To achieve the best cutting stroke, the razor must glide over the surface at an angle:

The best cutting stroke with a razor is achieved when it glides with the grain of the hair. This approach ensures that the hair is cut cleanly and efficiently, minimizing the risk of irritation or damage to the skin and hair. Cutting with the grain helps to reduce resistance against the hair, allowing for a smoother and more controlled stroke. This angle is considered the safest and most effective technique in barbering, as it follows the natural direction in which the hair grows.

When using this technique, barbers can achieve a clean and polished look while also ensuring a comfortable experience for their clients. This method is fundamental in classical shaving and is essential for producing the best results with straight razor techniques. Choosing to cut against or perpendicular to the grain can lead to tugging or pulling, increasing the likelihood of nicks or cuts, which is why adhering to cutting with the grain is typically preferred.