That thread again!

[angelino]

So as I know you have all read many times before, I am in the market for a nice high end brush. I recently started wet shaving and love it. Currently have an AoS brush that came with the higher end travel kit and I hate it, its pure badger, the gritty feel isn't too bad i don't mind a little bit of scratch but id prefer soft. But this brush sheds like theres no tomorrow, usually 5-8 hairs every time I lather up! Im looking for a nice brush thats soft but not to floppy, a medium-large handle, I have big hands and have a hard time holding on to my small brush while bowl lathering. I know YMMV but any recommendations would be appreciated. No price limit but if its going to cost me $200.00
I'd like it to last a long time. Im in the US if that plays a part in it.

Thanks, James

 

[TallyShave]

Thater in 3 Band...pick your size.

 

[Face&Head]

In descending order of preference Rooney Heritage, Thater 2-Band Bulb, Shavemac 3-Band D01 (26mm knot), Simpson Persian Jar 3 in Super. I recommend that you sell one of your children and then buy all four; you'll never need another brush and you can always have more children.

 

[angelino]

If only i was an older man i would have to quote that sir.

In descending order of preference Rooney Heritage, Thater 2-Band Bulb, Shavemac 3-Band D01 (26mm knot), Simpson Persian Jar 3 in Super. I recommend that you sell one of your children and then buy all four; you'll never need another brush and you can always have more children.

 

[taco8slo]

Morris and Forndran blonde badger, Simpson Chubby 2 in best, Simpson Duke 3 in best.

 

[DaveL]

Soft but not floppy? Try a synthetic fiber brush. Those B&Bers who've tried them sing their praises. I plan to get one for myself soon.

 

[angelino]

Hmm I'm thinking its a toss up between a nice med-lrg Rooney Vs Thater. Much harder to find Thaters and I definitely cannot find the three band version new.

 

[mwhitcraft]

I love my Thater silvertip 4125/2. Very soft but plent of backbone.

 

[BallisticBurrito]

If you're stepping up from a AOS Brush I don't really see a reason to throw $200 at a brush.

My first brush was a Omega 636 Silvertip for $45..still have it..still friggin love it.

But that's just me.

 

[mattnick]

Rooney heritage is my favorite, but keep in mind it might not just cost you $200. Once you get it you'll still likely wonder about some of the other recommendations, and still want to try just one more for varieties sake. The "perhaps I'd like to try one more" is the expensive part. But it is a lot of fun!

 

[angelino]

If you're stepping up from a AOS Brush I don't really see a reason to throw $200 at a brush.

My first brush was a Omega 636 Silvertip for $45..still have it..still friggin love it.

But that's just me.

Well, I know i love wet shaving and I do not plan on stoping. Why buy a step up so i will replace when i want more, why not just go straight to the top and enjoy? I'm young enough to not have many bills so my money can be spent without a problem. If i will enjoy it its worth it imo.

 

[BallisticBurrito]

Well, I know i love wet shaving and I do not plan on stoping. Why buy a step up so i will replace when i want more, why not just go straight to the top and enjoy? I'm young enough to not have many bills so my money can be spent without a problem. If i will enjoy it its worth it imo.

I also do not plan on stopping..and I also don't see me replacing my 636 with something 5x the cost anytime soon.

 

[mwhitcraft]

Well, I know i love wet shaving and I do not plan on stoping. Why buy a step up so i will replace when i want more, why not just go straight to the top and enjoy? I'm young enough to not have many bills so my money can be spent without a problem. If i will enjoy it its worth it imo.

I couldn't agree more. When I was just getting started a lot of people tried to dissuade me from getting top notch equipment until I had tried all the intermediate steps. I never did, but I did a lot of research before I made any purchases. I was never disappointed in what I bought. In fact, I am so happy with my equipment (especially my only razor, a TI 6/8" half hollow ground) that I don't see myself making any more major purchases unless something I have breaks. If it does, I will more than likely replace it with exactly the same thing.

Don't get me wrong. I am not in favor of buying the most expensive product because it "must" be better than a cheaper one. Buy smart, buy quality and you will be happy with what you get!

 

[angelino]

I couldn't agree more. When I was just getting started a lot of people tried to dissuade me from getting top notch equipment until I had tried all the intermediate steps. I never did, but I did a lot of research before I made any purchases. I was never disappointed in what I bought. In fact, I am so happy with my equipment (especially my only razor, a TI 6/8" half hollow ground) that I don't see myself making any more major purchases unless something I have breaks. If it does, I will more than likely replace it with exactly the same thing.

Don't get me wrong. I am not in favor of buying the most expensive product because it "must" be better than a cheaper one. Buy smart, buy quality and you will be happy with what you get!

My thoughts exactly, and I don't care if i have the most expensive brush I don't care if its $20 or $200 I just want a great brush.

 

[Danricgro]

If it was me and money was basically no object I would get either a Shavemac or a Thater in the size and hair grade of your choice and also get a Semogue Owners Club in boar. Never even seen a Shavemac or Thater in person but they are universally praised and I really want one (unfortunately, money is an object for me). I own a Owners Club and it is a very nice brush. That would give you a great badger and a great boar for some variety.

 

[Patman27]

If you are in the mood to sample, Truefitt & Hill have rebranded Rooney's that come with a sampler of their creams. B&B discount makes up for shipping. http://wiki.badgerandblade.com/Vendor_Discounts

If not, I have personally always wanted to try a Shavemac to get something a tad stiffer, but I wouldn't give up the Rooney I have for one. It is a great performer and super soft.

 

[angelino]

I hear the 3-Band Thater is softer then 2-band, but i can't seem to find a new 3-Band anywhere. If i can't find one it will be a toss up between a 2-Band Thater, T&H Rebranded Rooney, and a Rooney Heritage.

 

[Jarlzax]

I hear the 3-Band Thater is softer then 2-band, but i can't seem to find a new 3-Band anywhere. If i can't find one it will be a toss up between a 2-Band Thater, T&H Rebranded Rooney, and a Rooney Heritage.

If your heart is set on a Thater, RoyalShave has several of their 3 band brushes. They have a lot of styles, too, including one in Cocolobo that I've been drooling over. AND They have free shipping on orders over 25$.

 

[angelino]

If your heart is set on a Thater, RoyalShave has several of their 3 band brushes. They have a lot of styles, too, including one in Cocolobo that I've been drooling over. AND They have free shipping on orders over 25$.

EDIT: I learned to use google.... Anyway that Cocolobo brush is digging at my wallet haha. It is a good thing my birthday is in two weeks and SWMBO loves to get nice presents!

 

[T-Box215]

I have a Shavemac 944, albeit likely too small for you @ 22mm Silvertip DO1 its a great brush and I have my monogram on the handle.