*PICS* The difference between Pure, Best and Silvertip Badger.....

[joel]

Gents,
Quite often I am asked "What's the best Shaving brush?" - "Which brush should I get for XYZ dollars?" - "What would you buy between X and Y?" and so on and so forth. I hope to in this pictorial show some of you fellas the difference between the different hair grades, and hopefully help some of you gents decide WHAT CHARACTERISTICS you wish to have in a brush/hair grade.

Too often gents are caught up in this whole "What is the best/most expensive" bit - when in reality..... the most expensive badger hair is NOT expensive because it is the best.... it is expensive because it is RARE and as a result, expensive.

Method - All of the brushes are from the same manufacture, in new, unused condition so as to eliminate as many variables as possible. Each shaving brush was used under similar circumstances, with the exact same cake of Saint Charles Shave Almond shaving soap.

Three Unused Shaving Brushes.... (similar knot size)
http://www.badgerandblade.com/gallery/displayimage.php?imageid=2155

Same three brushes in "bloom".... (similar knot size)
http://www.badgerandblade.com/gallery/displayimage.php?imageid=2236
PURE -
This is the least expensive form of badger hair and is quite common. The head as you can see is actually trimmed to shape, so it is a little "scratchy" on ones face. Due to its specific qualities, although it holds a fair amount of water - it holds less water then best/silvertip. Although it is packed loosely, it is not "floppy" and has a nice spring to it.

Trimmed brush head as new...
http://www.badgerandblade.com/gallery/displayimage.php?imageid=2237

Loose Pack....
http://www.badgerandblade.com/gallery/displayimage.php?imageid=2238

http://www.badgerandblade.com/gallery/displayimage.php?imageid=2239

Soak...
http://www.badgerandblade.com/gallery/displayimage.php?imageid=2240

Shake.
http://www.badgerandblade.com/gallery/displayimage.php?imageid=2241

Size of whetted head in relation to cake of soap...
http://www.badgerandblade.com/gallery/displayimage.php?imageid=2242

Couple Turns...
http://www.badgerandblade.com/gallery/displayimage.php?imageid=2243

Lather beginning to build...
http://www.badgerandblade.com/gallery/displayimage.php?imageid=2244

http://www.badgerandblade.com/gallery/displayimage.php?imageid=2245

http://www.badgerandblade.com/gallery/displayimage.php?imageid=2246

http://www.badgerandblade.com/gallery/displayimage.php?imageid=2247

Ready to rub on face....
http://www.badgerandblade.com/gallery/displayimage.php?imageid=2248

Lathered up...
http://www.badgerandblade.com/gallery/displayimage.php?imageid=2249
http://www.badgerandblade.com/gallery/displayimage.php?imageid=2250

Post "wipe"
http://www.badgerandblade.com/gallery/displayimage.php?imageid=2160

After 3 Passes...
http://www.badgerandblade.com/gallery/displayimage.php?imageid=2251

Bloom...
http://www.badgerandblade.com/gallery/displayimage.php?imageid=2252

http://www.badgerandblade.com/gallery/displayimage.php?imageid=2253


BEST BADGER -
Best badger hair is essentially a refined version of "pure" it tends to have more of a banded pattern, than a solid black color, and it tends to be untrimmed, and as a result is softer on ones face. Best badger will have the SAME characteristics as far as "feel" as the incredibly expensive "High White Mountain" - "Manchurian" etc, as it will be firm on ones skin, yet supple enough to be luxurious. The bristle pack will often be denser than that of best badger, and as a result the brush will retain more water. The hair will have less of a snappyness (inclination to bend) as best badger, and as a result a highly efficacious scrubbing action can be performed on your shaving soap, as well as face. The ONLY leg up the elustrious (and expensive) "rare" hairs have on this brush is/are their water holding abilities, which admittedly are superior - however I can earnestly say - this inexpensive little $35 Edwin Jagger may be my favorite shaving brush... period. It really works like the dickens (see pictures below) and holds the perfect amount of water - not to much, not to little... somewhat ironic that the "mid-level" tends to have the desirabilities from both spectrums. As far as I am concerned - to hell with "high, euro white, finest" etc - this stuff feels the same, is less expensive, and does not hold excess water. A tremendous brush at a tremendous price, which leaves very little to be desired.

