Alright folks, I've decided I like face lathering and want to look into some new soaps and I've been told that boar hair brushes are better for loading and face lathering. I've narrowed down my options to the Semogue 1305 and the SOC. Anyone have both? What do you like better and why?
Sorry, but I'm going to stir the pot here. What makes a boar brush better than a badger brush or a horse brush or a synthetic brush? What makes a 28mm brush better than a 22mm brush? There is no such thing as a "soap" brush, or a "cream" brush, or a "face lathering" brush, or a "bowl lathering" brush, only personal preference brushes. I have several of each and they all work great - once you learn how to use 'em. That said, I would say get the one you like the looks of. Semogue makes great brushes so which ever one you get you're bound to enjoy. Get the "ugly" one first and you won't be happy until buy the other one, always wishing and wondering if the other one is as good or better than the "ugly" one.
Maybe I should have stated it differently: I've been told the stiffness of the boar is easier to load than say a soft silvertip. I guess I'm just interested in trying a good quality boar brush. I have a VDH "Premium" and an Escali pure badger with a Liojuny Silvertip on the way from China and thought if try something different. I've seen these two brushes compared a lot.
I have both the 1305 and the SOC. Concerning the hair in the knot, they are like comparing apples to oranges. Different loft, hair, etc. You can go to vintagescent.com to see pictures, descriptions, and prices. With this said, both, to me, are great for face or bowl lathering. I reckon it boils down to your choice. The 1305 is running $15.57 plus shipping; the SOC is $26.74 plus shipping. I think shipping will run ~$3.50. However, I recommend you also consider the 1438. This is a little shorter brush, nice backbone, and good hair. I use the 1438 for face lathering regularly and love the feel on my face. The shorter knot and fairly stiff backbone work for me. I firmly believe that dollar-for-dollar the Semogues are the best brush on the market. Plus I am kinda in to the retro wooden handles.
I don't have a 1305 however my Owners Club is a pure joy to lather with, face or bowl. The handles are comfortable on both though (Identical I believe) I just prefer the undyed boar bristle look as well as the natural wood handle.
The SOC is a beautiful brush, but I am a budget guy. I have the 1305, and I cannot imagine a boar brush any better. If anyone wants to send me an SOC, I will take it, but I am completely satisfied with my 1305.
