Thread: My first straight; a Ralf Aust

This past Saturday, I picked up my Ralf Aust from SRD in person. It is a really nice looking razor and Lynn put one heck of an edge on it. When I got it, Don was behind the counter and let me know that I will have to modify my technique after using a shavette.

After stripping, I put it to the test. I did better than expected. I was BBS on my cheeks and CCS on my chin and under my nose. But I know that with practice, I will be able to get those areas as close as I currently do with my shavette. Since I got BBS on the cheeks, I think it is safe to say I didn't roll the edge during my very first outing on the strop.

If there is one thing I would mention to anybody considering the Aust, or any other razor with plastic scales, be careful when you close the razor. The scales flex and if you're gripping the scales too tightly, you can possibly hit the scales with the edge.

All in all, I am satisfied with my purchase. I'm sure I'll really like it more whn I nail my technique and get BBS all over my face.

I got my RA from the guys at SRD as well. Such a great razor and Lynn puts an excellent edge on it. I've been very happy with mine so far and each shave it gets better as I do.

I personally have not used a Ralf Aust but I've heard nothing but good things about them. Sounds like you're off to a great start. You are correct about being careful when closing the razor too. This goes for any scale material really.

Pictures and congrats! Yes a RA is one of the best razors I have used. That is why I have more than one!

I purchased the same razor from srd as my first It's my first 30 days using it and the shaves are getting pretty good. I did notice the same thing about the scale flex. I try to hold it lightly as I close it

Great razors, I purchased one from SRD as well! Good point about the plastic scales, I have damaged an edge on scales before

Originally Posted by donaldjr1969

If there is one thing I would mention to anybody considering the Aust, or any other razor with plastic scales, be careful when you close the razor. The scales flex and if you're gripping the scales too tightly, you can possibly hit the scales with the edge.

Glad you enjoyed that Aust. I have two, which were among my first.

Just FYI, all scales flex...some more, some less...it is part of the mechanical design that make the razor work as it does, and why most have a wedge at the toe instead of a straight filler. There is a whole thread or two (or more) on here somewhere about how it all works. It is quite ingenious.

Again, glad you're enjoyed your razor!

I never do the Fool's Pass. When I was taught it was considered a no-no because there are so many facial and proximity to cranial nerves in that area that any serious cut esp if it gets infected can lead to permanent damage

Congrats on your Aust. I bought one for my first(and still only...for now) straight and love it

Count me in too, I have nothing but good things to say about a Ralph Aust razor ! My thanks goes out to SRD also for their service and great prices on them.