Thread: Burma Shave -- Test

I picked up a cake of this soap in a small town in Iowa while we were on our way to do a job in Nevada. I think it cost about $3, so it definitely qualifies as a cheap soap. Since I was testing the effects of a long absence on my blades and then testing the new JC custom, I stuck to my usual TGQ/Tryphon rotation. Tonight as I was shave-testing the Workman for a honing exchange, I decided to give it a whirl. Here are my impressions:
Scent -- Sweet, yet masculine. Understated. It's pleasant but it can't compare to the big guns.
Lather -- Easy to generate with minimal water. It stays consistent even as it dries out, kind of like the dry foam of C&E soaps. This can be tricky if you're a beginner and can't complete a pass in a reasonable amount of time. The similarities end with a very important point: Unlike C&E soaps, it's not PRONE to drying out, so you don't have to reapply lather or rush through a pass.
Hydration -- It hydrated the stubble adequately and made the shave fairly easy. Superb performer in that department.
Glide -- The blade went over my face with no impediment. This one's definitely slick.
Cushioning -- Even though the blade was f.f.t.h., the aftershave burn was a bit more than it should have been. I guess you can't have evertything.
Overall -- I've tested several soaps in the "cheap" category, including VdH, Williams and Wilkinson. Burma's the best of the lot. It should be your #1 option if you're on a budget.

Really! I tend to get a more comfortable shave with Williams than Burma. Of course I used Williams exclusively for about ten years, before discovering the higher end soaps, so you might say I get a good lather with it.

Williams is ok when you use lots of water and don't expect a Santa Clause beard lather. It also provides better cushioning, but overall, I'd say that Burma still has a distinct edge over it (pun not intended lol)

I think its that cushioning effect that I really look for. So I see your point. In any case it doesn't quite compare to colleens or sues stuff but its a whole lot better than a kick in the teeth.

Originally Posted by Wildtim

I think its that cushioning effect that I really look for. So I see your point. In any case it doesn't quite compare to colleens or sues stuff but its a whole lot better than a kick in the teeth.

Hell most things are better than a kick in the teeth. However I agree it doesn't hold up by comparison to Sue or Colleen's soaps. Those are really super products...

I just found out on SMF that it was discontinued. Had I known, I would have picked up a few more, as if I need any more soaps lol. After reviewing my credit card records, I realized that I didn't buy it in Iowa, but in Nebraska. For those of you living there or passing through there, here's the store info: SUNMART #768 GRAND ISLAND NE. I guess Sunmart is a chain, so if you have one near by, chances are they still have a few in stock.

I think I got mine for less than $3. More like 1.99... You got ripped off, Ilija

I agree scent isn't bad, and performance is adequate

Rich +1 on the kick in the teeth lol

Cheers
Ivo

Burma Shave? Isn't that now known as Mayanmar Shave?

Originally Posted by Kyle76

Burma Shave? Isn't that now known as Mayanmar Shave?

I like it!

Jordan