HOW TO ZERO-GAP YOUR CLIPPER

Zero-gapping moves the top blade forward until it's flush with the bottom blade. The result: skin-close cuts without switching to a balding clipper.

Warning

Zero-gapped blades are razor sharp. Never touch the blade edge. Never use on sensitive skin without testing first.

What You Need

• Your clipper (Wahl Magic Clip, Andis Master, or BaByliss FX870)
• Small flathead screwdriver
• Clipper oil
• Clean cloth

Step by Step

Step 1. Turn off the clipper. Remove the blade assembly by pressing the release tab.

Step 2. Loosen the two blade screws — do not remove them fully. Just enough to slide the blade.

Step 3. Slide the top blade forward until it aligns flush with the bottom blade. The teeth should be perfectly level.

Step 4. Retighten the screws. Do not overtighten — this cracks the blade rail.

Step 5. Oil the blade. Run the clipper for 30 seconds. Check alignment again.

Clipper-Specific Notes

Wahl Magic Clip — has a built-in zero-gap lever. Pull it down instead of adjusting screws.

Andis Master — requires the screw method above. Takes practice to get perfect alignment.

BaByliss FX870 — zero-gaps via the taper lever. Push lever to closed position.

When to Zero-Gap

Use zero-gap for skin fades below the occipital bone and for cleaning up hairlines. Return to normal gap for bulk cutting — zero-gap on coarse hair causes blade drag and heat.