line you are cutting.
Choosing a clipper for fades? Read our cordless clipper comparison.
The BaBylissPRO FX95C Clipper Comb and Pouch Pro Kit includes the clipper with six magnetic comb attachments, a blade adjustment tool and blade oil. It also has a comb set, three clipper grips and a carry pouch.
How to clean and store your guides
Hair and oil build up inside guides. That can make the cut uneven.
- Brush them out. Tap off loose hair, then use a stiff brush.
- Wash if needed. Plastic guides can be rinsed in warm, soapy water. Dry them fully before use.
- Keep them in order. Store guides by number so you grab the right one in a hurry.
- Store dry and protected. A zip pouch keeps guides from getting lost or crushed.
The BaByliss Pro Fade Brush has boar and nylon bristles that clear clippings from blades. You can spray the bristles with a sterilizing solution and they dry quickly.
The BaBylissPRO Clipper & Trimmer Pouch has a padded interior and a center divider, and it wipes clean with a damp cloth.
Check guides for cracked teeth now and then. A damaged guide can leave a stripe or cut uneven, so replace it if the teeth look bent or broken.
Clean blades matter as much as clean guides. Our guide to oiling clippers covers that step by step.
Common questions
How do I know what size clipper guard to use?
Decide how much hair you want to keep, then match it to the chart above. When unsure, start with a longer guard and step down. Always check the size label on your own guard.
Is a 7 guard or 8 guard longer?
The #8 is longer. On the standard chart a #8 leaves about 1 inch and a #7 leaves about 7/8 inch.
Is a 3 or 4 shorter haircut?
A #3 is shorter. It leaves about 3/8 inch, while a #4 leaves about 1/2 inch.
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