I use three basic combs for all my haircutting:
1. A standard barber comb for the final cutting around the bottom of the sides and back.
2. A flattop comb for over-the-comb tapering (stepping out cutting) around the sides and back, and for the over-the-comb top and upper side cutting on flattops and crewcuts.
3. A Wahl/Hairart comb also for over-the-comb tapering around the sides and back, plus for combing out the hair for the scissor cutting on the top and upper sides/back.
I have a black and white version for each of my three combs. Black combs for over the comb clipper cutting on gray, blond and light colored hair; the white combs for black and brown hair.
When you have a color contrast between the hair protruding from the comb and the color of the comb, your precision tapering is made easier because you’re better able to see the hairs to be cut.
The total cost for the six combs is about $10.00
Starflite Stylist #55 — $1.30 (Barber Tapering Comb)
Black Diamond Comb #711 $2.95 (Barber Tapering Comb)
White Flat Top Comb #133 $1.50
Black Flat Top Comb #132 $1.50
Wahl Flat Top Comb—White LG $1.50
Hairart Flat Top Comb—Black #6012 $1.50
Williamsport Bowman Barber Supply for mail order purchase
800-446-0029