The Razor steel is nice, the scales are less than desirable. The scales are very flimsy and cheap. If I would have known this, I would have passed.

Very good razor but definitely not shave ready.

Holds and edge and allows beginners to wield the blade easily. I own two Ralf Aust and plan to own no others.

I was told this razor came ready to shave. I decided to test that theory. They weren’t kidding. Since that first shave I have only stropped after each shave. I have been using the razor almost 3 weeks now and the shaves just keep getting better. This razor sets flat on a flat surface plate with no wobble so it should be no problem to hone. My Gold Dollar had a serious wobble on my flat surface. It required some serious reprofile work before I could hone an even edge across the blade. I would love to get a Ralf Aust with a nice wood handle but that can wait. After all, you shave with the steel not the wood. If you’re on the fence about this razor, don’t be. This is a quality razor.