MOGLORD · WEB STORY

Thinking of buzzing it? Pick your guard first.

What each clipper guard actually looks like — before you commit.

HOW GUARDS WORK

The number = eighths of an inch

Guard #1 leaves 1/8 in, #2 leaves 1/4 in, #3 leaves 3/8 in. Each number up adds about an eighth.

GUARD 0–1

Skin-close: 0 to 1/8 inch

Nearly bald with a faint shadow. Shows head shape fully and needs a redo every few days to stay sharp.

GUARD 2

The classic buzz: 1/4 inch

Short, even, unmistakably a buzz cut. Low maintenance, and the most forgiving place to start.

GUARD 3

Short but soft: 3/8 inch

Noticeable hair with a softer outline. A good first buzz if you're nervous about going very short.

GUARD 4

The long buzz: 1/2 inch

Reads as a very short haircut rather than a shave. Keeps some texture and hides uneven growth well.

GUARD 5–8

Crew territory: 5/8 to 1 inch

From #5 up you're in short-haircut land. Blend the top into faded sides for a cleaner finish.

BEFORE YOU BUZZ

Check your head shape first

Bumps and scars show through at #2 and below. Start one guard longer than planned — you can go shorter.

THE BOTTOM LINE

Start long, step down

Guards are just eighths of an inch. See which lengths suit your face shape in the full haircut guide.

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