It depends on the model. There were many manufacturers of brushes; a few examples are ... Ever Ready Made Rite Rubberset Century Erskine Fuller Hardright Certifyd Opal Strongset Klenzo This is not a complete list and if you would like more detail PM me. Even in good manufacturers there and duds but we can give you pointers to good ones.
I only have two vintage brushes with their original boar knots left, Rex Barbershop style and Fuller. Everything else either had the knots replaced or sold. But I gotta say, the Rex has an awesome knot, large and soft.
I'm not being cheeky when I say start here: http://oldschoolshavingbrushes.com/ Then here: http://oldschoolshavingbrushes.com/other_manufacturers.html Star is a notable omission
Thank you David for showing @Swampfox that site , I was unfortunately at work and unable at the time to do that.
the only real nos vintage brush i have that is usable is my canadian rubberset..works nice but no real greatness over a modern one..
If you find a handle you really like, whether it’s because of the design or size, remember that it can be re-knotted. The Star has been re-knotted with a 16mm Finest, as has the Ever Ready 1612. Behind that is a Century 4 that has a 24mm Best. Next to it is a Hess reknotted with a Mixed knot from Maggard Razors
Thanks. The Star was my first brush reknot and the ER will be my latest. I have sent it to someone to look at so they can make one.
There are tooooooons of brushes, different sizes, different materials, different colors and different types of hairs. It’s really a preference to the individual. Here are a few I have sitting in a box.
Lol I have no more brushes coming in and I honestly don’t by brushes they just so happen to come in the lots I buy for the razors.