@SwamperWI
That's my favorite handle. I have a 24 Maggard Synthetic (brown, mock horse knot). I deep set it for some extra back bone for a face lathering travel brush. Those handles had a deep swallow, so you can get it as stiff as you like. I am probably going to build another, because when I am home I often rob it out my travel dop kit.
If you don't want to rub plastics on your face and don't want synths, I'd say try a horse. They're very soft and unique feeling. My dream is to have a Zenith horse but they're 50 bucks and my wife would kill me hah.
These two. 11137 or 10081.If you like boar brushes, maybe try an Omega knot in a smaller size. They have several brushes with 24mm knots and around 55mm loft. I'd recommend the ash wood handle 11137 as a great all-rounder. Under $15.
Another excellent smaller Omega brush is the beehive boar 10081. Under $10.
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For synthetics, the SynBad knot in the 24mm size is a good suggestion. Yaqi has a similar knot that they call Mew Brown. An oldie-but-goodie recommendation is the Razorock Bruce 24mm Plissoft brush. Very comfortable.
I second these motions. I would get a cheap Zenith or Omega in the 55-57mm loft range AND a Yaqi 24mm Plissoft. Shipping from two places may take you a wee bit over $25 but you know what...
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You will be glad you did!
P.S. For a limited time only, I am offering membership in "Enablers R' Us" at a special, discounted rate. PM for details.
I will second this Omega 40033, excellent smaller brush! Good right out of the box. I used mine 100 times in a row and I have many great brushes to choose from lol.View attachment 1704773
The very small looking but not so small performing Omega Mighty Midget is usually under $10. As pictured it was three #13 O-rings added which improves the already plenty good grip. The knot is very stiff initially. It benefits from a good bit of breaking in. Still, it is a good knot from the get-go.
I'd say it's the best under $10 brush made. I believe mine was $7 at Connaught but mine's several years old now.
Happy shaves,
Jim