So I have just purchased one of these brushes and the seller is including BB's to weight down the handle, if I want. My question: Have any of you done something similar? Do you prefer the hollow handle or a weighted handle? I appreciate your input.
I do not have a Rubberset 400 but I do have a couple of brushes with weighted handles and I really like the additional mass.
I don't have a 400 either, but I have never added weight to a vintage brush, I prefer to leave the weight as original.
Seems to be the current fad to make razors and brushes weigh as much as possible, I never thought much of fads.
I have a clone with a solid handle, and I never use it because I don't much like the weight. If you don't use epoxy, at least not at first, then you can try both ways.
BB are not required. The design of the handle provides excellent grip and feel. I also have a solid handle replica. The added weight does not provide any advantage.
Fill it part of the way with the BBs (or whatever) and buy a tapered cork that you can jam into the handle. If the cork fits tightly enough, it should stay put for at least a shave or two. I get corks at my local Ace Hardware store. A rubber stopper would also work.
I like my weighted brushes. I've had a customized rubberset (non400) feels very luxurious weighted. I didn't fill my 400, but I wouldn't be opposed to the idea. Other than I've got others in the 400 style. It's plastic, but feels a bit heavier (razorock 400). What they said about trying both is easy enough project. Then you can tell us how you feel about weighting it.
I also do not have a rubberset, but have increased the weight on a couple of vintage brushes I restored. One brush is now too heavy and does not feel balanced, but the other is just right and an improvement in my opinion. Unfortunately, using epoxy and pennies like I did makes it impossible to reverse. Try it without the weight and then with the added weight to help you decide. If you decide you want it lighter or heavier, then you can make adjustments before making it permanent.
I did, it was a stupid question. Of course, the "real ones" were hollow. You answered it before I could delete it.
It makes the most sense to try it first without added weight. Then, as an experiment, add weight without making it permanent. Thank you for all of your good advice.
I have all the Rubberset brushes in this series. I have not added weight to the handles. IMO extra weight is not needed.