Brushes tend to be on the expensive side but I felt this was a very good deal compared to what is out there. The only reason it got a 9 for quality is because of a pin head sized dent in the base of the handle on my example otherwise I would have given it a 10. I believe the Duke and Chubby are both more densely packed but I honestly prefer it because it releases lather easier. Simpson best is my favorite grade of hair so far and I feel it is the perfect balance of soft and stiff. Ergonomically it is easy to hold and nice for bowl lathering, the handle hooks on the edge of the bowl well when not in use. This brush lathers so easily and hold a ton of water. This brush is my favorite badger brush to date.