Decision: Boker Elite, Ralf Aust 6/8" Spanish with Horn, or Hart Steel 6/8 Spike

Ok I think the thread title says it all. I've been looking at the above mentioned razors for some time and since they are currently in stock, I've been given permission to order my Christmas gift early.:)

I currently own an Aust 5/8" round point and like it very much. The Aust 6/8" in yellow horn looks beautiful, but I also like the look of the Boker Elite. I like the look of the shoulderless with the thumb notch of the Elite but not sure if it gives any issues with stropping or not.

Then there is the Hart Steel which, if it wasn't for the price, I'd probably already own but I've been waiting for an occasion to justify it. Anyway, I'm curious to know what you guys think. Anybody own any of the two or three that I've mentioned and have a preference?

Easy decision! Get them all!!! All kidding aside I personally would get the Aust. I have one and love it. Whatever you decide good luck.

Personally, I'd go for a beautiful 100+ year old vintage blade...for me, that's what it's all about...but from your choices above...personally think I'd go Boker. :)

Get all three!
I enjoy trying different razors. So since you already own an Aust, I'd go with the Boker, but the Hart is just as good of a choice. You probably end up with all 3 of them at some point, so maybe the question is, Which do I want to try first?
RAD sure does hurt the wallet. :)

I like variety so I'd go for the Boker.

Quote:

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Originally Posted by thebigspendur

I like variety so I'd go for the Boker.

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Agreed - and there is a nice Boker in the Classifieds right now.

If only one has a Spanish Point, that is the one that I will pick. OTOH, if I need a special occasion to justify the most expensive of the bunch, and this is a special enough occasion, that is the one I would pick. :)

Hart. Love my hart.

Then again I love my 7/8 Aust Spanish point and my Bokers too. Maybe you do need to get all three.

People won't like this answer but I have a Hart and I wish I would have spent my money on a vintage. Maybe it's just bad luck but it wasn't shave ready and it shows every blemish after being wet. I feel like no matter how fast I wipe the blade after use... It leaves water marks. JMO not worth the 300 I paid.

I have had, have, and shaved with all of the straights you mention. As beautiful and well made as the Boker elite is I found it a bit heavy for me. But I am an old guy and arthritis is more and more of an issue. I am also used to Japanese western full hollows which are lighter than the Boker but the same weight as the Aust. The Aust would be a great choice and the Boker as well from my point of view. Whatever you choose, enjoy.