I've been using combs that come in packs of five at the checkout line of the pharmacy for all of my life. Ever since picking up wet shaving I noticed that Kent, Mason-Pearson, and other badger brush manufacturers make handmade combs. Does anyone use them? Are they worth the premium? Can someone recommend a better comb? The kind that doesn't scrape your scalp or snag every time you use it like the pharmacy brands.
What is the best alternative to cheap plastic combs?
- Thread starter cernel_joson
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I have been using hand-made, saw-cut combs exsclusively for about 30 years now, and there's no way that I would ever go back to the generic plastic ones! Right now I own 3 - two from Kent and an old one with the Montclair label that I've had since the 70's.
It's amazing just how much more comfortable a hand polished, saw-cut comb is when you run it through your hair. Occaisionally I have to use one of the drugstore monstrosities, and it feels like it's cutting my scalp to shreds.
To answer your question on whether it's worth the premium price, IMO it's definitely worth it - as a matter of fact, I'd even pay more than the going price to use them. About the only reason I can think of for not using them is if you tend to lose your combs on a regular basis; otherwise, they are without compare.As far as recommendations go, my recent experience is with Kent and I can recommend them heartily. Good prices, great quality, and they stand behind their products. Give one a try and post your results. I'll bet you'll be raving about them!
I got a Kent handmade hand sawed pocket comb a while back and to me, there's not much difference between it and just a cheapo ACE regular hard rubber comb that costs way less.
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Thanks for the testimonials Wingnut and RazorPete. Do you mind if I ask what model number you purchased Wingnut? One thing that the handmade combs beat the cheapo combs hands down is aesthetics, and I think that'll push me over the edge.
I carry one of the folding Kent combs, model 20T. I always used to carry a cheap plastic drugstore comb. Those were OK, but always ended up with broken teeth or they'd jab my leg. The folding Kent is far better. Assuming it doesn't get lost or accidentally stepped on, I'll keep it forever.
Next to the sink, I keep a nice aluminum comb I got a number of years back at the Gap. I don't know if you can still get them, but I love it. The aluminum comb just needs cleaning a few times a year. No doubt it'll outlast me.
Next to the sink, I keep a nice aluminum comb I got a number of years back at the Gap. I don't know if you can still get them, but I love it. The aluminum comb just needs cleaning a few times a year. No doubt it'll outlast me.
OK, the two that I have are:
For my regular home use: the Kent 5T (a coarse/fine straight comb that's about 6.5 in. overall length X 1.125 in. wide)
In my gym bag: the Kent F3T (a slightly tapered all fine-tooth comb that's only slightly smaller than the 5T: 6.25 in. long x approximately .75 in. wide)
My hair is very fine (almost baby-fine), and my thinking was that an all fine-toothed comb would work well, but I actually prefer the heft and feel of the 5T overall even though I never use the coarse toothed side.
I have an Ace model 64336 mock tortoise comb that I have had for years. No scraping or snagging and they can be purchased for under $5 at various locations.
Link to comb at Amazon
Link to comb at Amazon
Glad I ran across this thread. My cheap plastic combs start loosing their teeth after a month or two and I didn't realize what other options were out there.
Get a messier hairstyle, and all you have to do is run your fingers through your hair first thing in the a.m.
Or be follicle challenged
I have several Kent handsaw combs for my wife, kids and myself. I won't go back to typical drugstore combs ever. They were a revelation - wonderful to use.
+1! Shaved down to a #2....no more worry on comb, or hair products!
Um, a brush?
I've got a Mason Pearson comb that I've had for several years. Best money I've spent on my hair.
I found a Scunci "Firm and Flexible" basic black pocket comb that is pretty nice, and has all it's teeth yet! It's a nice size as well. It came 2 to a pack. I think it was at Meijer and was pretty inexpensive too.
I've used this Kent comb for years.
I've always loved combs, and occasionally buy one. Ah, but wavy hair doesn't usually notice a comb is present. 
Just shave it down and you need not worry about combing it.
As far as I can recollect I've not combed my hair in about 10 years. Once it gets long enough to comb it comes off. Admittedly I started shaving it down for my job but now I just like it naturally short. And it's easier to keep clean too.
As far as I can recollect I've not combed my hair in about 10 years. Once it gets long enough to comb it comes off. Admittedly I started shaving it down for my job but now I just like it naturally short. And it's easier to keep clean too.
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