I've never had a problem lathering MWF and I have always just kept it dry (so much so that it cracks). It isn't my favorite or anything but it certainly will always have a place in my den.
I read a description similar to this one before starting with my first MWF puck. It worked just as you've described and I also load for no more than 10-15 seconds. This has consistently produced volumes of face-lathered goodness and I do like the subtle, soapy scent. I just tried an artisan soap to get a different perspective on shaving soaps and I really liked the wonderful fragrance but I missed the slickness and post-shave feel I got from MWF. I'll be going back to the Fat for a solid month while I work on my newbie technique!
They ought to add a disclaimer to the soap puck box, "30% more FREE!*" *just add water. For not being a triple milled soap, MWF lasts forever, and it's performance to price ratio can't be beat. The post shave face feel is better than most other soaps...unless you're allergic to lanolin. Edit: I've now read several different websites that claim MWF is triple-milled, though MWF's own site does not make such claims.
It's adding water to soap, not rocket science. Besides, this technique has pretty much become canon for MWF users over the last three years. Even if they don't do it, they have at least heard of it. Badger & Blade might be the only shaving forum where this technique is uncommon, something I ascribe to the large number of British "if it isn't broke, don't fix it" blokes who frequent B&B.
I've never had a problem loading MWF as it is. I wonder if the puck would last longer if its hydrated because it expands
This being my first puck of MWF I can't comment on the performance. I'm going to try it out tomorrow after it finishes soaking. I do however find the scent quite clean and rather pleasing. I'm looking forward to trying it out.
I think any tradeoff due to the larger puck size will be negated due to the increased softness of the puck. That being said, a puck, if used daily, will last 9 months to a year. (Depending on your loading habits, of course). For people wanting to get this soap, this might be the lowest price with the dish. I don't know how much shipping is though. http://www.carbolicsoap.com/mitchell-s-shaving-dish
Love the FAT! Not sure where I read about pre-soaking, probably from @PLANofMAN but specifically remember reading soak it until it fills the ceramic bowl. (Too tired to search my old posts to verify.). Have never had an issue with it and it will always be in my den. Runs neck and neck with MdC as my #1....
I asked. He said it's not that hot out. It could have be me, or someone else entirely. Lots of people recommend soaking the fat for at least ten minutes pre-shave...I just took that concept a little farther than most.
Very interesting article, thank you. I have no issues lathering MWF. Never having pre-soaked the puck, I simply fill my ceramic bowl with warm water and soak while I shower. I would think that a fully "hydrated" puck would then need to take on less water in the lathering process. Is my hypothesis correct?
Correct. In fact, for face lathering I usually squeeze most of the water out of the (boar) brush, and the small amount of moisture left in the brush plus the water I splash on my face before building the lather is generally sufficient. Badger I don't squeeze, but I do shake it out.
That's an education, thanks, I can see I'm going to have to try some of this soap - put it on the list. I've got to work on my lathering technique first though, still not satisfied with the results. Regards, Chris
