Too many to choose from!!

[USMC]

Okay gents, I need some help on this one. We all know that Christmas is coming up in two months and I've already.....already been getting asked to put together my Santa List for family and friends. So, I decided I wanted a new brush this year. My first one was obtained in a starter kit bought here on B&B over a year ago. I think it's time for a new brush. So, my problem is that there are just so many dang brushes. So I'll ask for advice using the guidelines posted in a sticky.

1. My only current brush is a Omega Pure 63185. Knot is 22, Loft 55, Height 104.
2. I use only creams, and I bowl lather.
3. I have a bigger face, and think that my brush is a bit small. Also, I'd like to see more water retention as well. I constantly have to add water to the brush throughout the shave.
4. For aesthetics, I'm not really fond of the white handles. Other than that, could care less.
5. So budget. This one is a bit sticky because this will be a gift. I'd like to keep it under 80 if possible, however could probably go to a hard max of a 100.
6. Size - My current brush is 22mm. I could handle one a bit bigger than that.
7. Brushes that have already piqued your interest - Well honestly, the only thing I'm certain on is probably that it will be a "best" rated brush. There are quite a few brands out there and I have no idea which are better than others.
8. I plan on having this brush for quite awhile. I have not really been effected by any kind of AD at all, probably due to lack of money. I view myself as a very bare-bones type of shaver, but I want a bit more luxury in my brush for a more enjoyable shave.


I hope this helps, and if you need more info, please just ask. I'll check in on this thread for the next few days.

 

[weenerdog3443]

Rudy Vey. He can make one for ya. just tell him what design and knot your looking for with price range...

 

[DunEdinRanger]

Perhaps this is the brush for you?

On a serious note, have you checked this thread: http://badgerandblade.com/vb/showthread.php?t=173953&highlight=harvard+brush

 

[njpaddy]

I use creams and a scuttle. I also started with an Omega, a Stripey #63171. Never really liked it as I thought it too floppy. For last Christmas I treated myself to a Rooney 3/1 Super at Vintage Blades for $75. Love that brush, it's the only brush I use. However with all the talk and photos of Simpson's lately, I added a Simpson Colonel X2L in Best ($65 at West Coast) to this year's Christmas list. It seems to have a lot of fans here. If my wife doesn't take the hint for Christmas, I'll treat myself for New Years.

 

[noahpictures]

Brushes that are perfect for creams can easily be found on B/S/T. I sold a 24mm pure badger brush that had the softest tips for only $15.

 

[Loner16]

This does seem to be the Renaissance for brush makers in general, fueled by the current shave rage.
I'm in love with both of my New Forests, but I've got the itch for a Simpson PJ3... I just can't seem to get enough of that Persian Jar shaped handle!

Perhaps I'll find one under the tree??

 

[Trendkill]

Maybe a Shavemac Finest or Silvertip would do the trick. WCS has a few you should look at.

 

[MikeC]

Go with a Shavemac!

 

[Loric]

Rudy Vey would be able to make something wonderful for you. He is most likely your best option while keeping in your price range. I have a 24mm TGN Sivertip Grade A (not from Rudy, but he often makes brushes with TGN knots) that is very nice and soft, this might be a good place to start with for your knot. I think a 55mm loft might be good for bowl lathering. Mine is set at 47mm and is better for face lathering.

Shavemac is a great choice, but it would come in close to your price limit. Plus I have only used the high end D01 line, and that would strictly be over your price limit. However by all accounts the best and silvertip lines are great.