Thread: Need Help Deciding

I have been happily wet shaving with DE and SE razors since July now, and have developed quite the collection of both vintage and new razors. I plan on getting a straight razor pretty soon, but I have a few questions. The razor company I would like to go with is Ralf Aust. I see that there are several different point options including Round, Square, and Spanish... I understand what each one means, but for a straight razor newbie like myself, what would be best? Also, in my DE experience, I've found I like a slightly heavier, yet maneuverable razor. So, would a 5/8 or 6/8 be better for me? I am thinking a 5/8, but I would greatly appreciate your opinions!

All of these decisions are highly subjective. What is right for a new SR shaver varies from person to person.

You cannot go wrong with Aust. I have two and they are great shavers. If you get one from SRD it will be honed by Lynn and shave ready.

I prefer heavier blades so mine are 7/8. Other people like 5/8. You have to decide for yourself through trial and error. Hopefully, not many errors.

The round point will probably give you the least trouble. ALL of them will cut if you take your eye off that edge. Concentration is the name of the game.

Good luck and let us know what you decide.

Good afternoon. I agree you cant go wrong with Aust. I just got the 5/8 round point along with their strop from SRD. This razor is fantastic. I too am very new to the world of SR but with that being said Lynn put an absolute fantastic edge on this razor and the size feels great for me and level of skill. I would definitely recommend it.

Hope that helps

Phil

Originally Posted by Phil129

Good afternoon. I agree you cant go wrong with Aust. I just got the 5/8 round point along with their strop from SRD. This razor is fantastic. I too am very new to the world of SR but with that being said Lynn put an absolute fantastic edge on this razor and the size feels great for me and level of skill. I would definitely recommend it.

Hope that helps

Phil

Thanks for the response! I am really leaning towards the 5/8 size. I will also be getting the modular paddle strop with an extra leather pad --- just in case I nick up the first one!

Another question. Do I need to get oil for it, or would keeping the blade dry and away from moisture be enough?

That depends. If you are going to use this razor everyday then probably not.

OTOH, some people oil their blades after every use.

A little oil on the pivot from time to time will not hurt.

If you oil your blade be sure it is dry before doing so. All razors should be air dried after using. Most users strop on linen and leather after each use and then air dry.

If you live in Houston you have humidity: If you live in El Paso then not so much. I would not store the razor in the bath.

The type of oil is often debated. Gun oil, mineral oil and commercial lubricating oil will work.

Originally Posted by rolodave

That depends. If you are going to use this razor everyday then probably not.

OTOH, some people oil their blades after every use.

A little oil on the pivot from time to time will not hurt.

If you oil your blade be sure it is dry before doing so. All razors should be air dried after using. Most users strop on linen and leather after each use and then air dry.

If you live in Houston you have humidity: If you live in El Paso then not so much. I would not store the razor in the bath.

The type of oil is often debated. Gun oil, mineral oil and commercial lubricating oil will work.

You mention people strop after - i read somewhere that you shouldn't strip directly after as the blade should be given 24 hours to rest. is that wrong? Sorry if that's a silly question.

Originally Posted by MidnightMatador

Thanks for the response! I am really leaning towards the 5/8 size. I will also be getting the modular paddle strop with an extra leather pad --- just in case I nick up the first one!

Another question. Do I need to get oil for it, or would keeping the blade dry and away from moisture be enough?

For sure get an extra leather pad. My first strop I cut up pretty bad by the time I replaced it. Im glad it wasnt a nice one It shouldnt take too long to get the technique down. I have some mineral oil, I dont use it that often but perhaps I should.

The consensus on resting after seems to be that it is a wives tale. If you like a bit more weight then the 6/8. I also find the larger ones need the lather cleaned off less while shaving and easier to see the angle on my face. But again everyone has different preferences. I also prefer a hanging strop and find smaller than 6/8 a wee bit awkward on the strop. Aust will be a good razor whichever you go for.

Just pulled the trigger! It should be here in time for my birthday. I included one of those cotton and silicone sleeves for added protection in storage. I do live in the Texas panhandle, so low humidity, but I just want to be careful.

How are you going to use if you have to unwrap it everyday :<0) JK .... Enjoy