6 Classic Buzzcuts That Never Go Out of Style

Take this short cut straight to your barber.

By

Updated on 03/27/19

The term "buzzcut" is a general term used to categorize most haircuts that are short all over the head and cut entirely with clippers. In this category, there are several distinct haircuts which are often generically referred to as a buzzcut. Let's take a look at each. Before you try one of these styles, I suggest printing a copy and taking it to your barber or stylist to ensure you get exactly the haircut you're looking for.

Crewcut

The crewcut can also be referred to as a brush cut. For this style, the hair is cut short on the sides and back. On top, the hair is buzzed shorter at the crown and gradually gets longer at the front hairline. The top is cut in a manner which conforms to the shape of the head. This is one of the more versatile buzzcut haircuts as the front fringe can be worn up with a little wax or paste or down with little or no styling product.

Burr

This is the shortest type of "buzzcut" where the hair is clipped to a single length (normally 1/8" or shorter) all over the head. This haircut is the type of cut new recruits receive upon entering the military. This is a very easy type of buzzcut to give yourself at home as very little tapering is required -- just take the guard off of the clipper and buzz everything down to the same length.

Butch

This is a longer version of the burr. The hair is cut to about 1/4" over the entire top and tapered neatly on the sides and back. This haircut is particularly well suited to athletes and military men, but it can also look great paired with a smart suit for an office environment.

Flattop

The sides and back are cut similar to a crewcut, except the hair on top is cut with an emphasis on flatness. A short flattop, viewed from above, will show a bit of scalp in the center "landing strip" and will resemble a horseshoe. This is the most difficult type of buzzcut to give and requires a barber who knows what he or she is doing. A flattop also requires more frequent trips to the barber to maintain the right shape.

Brush Cut

For this style, the hair is cut short on the back and sides and a manner similar to a flattop. The top is cut the same length all over (about 1/2 to 1/4 of an inch long) and conforms to the top of the head. The hair is combed up so that the top resembles the bristles of a brush. The end result is similar to a flattop, except with rounded corners.

High and Tight

This cut is common among Marines, Army Rangers, and athletes. The hair is normally clipped short on the top (no more than about 1/4") while the sides and back are shaved completely clean all the way up to the round of the head). There is minimal blending into the top section.