Thread: Ralf Aust stainless vs non stainless

I've been eying this certain Ralf Aust razor. A 6/8 razor with french crown and hollow shaped shoulder.
As a standard option on the website it comes with stainless carbon steel, and you're able to choose a non stainless variant.

So, my question, is there anyone that has tried both and can make a comparison?

In general I've read that stainless might need a little more time on the hones, but aside from that I'm wondering about "smoothness", does it make a difference or none at all?

Tristan,

I have had both and seen no difference in the shave.

I have used both as well and found the same thing- the shaves feel the same. I was hesitant to try a stainless bladed straight at first because of my experiences with stainless knives (stainless tends to not take as fine of an edge), but the stainless razors I have used have been excellent.

I have both stainless and non stainless Aust's and I found the stainless needed a wee bit of work when I got it as it was a little on the rough side. Once honed though there is no difference.

Merely due to the life experiences in my trade, I always will choose carbon steel over stainless. That said, I've never shaved with a stainless blade so my opinion may not be valid as far as utility goes.

I do not have Aust razors but do shave with both regular carbon blades and stainless steel blades. Have to agree that the stainless shave just as well as the carbon blades but may take a tad longer on the hones. Basically no difference for all intents and purposes. I see no reason that the Austs should be any different.

Bob

Originally Posted by Obie

Tristan,

I have had both and seen no difference in the shave.

I too have comparable Aust carbon and stainless steel razors and feel no difference between the two.


When I was new to straight razor shaving; the often repeated myth that stainless steel is (supposedly) more difficult to hone but will keep its edge longer made me prefer carbon steel razors, but as my collection of Henckels Friodur (stainless steel) razors grew I put that theory to rest.

I own some exceptional stainless steel razors and in a way prefer stainless steel now, as it gives some added corrosion protection over carbon steel.



B.

Aight thanks, I've never owned nor shaved with a stainless steel razor so I was a little curious.
I'm glad I've asked the question and got clear answers, thanks fellas!

I don't have a SS version of a Aust, only carbon which are great. I do have a SS Henckels and I assume all SS shaves the same from a reputable razor maker and it shaves like dream! But it is a older Henckels!!!!

I would not be afraid if I were you to try a Ralf Aust SS razor.

Originally Posted by beluga

I too have comparable Aust carbon and stainless steel razors and feel no difference between the two.


When I was new to straight razor shaving; the often repeated myth that stainless steel is (supposedly) more difficult to hone but will keep its edge longer made me prefer carbon steel razors, but as my collection of Henckels Friodur (stainless steel) razors grew I put that theory to rest.

I own some exceptional stainless steel razors and in a way prefer stainless steel now, as it gives some added corrosion protection over carbon steel.



B.

I have just dipped my hands in the water called Henckels and I have to agree 100%! I will have a few more soon!