Life cycle of a boar brush?

[dpm802]

How long does a boar brush last? Specifically, I'm talking about my beloved Semogue 1305, but this question applies to all boars in general.

I've had the 1305 for about 3 years now, and its given me some terrific shaves. The knot broke in easily after a month or so, and it just got better and better over time. But lately, it seems to have hit its peak and is on the decline. It doesn't have the same backbone that it once did, and it doesn't seem to hold as much water as before.

Is 3 years of use normal for a boar brush? I've also got 2 SOCs, but I wind up using the 1305 most of the time.

I guess its no big deal if I need to replace it, since they're cheap enough. I just worry that the next brush won't break in as nicely as this one did. My 2 SOCs don't lather or shave the same, even though they're both about the same age, so I know there is variance between identical knots.

If I do replace it, I'd like to get the same knot as the 1305, but I think I'll go for an acrylic handle this time. Which model is that? 8x0? Or does Semogue make other brushes with the 1305 knot? I'd love to keep the same shape handle, but in a more resilient material.

 

[nav]

Not sure about the life cycle but the 830 has the same premium grade hair but 10% more than the 1305. This would suggest you would get a 1305 knot that is denser but in reality, the 830 is a floppy boar brush. It doesn't feel denser than the 1305 despite the extra hair because it is so floppy.

I love the 830 and the 1305 for different reasons but I thought I would warn you so you are not disappointed.

 

[SteveWY]

This thread exemplifies the "need" for several brushes! I was just thinking about brush longevity. I have never tested how long a brush will last with every day use. I have to think one brush would certainly last 3-4 years easy. So, if I use 6-7 brushes in rotation I should be good for 20-25 years. Right? That should get me close to my last shave on earth. Hmmm, maybe I should get a couple more brushes.

 

[dpm802]

I agree that there is a need for multiple brushes ... my SBAD collection is somewhere around 20. But there is just a small handful I keep out for regular use. And out of those, the 1305 has been getting the most use for the last couple of years.

The others I have out on the counter are a Rooney 3/1 Super and 2 SOC boars, one in cherry and one in ash. The ash brush is way ahead in terms of softness of the tips, the cherry seems to have a bit more backbone but is slightly scritchier. Same knot, same age, but they each got broken in differently.

BTW, the 1305 is not shedding. It lost 2 or 3 bristles right at the start, and then no more. It just feels different than it did a year ago, and doesn't seem to hold as much water or make as much lather as before.

I'm wondering if maybe a good cleaning will restore the 1305 to its former glory? Or are its days numbered, and its time to get a new one?

 

[Attila]

I would try a good cleaning first. With a soak in 50/50 vinegar and water and then shampoo and a good rinse off. Try it again after that.

 

[_JP_]

Thanks guys! I needed a reason, excuse enabling to keep buying the B&B Essentials!

 

[Elder Scrolls]

My 1305 is about 2 years old....its floppier now and is beginning to shed, the metal ring has also cracked.....I still use it once in a while but most of the time it sits like a boss on the shelf like an old war veteran. I will not replace the brush bec it will always be my one and only 1305.

 

[HUF]

This thread exemplifies the "need" for several brushes! I was just thinking about brush longevity. I have never tested how long a brush will last with every day use. I have to think one brush would certainly last 3-4 years easy. So, if I use 6-7 brushes in rotation I should be good for 20-25 years. Right? That should get me close to my last shave on earth. Hmmm, maybe I should get a couple more brushes.

I have used a low-grade Muhle boar for 20 years exclusively. It lost some 25% of the bristles but still does the job. I would say a quality boar brush will provide an excellent service for at least 10 years.

 

[sea]

interesting thread, I haven't seen a discussion about the longevity of brushes until now. Unfortunately, I haven't been using brushes long enough to contribute anything useful.