Unused Brush...
http://www.badgerandblade.com/gallery/displayimage.php?imageid=2195

Handmade in England like its more expensive cousins....
http://www.badgerandblade.com/gallery/displayimage.php?imageid=2196

Close up of brush head (unused)
http://www.badgerandblade.com/gallery/displayimage.php?imageid=2198

http://www.badgerandblade.com/gallery/displayimage.php?imageid=2199

http://www.badgerandblade.com/gallery/displayimage.php?imageid=2200

http://www.badgerandblade.com/gallery/displayimage.php?imageid=2201

http://www.badgerandblade.com/gallery/displayimage.php?imageid=2202

Size of wet head in bowl for comparison...
http://www.badgerandblade.com/gallery/displayimage.php?imageid=2203

A few turns...
http://www.badgerandblade.com/gallery/displayimage.php?imageid=2205

A few more...
http://www.badgerandblade.com/gallery/displayimage.php?imageid=2206

Ready for action...
http://www.badgerandblade.com/gallery/displayimage.php?imageid=2207

Lather worked into face...
http://www.badgerandblade.com/gallery/displayimage.php?imageid=2208

http://www.badgerandblade.com/gallery/displayimage.php?imageid=2209

After 3 Passes...
http://www.badgerandblade.com/gallery/displayimage.php?imageid=2211
http://www.badgerandblade.com/gallery/displayimage.php?imageid=2212

Brush in bloom....
http://www.badgerandblade.com/gallery/displayimage.php?imageid=2213


SILVERTIP -
Ahhh.... Silvertip. The most luxurious of luxury, the most expensive, elusive, finest shaving brush bristle in the land.... or is it? Well, that very much depends. While I wouldn't classify this particular example as "floppy" it is INCREDIBLY soft and the bristle is flexable. A silvertip shaving brush is an exercise in luxury, as it just feels damn good rubbed around your face.... but truth be told - the "scrubbing" action of the best badger brush above will actually do a superior job exfoliating, and lifting the hair on your beard to be cut. From a practical purpose - the best badger brush is superior, however from a luxury standpoint, the silvertip has no equals.... think of it like this - the best is your daily driver, and the silvertip is your weekend toy. Silvertip brushes tend to have more intricate handle designs, look fancier, more handwork, more attention to detail, etc. For instance this brush has a STUNNING horn handle (finest faux horn I have experienced) and is without question the best, most elegant looking brush of the bunch.

Pictures do not do this handle justice....
http://www.badgerandblade.com/gallery/displayimage.php?imageid=2214

http://www.badgerandblade.com/gallery/displayimage.php?imageid=2215

Silvertip brush head (unused)
http://www.badgerandblade.com/gallery/displayimage.php?imageid=2216

Tightly packed...
http://www.badgerandblade.com/gallery/displayimage.php?imageid=2217

Overall brush shot (unused)
http://www.badgerandblade.com/gallery/displayimage.php?imageid=2218

http://www.badgerandblade.com/gallery/displayimage.php?imageid=2219

Initially plopped in water (look at the next picture to see how much water the brush "sucks" up...
http://www.badgerandblade.com/gallery/displayimage.php?imageid=2220

Notice how much "wider" the brush is and how much water it has soaked up...
http://www.badgerandblade.com/gallery/displayimage.php?imageid=2221

http://www.badgerandblade.com/gallery/displayimage.php?imageid=2222

Size of wet brush head for comparison....
http://www.badgerandblade.com/gallery/displayimage.php?imageid=2223

A few turns...
http://www.badgerandblade.com/gallery/displayimage.php?imageid=2224

http://www.badgerandblade.com/gallery/displayimage.php?imageid=2225

http://www.badgerandblade.com/gallery/displayimage.php?imageid=2229

Lathered up (could not get "peaks" of lather with this brush, as it makes a "wetter" lather since it soaks up so much water)
http://www.badgerandblade.com/gallery/displayimage.php?imageid=2231

