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

Hello, from all accounts you are in great shape right now.

Many opinions (including mine) say the Ralf Aust is a notably superior razor when compared to a Dovo of the same price range (+/-$20 or so). I have one Dovo in the rotation (had two a while back) and two RA blades..Ralf Aust is just a better product all the way around ...I think.

After nearly 40 years of using a straight, I still keep a couple 5/8 blades in the mix (both Bokers) and I enjoy them quite a bit. Yes most of my razors are 6/8 with a 7/8 or two as well. 6/8 is my preferred size blade but that is merely personal choice.

As others have said here (good advice too) a number of laps on both fabric and leather before shaving (I go 25 on fabric/50 on leather before and 25/25 after just to ensure the blade is dry before I put it up) is all I have ever done. Never used pastes...never will. No need for such I believe. Touch up stone is a good thing. Again choice is yours. I have had good luck with Welsh slate, a Naniwa 8k and/or 12k; a Zulu Grey is en route which should prove interesting. Again, all a matter of personal preference.

Only thing I can add is to take time to read the Forum threads which deal with your questions. There is a wealth of knowledge to be found (wish I had this resource 30-40 years ago) and armed with that knowledge, you will find your own path.