Why is a barber's shaving stroke recommended to be between 1 and 3 inches?

The recommendation for a barber's shaving stroke to be between 1 and 3 inches is primarily to avoid shaving too far from the stretching point. When a barber stretches the skin, it creates a smooth, taut surface that allows for safer and more effective shaving. If the stroke is too long, there is a greater risk of losing control and potentially cutting skin or missing areas that need to be shaved properly. By keeping the stroke within this range, barbers maintain better control and precision, ensuring a more comfortable experience for the client and minimizing the chances of nicking the skin or causing irritation. Focusing on the stretching point helps maintain the effectiveness and safety of the shave.