I just ordered a Ralf Aust 5/8 from SRD and had my first shave with it yesterday. It was awesome! I had been using a vintage "shave ready" razor for a couple weeks and found myself having trouble getting good shaves and making any real progress. It definitely helps to have a benchmark from Lynn. I now realize that my old razor needs a good honing. I probably dulled it while stropping. Oh well. I guess that's all part of being a newb. Good luck and I hope you enjoy your Aust as much as I do!