Yeah you can clearly see in the my photo that I haven’t had a chance to use the Berkeley yet. It’s gonna take some effort to cover my head. That Duke 3 is a real pleasure for day-to-day though. I go from Chubby 1 to Duke 3 often.
The Berkeley has one of my favorite grip profiles of any of the brushes Simpson makes. But then again, every Simpson I have is ergonomic in my hand.
This thread inspired me to pull out my Simpson brushes for a family photo. I started with a Duke 3 in best badger. It was the first nice shaving brush I ever purchased. My Polo 10 was once owned by a famous opera tenor.
I don't have one, so I can't give an opinion on it. Just ordered a display stand for my brushes so that I can do the group photo.
The M7 is one of the most ergonomic handles in my den. The Manchurian Badger is a great combination of soft and scrubby. The hair is not treated, so perhaps the tips won't be as "glamorous" as some, but I am not a fan of "gelled" or "bleached" knots, even though I do own a few.
Have you heard of a M13? There’s apparently one listed on eBay but I haven’t been able to find any written documentation of such a brush?
I saw that ...... it wasn't uncommon for Simpson to make "one offs" or "short runs". That's what makes them special.
Took a look at it as well. I don't trust that knot. 1) Looks incredible floppy and 2) no assurance it's not a shedder. Nice handle, but I am (k)not into "reknots".
Thanks for your reply! It brought up questions as I looked at it. I really appreciate the ability to bring it to the forum for second (and more) opinions.
New acquisition arrived in the mail today. Simpson Keyhole 4. I’m excited to take it on its maiden voyage tomorrow! I love the feel of the handle. It might be the most comfortable I’ve experienced so far. We’ll have to to see once it’s in action.
Agreed! I LOVE the grip on my KH4, for being more of a novelty themed design is is so agronomical and practical.
I really enjoyed using the Keyhole 4 handle. Lathering in the bowl didn’t tire out my wrist. I would probably appreciate a little more backbone to the knot, but it’s still a very enjoyable shave. Every Simpson has its own unique personality. You love ‘em like your kids haha.
I still haven't used mine yet, so you are saying that it lacks backbone or density compared to other Simpsons?
Well you may have to school me on the terminology but compared to the Polo, Duke 3 and all the Chubbies, this brush felt floppier and splayed quite a bit. It just didn’t have the stiffness against my skin that the other brushes have. I assume it’s due to less density and a higher loft. I think I prefer a denser brush that pushes back more if that makes sense. Try it out and let me know what you think.
So I used the Polo 10 Best tonight for my daily shave, and damn that’s a lovely brush! It was a champ in the bowl and felt amazing on my head. It delivered effortless coverage, and felt balanced and sure in my hand. The knot is very full and soft with good body. It’s very proficient at delivering me a luxurious and satisfying experience. I’m so glad I pulled the trigger on it!