Scott Raisbeck (RAZ)

How long you have been a surfer?

30 plus years
 

How long have you been shaping?

22 years
 

How did you get into the industry?

I was at an NSSA contest at Salt Creek when I was a grom. The money I had for my new board was stolen and since I couldn't pay for my new stick, I had to ask my shaper, Tom Eberly, if I could work it off. He sent me out to the ally to sweep and pull weeds. I worked hard enough for him to let me continue working for him for next several years, soaking up everything I could about surfboard making, from start to finish. I swear he was Chandler (from the North Shore).
 

Who have you shaped for?

Linden, Brewer, Byrne, Xanadu, Rusty, Lost…, Timmy Patterson, Donald Takayama.
 

What is your shaping philosophy?

Speed, performance, creativity. Being willing to take each person and build them what they want, instead of building a pop-out. Every surfer loves surfing, but when you are on a magic board, how much more do you love surfing? I want to build that board!
 

Who influences you?

Xanadu's innovation, individuality and willingness to push beyond the envelope. Rusty's detail and numerically sound approach to design. Michael Baron's work ethic. Biolos' ability to see the industry for what it is and his evolving approach to design. T. Patt's pure craftsmanship from start to finish.
 

Why do you like building surfboards?

The end result, seeing someone frothing over a brand new board and getting a phone call saying how stoked they are after their first session.
 

What are you striving for, in terms of your shaping?

Appreciating all the knowledge of the shapers before me. Developing a consistent relationship with each individual. Being open-minded to different approaches and advances in the use of modern materials. Utilizing the most forward thinking technologies, yet staying true to the roots of board building. Building a New Kreation.