Since this review thread includes a silvertip Shavemac, I hought I'd add mine here. Back in 2002 I had Bernt customize a medium sized Thuja wood model (#22064) with his best silvertip (D01 wasn't available in those days). The delivered brush measured 48mm for the handle, overall height of 110mm. The knot is 23mm which given the height puts the loft at a big 62mm. Unfortunately this great ergonomic handle style (the #153) in no longer in the Shavemac catalog.
I've managed to keep the wood in great shape by periodic applications of a mixture of food grade mineral oil and beeswax. I use that same mix on my kitchen's wood cutting boards. The original finish exhibits the wear you'd expect from use and repeated immersion in hot water. Here it is pictured aside a 2007 Rooney Style 2 Size 1 (small) 22mm knot Super brush to give an overall size comparison.
The loft of the Shavemac has never been an issue working very well with both creams and soaps alike. It holds a great deal of water, is not overly "floppy", and is super soft befitting a great silvertip. I use a hot water heated stainless backbackers' cup to whip up lather. All the accolades others have made about Shavemac's silvertip brushes holds true here. After 8 years of use it continues to be an outstanding tool and my favorite brush in my shaving arsenal.
Here's a shot of the respective blooms:
With the Shavemac's silvertip being pre-July 2005, many are equating it with the current D01 supergrade silvertip from Berdt. All I know, not having a newer Shavemac silvertip, is that this puppy has nice backbone yet oh so soft.