How is it I've never tried the Arko stick? I remember trying a tube or two of Arko Commando early in my straight shaving journey and liking it, but have never dropped the $2 or whatever the stick costs. I even remember the Williams Wars from circa 2011 or so lol!
In that realm, there are still some cheaper tubed creams I like and buy occasionally: Palmolive Moisturizing Deluxe and Godrej Menthol Mist are two old favorites, both Indian if memory serves.