I am still using my Van Der Hagen Boar starter brush, and I was looking into a minor upgrade. I have had a hard time with my soap lathers using this brush. I think I've actually been squeezing too much water out of it, but I'm still experimenting there. I've read a lot of the forums and there are a lot of differing opinions on good budget brushes. For the most part, everyone recommends an Omega boar over a cheap badger. Does that still hold true if I already have the Van Der Hagen boar? Of the options given, which should be my next budget brush to try?
None of the above. I have and recommend a Omega Boar 10066. $12 bucks shipped. Super brush. Badger, Whipped Dog.
Omega 10049 is the best of the lot you have provided in my opinion. You have to give it time to break in properly so keep that in mind. They keep getting better with time and use.
Any of the Omega boars would be great choices. I would recommend looking at the size of your VDH brush and deciding if you wanted a smaller or larger brush, then pick a corresponding Omega. I love my 10049.
I have a VDH boar and it's good for creams. However, my 10049's size is great leverage for loading soaps. If you use soaps, get the 49.
I have a 49, and I like it very much. But for me, it's something of a special use brush. It's shorter loft and slightly smaller knot make it a bit "scrubbier" than the 98, so I use it when I've not been able to shave for a few days. It really shines at working the lather into a tough beard. If I'm able to shave every day, then the 98 is just right. I think you'll really enjoy either brush, and you will be well pleased with your purchase. Happy Shaving!
Omega 10098 I say! Same knot as the 10049, but longer handle really adds to it somehow. I consider them both my lather cannons, but the longer handle gives a little extra leverage when whipping the lather up and applying to face. It is just more fun to use. C'mon... most brushes these days use a variation on a stubby, barrel-shaped handle. You owe it to yourself to try at least one long handled brush. May as well start with 10098. AND... These are not the droids you're looking for.
I'll second RaZorBurn123's 10066 - very, very nice brush that. The 10049 is a BIG brush, and if that's something you like or think you'd like to try then it's another great choice. And the Semogue 1460 is a great lil' brush as well, and a helluva bargain to boot IMO. It's distinct enough in both feel & function from the Omegas that I think it's easily worth a recommendation as well. So there you go...your basic political answer.
If you care to throw a few extra dollars on, I like the Semogue 1305. Looks nice, feels nice and lathers nice! Runs about $19 on Amazon, free shipping but not prime eligible.
My favorite brush isn't listed, however it's not a $15 upgrade.. My favorite is the bestshave.net #6 horse hair brush(approx. $5 shipped). For me it works well with everything(soaps, sticks, creams).. After trying all the types(badger, boar & synthetic) since trying the #6 I haven't used another brush in years..
+4/5 for an Omega 10066. The knot is a bit smaller, but not small by any means: 24mmx54mm. I used mine yesterday. $9 to $12 or so....
Pure badgers can be prickly so in that price range, I'd go with a boar. The 10049 is a solid choice and that's what I voted for from your choices but there are lots of good ones
I prefer the 10083 It can be had for $11 + shipping and is slightly smaller than the 48/49s from Omega, AWESOME brush.
Everyone will have a preference but it's hard to argue about the 48 or 49. The knot in the 20107 is another personally favorite.
I hear people say the Omega boars get better with age. Mine was awesome right out of the box, so I can't wait to find out what better feels like with that thing. Great brush. The 10066 looks like a great option, too. Classic handle shape.
