Thread: Did I make a mistake by buying a 5/8 straight razor?

Originally Posted by realdog4

Thanks for the replies. I bought a Ralf Aust razor/strop package from SRD. I upgraded to the 3" strop. It includes oil but no mention of paste.

Do I need paste?

Wow! This is indeed a steep learning curb.

Reminds me of the first time I went snow skiing. I wanted to try the blue run and ended up on a black diamond.

Most SR shavers use a clean (no paste) strop as a daily driver. Some, not all, have a paddle or a hanger with some paste to use occasionally but certainly not on a regular basis. At least that is how I approach it. Don't use that oil unless you want to increase the draw (resistance). If you do use it, a little goes a very long way.

Raff Aust is a fine razor. A 5/8 is a good size to start with, and many guys stay with that size. Easy to maneuver yet large enough to get the job done. Personally I don't care for 4/8 but that is more ergonomics for my thick fingers have a hard time with the skinny tangs. Some guys like those as well.