Choosing Guide Comb Lengths: The Best Trimmer Setting for Every Haircut
⏰ Short on time? Here's the summary
Adjustable length settings decide how short or long your hair ends up: from 0.5 mm for a tight skin fade to 25 mm for a fuller style. Choose a clipper or guide comb set with fine steps if you want precision, always start on the longest setting and work shorter from there, and cut in the direction of growth for an even result without irritation.
Want more lengths than your clipper came with? Take a look at the REVAHS guide combs.
What exactly are adjustable length settings?
Adjustable length settings are the lever positions or guide combs on your clipper that decide how short your hair is cut. Instead of one fixed length, you can choose per section of your head: close at the neck, a little longer on the sides and fuller on top. That means one device can handle every haircut, from a close buzz cut to a relaxed, natural look.
Why do they matter?
Without adjustable lengths, you risk cutting your hair too short in one go, and the only fix is waiting for it to grow back. With the right settings, you build it up step by step instead:
- Precision: you decide exactly which length to use for each area, which is essential for a clean fade or blend.
- Versatility: one clipper covers lots of hairstyles, instead of a separate device for each.
- Fewer trips to the barber: you keep your haircut in shape between visits.
- Fewer mistakes: starting on a longer setting leaves room to adjust without starting over.
Which length should you choose for which haircut?
Most clippers and guide combs cover a range of roughly 0.5 to 25 mm. As a rough guide:
- 0.5 to 3 mm: tight, short looks like a skin fade or buzz cut, and crisp outlines.
- 4 to 12 mm: a short to medium style that still looks neat and sharp, suitable for most everyday looks.
- 13 to 25 mm: longer, fuller hairstyles, or trimming a beard to an even length.
Torn between two lengths? Go longer. Hair that's too long can always be cut shorter, but not the other way round.
Missing a length? REVAHS sells guide combs in several lengths, so you can fill the gaps in your set.
Getting the most out of your length settings
- Start on the longest setting for your whole head, so you have a safe base to work from.
- Work in the direction of growth for an even result and less risk of irritation.
- Build up the fade with shorter lengths towards the neck and temples, checking the blends in the mirror as you go.
- Make sure the blades are sharp. Dull blades pull hair instead of cutting it, whatever length you set.
- Clean your clipper after use so the taper lever and combs keep moving smoothly.
More lengths with extra guide combs
Does your clipper only come with a handful of lengths, or do you want finer steps between them? Extra guide combs instantly give you more options, so you can work even more precisely on blends and fades.
REVAHS guide combs
A set of four click-on guide combs (4.5, 6, 10 and 13 mm) that fits every REVAHS clipper. Swap lengths in a click for anything from a tight fade to a fuller style.
View the guide combsFrequently asked questions
Which length should I use for a fade?
Start with 0.5 to 3 mm at the neck and temples, and gradually work up to a longer setting towards the top for a smooth blend.
How many lengths do I really need?
Most people are perfectly happy with five to ten well-chosen lengths. What matters more than the number is how smoothly you can move between them.
Can I use the same length settings on my beard?
Yes, the same guide combs and settings work on your beard. Most men use a slightly longer length for their beard than for the hair on their head.
Why does my clipper pull even on the right setting?
That's usually not the length, but dull or dirty blades. Clean and oil the blades regularly for a smooth result.
