Got it! Now a couple questions.

Got my first one the other day. Got the works - Ralf Aust 5/8" w/Premium IV long strop upgrade, DVD, oil and Sack-Ups sleeve. VERY nice, BTW. Anyway, I won't have time to try out the razor for a few more days and was wondering if I should leave the razor wrapped and in the box it came in or should I put it in the Sack-Ups sleeve? If I put it in the sleeve, should I wipe the oil off of it first or just put it in the sleeve with oil left on it?

Also, should I skip stropping before I use the razor for the first time so I don't take a chance on dulling the blade due to improper technique? I plan on only making one swipe from the sideburn for my first time and call it a day.

Thanks!
Gary

If the razor is all oiled up and in it's original box.... I'd just leave it in the box. It hasn't had any water on it and the chances of it developing rust is very low. Plus in a box it better protected than in a sack-up sleeve.
When you do plan on shaving, wipe the razor off with a tissue. Then rinse it under some hot water. Then I would wipe it off with a tissue and see if any oil is left on the blade. If it looks cleaned up, then go about and do your first shave.

Make sure after you shave that the blade is dry before putting it away.

Taking baby steps on when you do start to shave is a good idea. Take it slow.

Thanks a lot! Hopefully I'll get to give 'er a try next week.

...and don't strop it before the first shave. It's ready for you except getting rid of the oil with a tissue and hot water as was said.

+1 to the above advice. Make sure to dry and leave open to air before putting away. Good luck with your shave

Ill throw this out there be careful wiping oil from the blade just make sure none of the pads of your fingers are hanging over the edge. I know its simple advice and seems like a no brainer but cuts suck. Enjoy and slow and easy is great advice ;)

But if you do cut yourself, they won't take as long to heal because they blade is so sharp. Best of luck and keep the distractions away during the first dozen or so shaves!