Originally Posted by
azgabe
Wow!!!! You just saved yourself a whole lot of $$$$$$$$$$$$$
Boar, badger, horse or synthetics are all a matter of personal preference. I prefer badger and then boar. I don't like synthetic or horse hair brushes enough to own one. All things considered, there is no brush more luxurious than a 3 band silvertip badger.
I am new to straights but have tried more brushes than I care to admit (DE shaver). It is rumored that AOS Silvertips are made by Shavemac. I have owned an AOS and Shavemac silvertips and can personally tell you that the rumors are probably true. Shavemacs are some of the best brushes at ANY price point. You can spend more but the knots won't get better.
I would recommend a Shavemac brush with out any reservations. However I would not pay AOS prices for one. Buying a new 26mm Silvertip directly from Shavemac will run you about $135 shipped to the US. You can go onto their website and pick a handle, material, color, knot size etc.. You can basically get a semi custom brush for that $135. That's not a bed deal at all.
While you are at it, pass on the AOS straight. I have one and its great, but its not worth $300. I believe they are made by Dovo and can be purchased for about $150ish.