After 3 passes...
http://www.badgerandblade.com/gallery/displayimage.php?imageid=2230

Brush is so soft that if the wet brush is "mashed" down, it will not spring back to its original shape.
http://www.badgerandblade.com/gallery/displayimage.php?imageid=2232

http://www.badgerandblade.com/gallery/displayimage.php?imageid=2233

Flicked to damp...
http://www.badgerandblade.com/gallery/displayimage.php?imageid=2234

Beauty in bloom...
http://www.badgerandblade.com/gallery/displayimage.php?imageid=2235

All three brushes, side by side, post bloom (similar knot sizes)
http://www.badgerandblade.com/gallery/displayimage.php?imageid=2236

Overall - while all 3 brushes were superb, my personal favorite was the "best badger" shaving brush. A truly wonderful looking, feeling, and performing shaving brush which leaves very little to be desired. If it were my first brush... I am afraid to say, I do not think I would have purchased another.

Hope this helps some of you gents! If you have any questions - fire away!

[rtaylor61]

Joel,

Nice review. I have the C&E version of the Best Badger. Yeah, for $35 bucks this thing kicks ass! When anyone asks me about recommending a brush, this is the one!

Randy

[Rik]

Nicely done Joel.

I agree with you and Randy, the EJ best badger is an incredible value and an exceptional brush to boot.

[rtaylor61]

Joel,

I forgot to ask...how much Wild Turkey do you mix in with your lather?:tongue_sm

Randy

[drP]

Exellent review Joel!!

However, on one point i have to disagree severely

"if it were my first brush....i don't think i would have purchased another"......

I definitely do not think so!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!....:lol: :lol:

But seriously:

when taking purely functional apects of shaving brushes in account, then best badger brushes are the "work horses" of classic wetshaving; they are firm, give a very good lather, scrub the whiskers/skin and are nice to look at.

The best badger hair imo is that of Simpsons: an animal (!!) look, shiny, firm, a lot of flex, and a little scratchy to the skin, but by no means unpleasable.

BTW: there is even silvertip which is more prickly to the skin than best badger or even pure badger: so called "barbed" super badger; this feels rather rough...examples are Simpsons and Shavemac barbed super and Vulfix silvertip; the latter feels like sandpaper....!


Peter

[Austin]

Joel, very nice.

[joel]

BTW: there is even silvertip which is more prickly to the skin than best badger or even pure badger: so called "barbed" super badger; this feels rather rough...examples are Simpsons and Shavemac barbed super and Vulfix silvertip; the latter feels like sandpaper....!


Peter

Peter,
I think Vulfix changed their silvertip recently..... they now characterize it as "incredibly soft" and well... it is.... but it really isn't a whole lot different (if at all) than their super badger!

[ajw1976]

Great info. Very helpful for me in choosing my next brush.

[joel]

Great info. Very helpful for me in choosing my next brush.

No problems bud! - If you have any further questions - don't hesitate to post them for us in the shaving brush forum!! :smile:

[hedliniv]

Thanks for posting these Joel!!

[birchhook]

Hi Joel. Great info here, the pictures really tell the story. I'm a little confused by the Best Badger section, perhaps it's just typos. I highlighted the lines. It appears you're comparing Best to Best.



BEST BADGER -
Best badger hair is essentially a refined version of "pure" it tends to have more of a banded pattern, than a solid black color, and it tends to be untrimmed, and as a result is softer on ones face. Best badger will have the SAME characteristics as far as "feel" as the incredibly expensive "High White Mountain" - "Manchurian" etc, as it will be firm on ones skin, yet supple enough to be luxurious. The bristle pack will often be denser than that of best badger, and as a result the brush will retain more water. The hair will have less of a snappyness (inclination to bend) as best badger, and as a result a highly efficacious scrubbing action can be performed on your shaving soap, as well as face. The ONLY leg up the elustrious (and expensive) "rare" hairs have on this brush is/are their water holding abilities, which admittedly are superior - however I can earnestly say - this inexpensive little $35 Edwin Jagger may be my favorite shaving brush... period. It really works like the dickens (see pictures below) and holds the perfect amount of water - not to much, not to little... somewhat ironic that the "mid-level" tends to have the desirabilities from both spectrums. As far as I am concerned - to hell with "high, euro white, finest" etc - this stuff feels the same, is less expensive, and does not hold excess water. A tremendous brush at a tremendous price, which leaves very little to be desired.


