A Ralf AUst is the best razor in the price range I believe! But to muddy the waters have you looked at Revisor also!!!!! Buy direct still at a great price and they are just as nice and shave like a dream!
Don't you love those of us that muddy things up my friend! But seriously, I have two RA's and they are great. I can't say anything bad about the others for I do not have one yet. I have been eyeing Brian Brown though for some time and would love to give one a try!
Out of the choices I would pick the Brian Brown razor. I have had his razors and the Aust and while the Aust is a fine razor I just like the BB razors more. That is if you like a 1/4 grind, if not go with the RA.
I am going to try and keep this one short...lol...as I have an example of each maker in my collection...so here goes (pic of each included)
Nate's: Simple design, elegant, perfection. My example doesn't look like much from afar, but if you like smaller width (5-6/8) 1/4 hollows, this is the place to be. Up close the craftsmanship speaks for itself...the perfectly small yet even bevel, expert woodworking in the scales, perfect finish on the blade, and even a subtle almost imperceptible smile (at least on mine). Truly elegant in its simplicity, and an excellent shaver. Lifetime free honing to the original owner as well!
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Brian Brown: In his non-custom department we are talking about another great maker here! I have 2 of these and both are among my favorites. 1/2 hollow grind here, and the customer can configure (6-7/8, scale color, etc). On this line, most scales are in various colors of G10 and are expertly made and pinned. Much like Nate's, expertly crafted and the subtle details stand out up-close. This is just a style thing as compared to above, but believe me you cant go wrong with these. I have purchased both directly from Mr. Brown and his service and speedy shipping are fantastic.
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Aust: I have a 7/8 Aust with horn scales purchased from SRD. Full-hollow/extra hollow and expertly crafted. These may be the biggest bang for the buck so to speak, but they do lack the subtleties of the two makers above, and for good reason...this is more of a volume operation. I have nothing bad to say here...my example holds its edge well, showed up flawless from the factory/SRD, and has served me quite well since purchased. It hones easily and feels great in-hand.
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Koraat: I purchased mine second-hand and was built as a semi-custom from the configurator online. It is still pictured on his website in the gallery:
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This one stands apart from my others in its form and weight. It is 8/8 and is heavy. It is perfectly crafted, near-wedge, and I don't think that subtle is a word for it...ever. It is a lovely shaver (I LOVE using it after not shaving for a few days and watching it mow over the growth like it was never there). Craftsmanship is over the top on this thing and I do love it. I save this one for special occasions. The hones up beautifully and is a pleasure to have. It is a step away from any of the others, however, due to size and weight so just know what you are getting into there!
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Hope that helps!
Yeah, thanks for this thread... Now I have a Nate's Straight on order ;) don't tell the wife.
Can't wait to get my grubby mitts on it, I will let you have the verdict when it arrives. That could take some time as I am in the UK, but hopefully not too long. I was also considering an Aust, but they are quite readily available over here and so I thought I would go for something that wasn't.
Can't wait to hear what your experience with the Nate's has been.Quote:
Originally Posted by Porl
I am looking into getting one myself. My only current razor is a Dovo Bismarck so want to try a 7/8th if Nate makes 'em.
Any other experience with Nate's Straights from anyone?
Thanks for the reminder, I totally forgot to update you. The Nate's Straight I have is an 11/16. The build quality is excellent and it is my current favourite razor. I always look forward to it coming round in my rotation. I really can't imagine anyone being disappointed with one. Truly excellent.Quote:
Originally Posted by 400E
It's worth following his Facebook page as he sometimes puts offers up on there.
Great idea. I am not really up to speed with social media, but time to start!Quote:
Originally Posted by Porl
Aust is fantastic fit and finish in a production razor. I have their shoulder less 6/8 round point and 7/8 Spanish point, both in horn, both full hollow. Both razors are very good shavers and great value for the money.
I have two of BBRW 7/8s one square point one Spanish, both 1/4 hollow, but they shave like full hollows. The fit and finish on both of Brian's razors are excellent, but it is his grinds that set them apart from other 1/4 hollows, they shave like full hollows. Brian also does a great job on his scales, although I did have the ghost jade scales replaced by Alfredo with Briarwood in a more traditional shape.
I have one Koraat 8/8 near wedge in stabilized Birch burl scales. Ulrik's product is superb, fit and finish are top notch. The one thing about the near wedge is...its very heavy, almost to the point of feeling unbalanced; it took several days of straight use to feel comfortable and become accustomed to the blade's weight.
Maybe I missed it, but did the OP ever state his decision?
The Aust round point is a bit oily ...didnt wipe her down bf the pic
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That birch is gorgeous...
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Got this one of a kind Nate's Straight razor for Christmas and am delighted. Nate is a real craftsman. He includes a couple of small Torx screwdrivers so the owner can tweak the tension on the pivots. He signs the package that the razor is packed in.
I've only used the razor once but it is truly shave-ready right off the bat. Really beautiful razor with good balance. Highly recommended!
