There is very little that is absolutely required to shave. A razor, some soap, a rudimentary brush. As far as scuttles go if I'm going to use one I want one that serves it's purpose for me. I don't want to have to shave fast because the lather will get cold. If that's the case why am I using the damn thing. I haven't used them all so I can't comment but I have had the Georgetown v3 and v5 and it just doesn't do the job for me. I think the Oskar scuttle is the most perfect that I've seen. My opinion of course.