Walgreens has the VDH boar brush here for 7.99, it was my first brush because of budget and it is a great starter brush for the price. Sheds some at first, but not too much any more. I realy like the way the handle feels in my hand so much, next week I'm planning to buying another one and re-knoting it with TGN silvertip.
Check different Walgreens. I did an inventory check online. Different stores carry different VDH gear. Although I'm debating now on reknotting my badger for a Silvertip now that I know there is even better out there.
Since there seems to be some confusion regarding Tweezerman and VdH, they have both badger and boar models. The VdH badger is a fairly recent model (it's only been around for a year or two) and has replaced most of the stand alone boar models in stores. Here is a link to the Tweezerman badger brush: http://www.amazon.com/dp/B000G647Y8/?tag=thshde-20
Omega makes good brushes. If I remember correctly, they are an Italian manufacturer. Semogue brushes are made in Portugal and are also excellent brushes. If you do decide on a boar brush, I recommend that you look no further than Omega and Semogue. http://www.amazon.com/dp/B004OJM9XE/?tag=thshde-20 http://www.amazon.com/dp/B006EMKX00/?tag=thshde-20 I have this model: http://www.amazon.com/dp/B006FAIPDI/?tag=thshde-20 Out of all the brushes I own, it's my favorite. I use it for at least half of my shaves during the week. It is also the only boar brush I (currently) own. The paint on mine is starting to crack and peel.
Don't get us started on the Omega vs Semogue argument. A lot of forum memebers don't realize the Omega brushes are much better.
I have a Walgreens like 4 blocks away, I might go check out what they have later... Today be football day!
Any of these brushes would suit your needs. Only the Whipped Dog is over $30. (Left to right) VDH boar brush ($6); Semogue 830 boar ($24), Omega 48 boar ($16), Whipped Dog Silvertip badger ($38) Each has good attributes and some limitations.
Jeez Louise, those Whipped Dog silvertip brushes are dirt cheap! How do they compare to other silvertip brushes?