Clipper guards (also called attachment combs or grades) set how much hair the clipper leaves behind. They're numbered, and each number corresponds to a length in millimetres: the higher the number, the more hair is left. As a rule of thumb on Wahl clippers, each guard number adds roughly 3 mm - so a number 1 leaves about 3 mm and a number 8 leaves about 25 mm. Here's the full chart and how to use it.
Clipper guard size chart (mm)
| Guard number | Length (mm) | Length (inch) | Result |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0.5 | 1.5 mm | 1/16" | Very short stubble |
| 1 | 3 mm | 1/8" | Short |
| 1.5 | 4.5 mm | 3/16" | Short |
| 2 | 6 mm | 1/4" | Short-medium (the classic "number 2") |
| 3 | 9 mm | 3/8" | Medium |
| 4 | 13 mm | 1/2" | Medium-long |
| 5 | 16 mm | 5/8" | Longer |
| 6 | 19 mm | 3/4" | Long |
| 7 | 22 mm | 7/8" | Long |
| 8 | 25 mm | 1" | Longest standard guard |
These are the standard Wahl guard lengths. Exact millimetres can vary slightly between brands and models, so always check the size printed on the guard itself.
What does each guard number mean?
The guard number is just shorthand for a cutting length. A "number 2 all over" means using the 6 mm guard across the whole head. Half sizes (0.5, 1.5, 2.5) sit between the whole numbers and are useful for fine-tuning a blend.
What is a zero (open blade) cut?
Running the clipper with no guard attached - "zero" or open blade - cuts the closest a standard clipper can, leaving the shortest stubble. For a true skin finish you'd follow up with a balding clipper or foil shaver. See our guide to fading for how this fits into a skin fade.
Which guards do you need for a fade?
A fade is built by working up through guard lengths and blending the lines between them. Most fades use the lower guards - open blade or 0.5 up through 1, 1.5, 2 and 3 - with half sizes helping to smooth the transitions. The longer top is usually cut separately or scissor-cut.
Tips for using clipper guards
- Keep your guards clipped on securely - a loose guard leaves uneven lengths.
- Match guards to the clipper brand and model for a correct fit.
- Use the taper lever with a guard on to fine-tune between two lengths.
- Replace cracked or worn guards, as they drag and cut unevenly.
FAQs
What is a number 2 haircut in mm?
A number 2 guard leaves about 6 mm of hair, a popular short-medium length for an all-over cut.
What is the shortest clipper guard?
The shortest common guard is a 0.5, leaving around 1.5 mm. Running with no guard (open blade) or using a balding clipper cuts shorter still.
Are clipper guard sizes the same for all brands?
The numbering is broadly similar, but exact millimetre lengths can vary slightly between Wahl, Andis, Oster and others, so check the size marked on each guard.
How many mm does each guard number add?
On Wahl clippers, each whole guard number adds roughly 3 mm - so a 1 is about 3 mm, a 2 about 6 mm, and so on up to a 8 at about 25 mm.
Shop clippers and guards at trade prices
Browse professional clippers & trimmers and the Wahl range at Hairco & Beauty, or open a free trade account for trade pricing. New to clippers? See our best clippers for barbers guide.
Written by Charlotte Read, Content Writer at Hairco & Beauty. Charlotte has over six years' experience in professional hair and beauty, and our guides are informed by colleagues with 100+ years of combined salon experience and by insight from the trade customers we supply. More about our content.
