I agree, as a newbee SR shaver, I really didn't know the difference between an Aust, Dovo, or any other SR out there. Still learning but I have 3 SRs, two of them Dovo which were acquired on the initial entry into SR shaving. One a 5/8 and one a 6/8. Wanted to try them both for feel and shave quality - but most importantly, one as back-up in the event I did something bad to the first.

That theory proved out, as I nicked the blade on my 5/8 on the darn faucet, so it went back to SRD for re-honing (thanks for that coupon Lynn !). That put the 6/8 into action. Definitely a different feel than the 5/8.

Subsequently while the 5/8 Dovo was being sent back, I finally saw the Aust back in stock, so I got it (back up to my back up). It actually came in mail before the 5/8 Dovo was sent back from its repair so I put it to work. Wow, what a different feel than my 5/8 Dovo and 6/8 Dovo. Now the Aust is the primary, and I haven't even used the 5/8 Dovo since it came back from re-honing. I think I will do a side comparison (left side of face / right side of face) just to compare the two.

I made the commitment when starting SR shaving to never go back to cartridge razors. So, if you are in a belt and suspender mode, a beginner and still learning and exploring as I am, I think it is good to be able to have the backup in the event that you haven't gotten to the "honing it yourself" mode. Secondly, it is good to compare. I have really enjoyed shaving and taking a little extra time for myself in the morning. As others have said, it puts the day in a different perspective!