What type of razor is fitted with a guard close to the cutting edge?

The type of razor that is fitted with a guard close to the cutting edge is a safety razor. This design includes a protective guard that helps to reduce the risk of cuts while shaving, making it safer for the user, especially for those who may not have extensive experience with traditional shaving techniques. The guard allows for a closer shave compared to a straight razor while mitigating the potential for nicks and abrasions on the skin.

In contrast, straight razors lack this safety feature and require significant skill to use effectively, as they can be quite dangerous and require careful handling. Barber razors typically refer to straight razors or the tools used in barbering, which do not inherently have a guard. Electric razors operate on different mechanisms entirely and may not involve traditional shaving techniques at all. Thus, the safety razor stands out as the option designed with a fundamental focus on user safety and ease of use.