I received a $100 gift certificate to West Coast Shaving. I'm wondering what I should get. Any suggestions? I have a Vie-Long horsehair, a TGN synthetic and an Omega boar. Should I get a badger? If so, what would you suggest?
Lucky you. I have many Badger Brushes and I'm very happy with most of them. Lucky Tiger A/S and face tonic is also a good product, however, I'm sure you already have it. It's such a personal thing this shave our way. As far as Badge brushes go, Silvertip, Finest have served me well. YMMV.
Sounds like you want a new badger brush. How about this: http://www.westcoastshaving.com/Semogue-730HD-Silvertip-Badger-Shaving-Brush_p_1515.html
Nice gift! Ask yourself this question, do you want to spend it on just one really expensive item or stretch it out and get many items? Just a thought! If that's not the thought process then i suggest a Merkur Adjustable if you don't already have one (futur or progress).
Nice suggestions fellas. I'm a bit torn about this. On one hand - many people highly recommend silvertip badgers. On the other hand - synthetics are pretty good now days and the thought of using a non-animal product is pretty appealing. I'm considering an Omega Hi-Synthetic, Ogallala Bay Rum cologne and aftershaves. That only gets me up to about $60. I've never had this problem of being able to spend plenty of money, but I'm pretty satisfied with my den right now.
I'm not a 'big ticket' brush guy—and for me, anything over $50-60 for a brush gets into that realm—So I'm probably not much help. However, from WCS, I'd consider... St. Johns Bay Rum After Shave Balm ($41.99) See it Here Merkur Futur Safety Razor Polished Chrome ($89.99) See it here
troy before you get a synthetic, I would consult gary's chart. he listed the manufactures, what generation, and their characteristics. I have two third gens, and one four, he is spot on, with his descriptions of mine.
I'm actually considering a Simpson's Berkeley Best Badger from WCS for about $51.00. I've heard great things about that brush and it would leave you almost half for later or other stuff. Plus you could let me know how the brush is........
The commodore isn't bad. Maybe an X3. Then buy some blades or soap with the change. http://www.westcoastshaving.com/Simpson-Commodore-X3-Best-Badger-Shaving-Brush-X3B_p_768.html
If you fancy a brush, and don't already have a silvertip, I'd say it's a perfect opportunity to spend a few bob and pick one up. I paid £59 for mine. No where near what you can pay, but enough to buy a decent unit. I don't use it every day, but when it gets a run out, you can feel the quality. It's a wonderful experience a good silvertip. I think everyone should have one.
To splurge/indulge yourself w/ some variety: - One bottle of Myrsol, $32 - One Kent Infinity Synthetic brush, $25 - One Tabula Rasa shaving soaps, $31 - A hundred pack of Personna blades $12 Done. Drops mic.