Two new Tuxedo Synthetic re-knots

[petercp4e]

Just got done re-knotting these two old brush handles with AP Shave Synthetic Tuxedo knots.
These knots really perform great. They are 24mm. from AP Shave in Ottawa, Canada. They have good backbone, nice soft tips and lather like a machine. I spoke with Obie in Wisconsin at Rolodave's meet and he told me that he has switched almost all of his brushes to synthetic. After using an AP brush with this knot I'm starting to realize why.

Pete <:-}

[markbignosekelly]

Very pretty brushes Pete. Ive always liked the hybrid/shockwood and the symmetrical shape of the bulb makes for a very nice look. I will have to look into the synthetic Tuxedos if you and Obie are giving them the thumbs up.

[BobH]

Those do look good. What loft did you set them at?

Bob

[petercp4e]

Bob, I didn't check the loft. Just marine epoxied them in at the original depth.

Pete <:-}

[BobH]

OK, thanks

Bob

[MichaelPz]

Really nice looking brushes. Obie's comment about switching to synthetics really hit home.

I have well over 100 nice badger brushes that I've used for years and have come to enjoy. After trying the Plissofts, and then the Tuxedos, I have to say that for ease of use and making lather out of any kind of soap, cream, croap, whatever, the synthetics are easier to use.

Are they more luxurious? No, in that you don't get that 'wall of badger' feeling as you do with a large diameter brush like a Chubby 3. However, a 30mm Tux knot can give a very similar sensation.

Recently I tried a new soap that's gotten a lot of buzz and used it with one of my favorite badger brushes. First use, I overloaded and the brush hogged the lather. Second use, I underloaded a bit, and it took more work. Then for the next use, I pulled out one of the Tuxedo brushes, and with virtually no effort got the perfect lather for a straight razor shave, and got to understand why some were so excited about the product.

I doubt I'll ever give up the badgers, but the more I allow myself to use the synthetics (if I'm being honest, it feels like cheating!) the more I enjoy the ease of use.