Thread: It is "almost" time.

I Agree with all of that, and the classifieds, I think, right now have some great vintage razors that would work, but you may want to PM a mentor: think round point, 5/8 or 6/8 known seller, soligen possibly.
I don't have a Ralf Aust but I started on a 6/8 Dovo, good place to start.. I agree from what I have read Aust or Dovo are safe bets..

Thank you for responding. I have read all posts and the one thing I have learned is to find a mentor in my area. That is my next step. I am in Winston Salem NC, USA. Where is the Mentor here?

You can see a list of users in North Carolina, sorted by the date of their most recent post, with this link.

Straight Razor Designs sell the Ralf Aust in both 5/8" and 6/8" for a good price.
Their razors come professionally honed to "shave ready" which is nice.
I think they come with a certificate for one free hone after that.
As a beginner I would recommend the "round point", less chance of cuts and nicks.
You will also need a strop and they have a great range to choose from.
You can check your area for a mentor or a group for advice.

Welcome to the forum !!

+ 1

I ordered the "Ralf Aust 5/8" Black Straight Razor Set" from Straight Razor Designs. I placed the order on 04/19/15 and received it 04/22/15. I am glad I ordered it. My First shave with the straight razor was only my cheeks (safety first). Kept a good lather and moved North to South. Glad I got the DVD too. More to come!