Looking for a sharp, low-maintenance haircut that still gives you length and versatility? Enter the Guard Buzzcut—a fresh twist on the classic buzzcut that lets you keep more hair while maintaining a clean, structured look.

Unlike the traditional buzzcut, which is ultra-short and uniform, the Guard Buzzcut utilizes longer clipper guards, such as #8, #12, #16, and #20, to create a fuller, more textured style. Whether you want a slightly grown-out buzz, a medium-length clipper cut, or something in between, this technique allows you to control your length without the need for scissors.

First of all, What are clipper guards?

Clipper guards (also called clipper attachments) snap onto electric hair clippers and control how much hair is cut. The higher the guard number, the longer the hair is left behind.

Standard clipper guards range from #0 (bald) to #8 (about 1 inch or 25mm). However, some brands offer extended guards like #12, #16, and #20 for even longer styles.

Choosing the right guard for your haircut

The right guard depends on how much length you want to keep:

Lower guard numbers (#1-#4): Short fades and buzz cuts.

Mid-range guards (#5-#8): Classic crew cuts and longer buzz cuts.

Higher guards (#12-#20): Longer, textured styles with shape and volume.

Now, let’s break down the 8, 12, 16, and 20 guard cuts to see which fits your style best.

1. 8 Guard Cut (1 Inch / 25mm) – The Balanced Length

The #8 guard cut is one of the longest standard clipper guards, leaving about 1 inch (25mm) of hair. It’s great for:

A neat, short hairstyle with some volume

A longer buzz cut that doesn’t look too harsh

Maintaining texture while keeping the sides tidy

Best for: Guys who want a classic, low-maintenance cut without going too short.

Style Tip: Use a lightweight styling cream or matte clay to add definition without making your hair greasy.

2. 12 Guard Cut (1.5 Inches / 38mm) – The Grown-Out Buzz Cut

A #12 guard cut leaves about 1.5 inches (38mm) of hair, giving you a relaxed, fuller look while still being easy to manage. It works well for:

Thick even texture across the head

A fringe that’s clean but still has shape and movement

Guys who want a bit more length on top while keeping the sides short

Best for: A clean-cut but not too-short look, especially if you have thick or wavy hair.

Style Tip: A light sea salt spray helps add texture and volume, especially if your hair falls flat.

3. 16 Guard Cut (2 Inches / 50mm) – The Medium-Length Clip Cut

The #16 guard cut leaves about 2 inches (50mm) of hair, making it ideal for a medium-length, structured look. This guard cut is best for:

Maintaining a natural shape while keeping the back and sides uniform

Guys who want a more defined haircut without scissor styling

A longer buzz cut alternative that looks intentional

 

Best for: A low-maintenance but stylish cut that looks polished without much effort.

Style Tip: Use a volumizing mousse or styling powder to enhance volume and hold without stiffness.

4. 20 Guard Cut (2.5 Inches / 63mm) – The Full, Grown-Out Look

The #20 guard cut leaves about 2.5 inches (63mm) of hair, making it one of the longest options for clipper guards. It’s perfect for:

A controlled, longer-length style without looking too messy

Transitioning from shorter hair to a medium-length look

Men who prefer structure but want to keep as much length as possible

Best for: Guys who want to grow their hair out but still keep it clean and shaped.

Style Tip: Use a light hold styling cream or leave-in conditioner to keep hair soft and manageable.

Final Thoughts

Understanding clipper guard sizes helps you communicate better with your barber and get the exact length you want. If you’re unsure, start with a longer guard—you can always go shorter, but you can’t put hair back once it’s cut!

 

- Forte team