#1
Hi,
I am fairly new to the hobby, and new to the site.  I have a badger and a few synths, but I am looking for suggestions for my first boar brush.  I would like something that will last and I don't mind spending more for quality and a nice handle.
Thanks!
#2
Can you tell us something about what you are looking for in a boar bristle brush and why you want one?

Is there something about your badger or synthetic brushes that you do not like?

There is a vast range of size and face feel in boar brushes so some information would be helpful.
#3

Just Here for the Shaves
Williamsburg, KY
Just speaking in generalities for a short answer. Of the ones I've tried, I've been most happy with my Semogue Owners Club Boars.

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This post by Dave in KY mentions views and opinions expressed and makes it known that they are "those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of DFS or any other member, agency, organization, employer or company."  Big Grin
#4
I'd say pick up an Omega on Amazon. It takes a dozen shaves or more to break in a boar but after the break-in I love a boar brush. Get it wet and build a lather. No real need for soaking. JMO.
From the shade of the big mountain, Pike's Peak.
Jerry...
#5

Member
Wisconsin
My humble suggestion would be a Semogue 1305.  
It’s inexpensive and a good starter brush.  
Probably around $20…
You will need to learn how to break in a boar brush, but they are great when the tips split a bit and they become soft.
Have fun!

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Deus Ex Machina
#6
(This post was last modified: 02-21-2024, 03:57 PM by ewk.)
Omega, Zenith, and Semogue are the best known makers of boar brushes. The really good news is that they are less expensive. My Omega 49 is a large brush that is still the best $10 I have spent on shaving. I have grown fond of Zenith. Bleached bristles are softer out of the box. In the US, you can get Zenith brushes with great handles from https://www.thegentleshave.com/. The RazoRock blondie is made by Zenith.

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#7
(02-21-2024, 02:26 PM)Gasman Wrote: I'd say pick up an Omega on Amazon. It takes a dozen shaves or more to break in a boar but after the break-in I love a boar brush. Get it wet and build a lather. No real need for soaking. JMO.

I find that if I do not pre-soak my boars I get broken bristles and bristles that fall out.
#8
I do like my badger and synthetic brushes, but just wanted to see if I would like a boar.  I like a large knot, maybe a little exfoliating than my badger and I bowl lather.
#9

Member
New York
(This post was last modified: 02-22-2024, 03:38 AM by mrdoug.)
(02-22-2024, 03:21 AM)SandmanCT Wrote: I do like my badger and synthetic brushes, but just wanted to see if I would like a boar.  I like a large knot, maybe a little exfoliating than my badger and I bowl lather.
After seeing ewk use one in DecemBoar, I picked up a 26mm Zenith with a plastic handle. It's densely packed and feels like a good sized knot. I've been working to break it in, before i use it (as I like soft soft brushes). It seems like it'll be a good brush. I only paid ~$15 for it, so it was a cheap investment to try. It might be a good place to start.

https://www.thegentleshave.com/products/...-colors-b3

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#10
(02-22-2024, 03:21 AM)SandmanCT Wrote: I do like my badger and synthetic brushes, but just wanted to see if I would like a boar.  I like a large knot, maybe a little exfoliating than my badger and I bowl lather.

Hmmmm.......I'm not sure that bowl latherers get much benefit from the extra backbone of a boar brush. Most of us who love boars are face latherers and love a good scrub . For a bowl latherer, the main benefit of a boar brush would be easier loading of hard triple milled soaps. An inexpensive Omega would be good at that. Look at a 10065. They are cheap, and very stiff. They will never have tips as soft as a Semougue, but if you are not face lathering I don't think it really matters much.


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