Thread: Difference

I'm still very much a beginner and I've been using a synthetic brush given to me by my girlfriend. I've been looking around for a new one as another option and I've read the differences between all of the different kinds of badger brushes.

That being said, will I notice a difference between a pure badger and a synthetic or should I shoot for something with a little more quality like a "best badger?" Even further, even if I would get a higher quality brush as a beginner is it really something immediately noticeable or does the preference come with experience?

Thanks guys! Not sure if this should be in the beginner section or not but I figured I might get a better response here.

Originally Posted by ats200

I'm still very much a beginner and I've been using a synthetic brush given to me by my girlfriend. I've been looking around for a new one as another option and I've read the differences between all of the different kinds of badger brushes.

That being said, will I notice a difference between a pure badger and a synthetic or should I shoot for something with a little more quality like a "best badger?" Even further, even if I would get a higher quality brush as a beginner is it really something immediately noticeable or does the preference come with experience?

Thanks guys! Not sure if this should be in the beginner section or not but I figured I might get a better response here.

When I was starting, I went from synthetic (small Body Shop brush) to an affordable best badger and there was a huge difference. I've since bought a few super badger knots for restored brushes, and there's a noticeable difference as to how they feel but nothing like the jump from synthetic to badger.

Thanks commiecat, exactly what I was wondering. I probably have the same brush you started out with, a pretty small body shop one with faux wood handles. I feel like even when it doesn't have much water it feels very "moppy."

Is that something I should expect? I'm not sure whether to make my next investment a nice norton 4/8 or a better brush.

I started out with a synthetic brush as well. I noticed a big difference when I got a vulfix best badger brush. After using that for around 6 months I decided it was time to upgrade. My next brush was a silvertip badger brush. It is a bit softer than my best badger, but the knot is way bigger. I like the bigger brush because it helps me build more lather and I like the size of it on my face. Experiment with a few different kinds if possible and find your preference. Also check the classifieds. My first silvertip brush I bough was on the classifieds when SRD was introducing Stephens woodworking brushes. I believe I picked it up for $60.

i started out with a $3 boar brush and used it for years before getting serious about wetshaving.. i "upgraded" to the bodyshop brush and found it nearly unusable.. i went back to the boar brush for a few months before going with a best badger.

Let your budget dictate. Otherwise you really have to experience the different critters and grades to see what you like. Some guys like the highest grades and some really like the lowest so there is no standard recommendation. Historically, Silvertip Badger is considered the top of the heap but that and 2 bucks will get you on the midtown bus.

Thanks for all of the advice. I think I'm going to jump for a Rooney super silvertip.

The price seems reasonable for the reputation and quality and I figure I might save money in the long run instead of going with one on a lower level and upgrading again in the future. (figures I go from getting a boar or pure badger to super silvertip; this hobby just keeps costing me money but I love it )