Now I get it. I previously used another razor with mixed results. Stepped up to this Ralf Aust based on some blog and forum comments. I liked the idea of the craftsman producing these one at a time. Used my new razor, which came shave ready, with fantastic results this morning. Great shave and totally different experience from my other razor. Buy it.

This is an excellent razor, but mine was not entirely shave-ready out of the box. I got about a shave and a half out of it before it would no longer cut anything. Five minutes with an 8k and a 15k finishing stone (don't tape your spine) and now it's wonderful. The stock edge was disappointing, but for the price I'm quite happy with the quality of the razor overall.

I bought this razor after the first time shaving with the Ralf Aust 5/8. The ease of that razor made me question if the 6/8 would be better due to the extra size and weight of this one. It is just as great as the 5/8 with the added bonus of not having to use as much pressure. I will continue to shave with both of these razors because they are absolutely flawless in quality, workmanship and ease of use. I'm still getting used to straight razors in general but, I am looking forward to many more great shaves with these fine precision instruments. I have nothing bad to say about either one of these razors. If you're on the fence about getting either the 5/8 or 6/8, just get them....you won't regret your decision. Happy shaving!

The finish is great and I like the weight. It will take a few shaves to get used to a 6/8, but so far I am very happy.