Thread: The Synthetic Brush Shootout

Originally Posted by 400E

Yesterday ordered this brush from Ottawa (via Easy). Really looking forward to it.

Steve,
I have that brush and it's one of the sweetest synthetics I've used. Just lovely.

Originally Posted by Obie

Steve,
I have that brush and it's one of the sweetest synthetics I've used. Just lovely.

Great to hear, Obie! Thanks for the affirmation.

Now I need to order some new soap or cream or croap to try it out on. If only we had a really comprehensive thread on top-notch soaps I could refer to

I believe the brush is one sold by APShaveCo with one of their Tuxedo knots. If I'm right then you're in for a lovely shave once it arrives!

Originally Posted by GreenRipper

I believe the brush is one sold by APShaveCo with one of their Tuxedo knots. If I'm right then you're in for a lovely shave once it arrives!

That's right. I couldn't remember the name of the maker when I posted but knew they were from Ottawa. Am really looking forward to getting it.

Originally Posted by GreenRipper

I believe the brush is one sold by APShaveCo with one of their Tuxedo knots. If I'm right then you're in for a lovely shave once it arrives!

Right you are. It is the Tuxedo brush from APShaveCo. I have two more brushes coming from these fine folks: a 30mm Tuxedo and a 24mm Cashmere. Fine people to deal with, by the way.

Both my Tuxedo and Cashmere knots came from APShaveCo and then I sent them along to Chris at Brush Craft prior to having them mounted. As an aside, my latest brush was to be dropped in the mail today so it looks like I should have it sometime early next week. Let the anticipation begin!

After reading this wonderful review of synthetic brushes by Green Ripper, studying Obie's comments and speaking with him personally in Wisconsin, I am the proud owner of an AP shave brush with the 24mm tuxedo knot.
I have to say that it is one of the best lathering and feeling knots that I have ever used. I am so impressed with it that I have just ordered three more 24mm tuxedo knots and will start replacing older, well worn knots with them.
Obie said in Wisconsin at Dave's that he switched his brushes to almost all synthetic...
Now I know why.
Thanks Obie and Green Ripper for the great information.

Pete <:-}

My experience with my APShave Tuxedo is not as positive. It is a really beautiful brush, but I haven't been able to get it to lather right for me. Since it doesn't absorb water, even if I just wet the bristles, it seems to spray water all over the place when I lather.

I'm sure my technique is wrong, but I have tried keeping it pretty dry to pick up the soap, then adding just a few drops of water to the soap (i.e. not the bristles themselves) but for whatever reason, still get water splashed around.