So after few years of using Merkur products, and finally discovering this website I ordered shavemac #177 21mm brush. It arrived promptly and I tried my first shave with it. Brush is smaller than my Merkur was. Even though its not broken in yet, it still felt soft although not as soft as Merkur Silvertip. I used it right away after soaking it for 10 minutes in hot water but I didn't do the shampooing and vinegar as it didn't smell 
So far I only used it with un-named soap that a friend of mine gave me and did a dry brush loading and lathering that I learned here. Lather came out very nice and I was able to do 3 pass shave with it. Its also very small and should be a good brush for taking with me when I'm traveling. No need for a travel brush.
As you can see my shaving is getting smoother and better. between this brush and fatboy I'm enjoying it so far. Now its time to research and obtain some shaving creams
Alex
So far I only used it with un-named soap that a friend of mine gave me and did a dry brush loading and lathering that I learned here. Lather came out very nice and I was able to do 3 pass shave with it. Its also very small and should be a good brush for taking with me when I'm traveling. No need for a travel brush.
As you can see my shaving is getting smoother and better. between this brush and fatboy I'm enjoying it so far. Now its time to research and obtain some shaving creams
Alex
. Nice choice. It'll break in...don't worry.
