A straight razor is considered properly balanced when:

A straight razor is considered properly balanced when the weight of the blade equals the weight of the handle. This balance is crucial for providing a comfortable and precise shaving experience. When the blade and handle are evenly weighted, it allows for better control during shaving, reducing strain on the wrist and hand. A well-balanced razor enables the barber to maneuver it more easily, ensuring a smoother, more accurate cut.

In contrast, if the blade is longer than the handle, it can lead to awkward positions and may make the razor harder to control. If the handle is heavier than the blade, it can also create challenges in achieving precision, resulting in potential mishaps during use. Additionally, the material of the blade and handle is not a determining factor for balance; instead, it is the weight that plays a vital role in the overall handling of the tool.