Thread: What are you working on?

Originally Posted by outback

Are u soaking it, beforehand? I always soak mine in a cup of hot tap water, while I'm showering. Just the first third of the
knot.

Took the words right out of my mouth Mike. I have some that are stiffer than others and those I soak first but about the firat half.

Originally Posted by outback

Are u soaking it, beforehand? I always soak mine in a cup of hot tap water, while I'm showering. Just the first third of the
knot.

I soak every brush briefly before using. Usually rinse under hot water to wet thoroughly then fill the mug that contains my soap and set the brush in it for about a minute.
I found that soaking in the mug with the soap makes the badger retain more water. Surface tension of the water I suppose - don't really know but when I'm ready to use it and hold it upside down to drain off the extra water I get a much longer steady stream of water than if it were in hot water alone without soap.
Does boar need to soak for a significantly longer time?
During some of the break in when soaking in cold water for 24hrs the bristles are certainly more saturated (as they should be) but when held up to drain off excess they still do not hold as much as a badger with a quick soak.
Its soaking again for another break in and toweling tomorrow but when it dries I will give it a go with a longer hot water soak before shaving and see if that helps.

Originally Posted by stoneandstrop

Does boar need to soak for a significantly longer time?

Again, preference is key. You don't have to soak any of them but if you want it softer then yes. I've only used one or two badger brushes but even without soaking they were too soft for my taste.

Stiffer brush, longer to soften. Think about how long a piece of horn has to soak to get soft compared to your fingernails.

Originally Posted by PaulFLUS

So here's one link to the retailer I buy them from. There are other retailers and other brands but these are good, long and they're cheap at Publix. I think I liked the ones from Sally better but these are longer.

The Manufacturer doesnt have mych information on their site. But the product code is 4 way buffer #20419

https://www.publix.com/pd/diamond-co...RIO-PCI-527546

Have you ever tried these.My wife loves them and they last well.

Also I know you are into Arks.

https://www.longcreekherbs.com/produ...l-files/?gQT=1

Tim

Originally Posted by PaulFLUS

Again, preference is key. You don't have to soak any of them but if you want it softer then yes. I've only used one or two badger brushes but even without soaking they were too soft for my taste.

Stiffer brush, longer to soften. Think about how long a piece of horn has to soak to get soft compared to your fingernails.

Well this is the first time I have heard about soaking longer so will definitely try that!
Alot of people don't soak either. I just do a quick one, not even a minute for badger.
Funny it feels better dry on the face than wet though. Damp fells fantastic, for Boar, lol.