Thanks for all the work to post this.

[Ashe]

Very nice review. As mentioned above, the pictures do tell the story.

This weekend I'll be ordering a best badger edwin jagger brush (based on reading this forum and SMF forum) and a Merkur HD from the gentlemensshop in the UK to finally switch from my M3 setup to a real setup. I'm still reviewing what cream and AS I'm gonna order as well.

I will also be ordering sampler packs from both Scotto and letterk to have those too within the next 2 to 3 weeks (hopefully) to finally make the switch. :001_smile

[Gatorade]

Where can I get the Best Badger Brush? I checked EJ online and the only site was in UK so I don't know who the US rep would be?

[TraderJoe]

Where can I get the Best Badger Brush? I checked EJ online and the only site was in UK so I don't know who the US rep would be?

I believe this brush can be found at C&E for $35

[Gatorade]

I believe this brush can be found at C&E for $35


The brush above has the EJ logo not the CE logo. That is different.

[TraderJoe]

The brush above has the EJ logo not the CE logo. That is different.

The C&E brushes are made by Edwin Jagger

[Gatorade]

The C&E brushes are made by Edwin Jagger


Yeah, I know that. But what I am asking is where do you get THAT brush.

[joel]

Yeah, I know that. But what I am asking is where do you get THAT brush.

The three brushes pictured in the above photos are not for sale to the public to the best of my knowledge. From what I am told - there will be one released similar to the horn handled one, but the specific ones in the pictures are not for sale to my knowledge.

[Gatorade]

The three brushes pictured in the above photos are not for sale to the public to the best of my knowledge. From what I am told - there will be one released similar to the horn handled one, but the specific ones in the pictures are not for sale to my knowledge.


That's what I thought. I don't mind having the C&E logo but given the choice of the C&E and the EJ I would take the EJ in a heart beat. PM me if you decide you have one too many brushes and that one just won't fit on the shelf! :wink:

[JohnnyWolf]

Thank you very much for the review, I wish I would have found it before buying my first brush today. But since my purchase was the Best Badger, it would have have affected my decision expect that I would have explored finding one with the EJ logo instead.

Anyone know where someone could buy the Best Badger with the EJ logo and not the Crabtree logo? Would it still be $35?

[rtaylor61]

Yeah, I know that. But what I am asking is where do you get THAT brush.

Just visit the Gentleman's Shop!

http://www.gentlemans-shop.com/acatalog/Shaving_Brushes.html

You even have a variety choose from. Just scroll down the page!

Randy

[Ashe]

I'm awaiting response from the Gentlemen's Shop regarding the EJ Best Badger brush because it's listed as out of stock on their website.

Once the EJ best badger brush and the imitation ivory brush stand are both in stock I will order them together with a Merkur HD and some other items so that I can put my Mach 3 and Omega brush finally in the closet.

[Lightwaves]

I picked the $35 C&E as my upgrade from the C&E bristle for the eventual daring transition to DE. You can get the slick chrome stand also for about $15 as well. I was looking for something with a good quality and a decent price tag, thanks for the information here. I kinda like the C&E logo as well, gives it a nice touch without words...

[Libu]

Sick.

[Paul10]

What Soap were you using during your tests?

[joel]

What Soap were you using during your tests?

"Method - All of the brushes are from the same manufacture, in new, unused condition so as to eliminate as many variables as possible. Each shaving brush was used under similar circumstances, with the exact same cake of Saint Charles Shave Almond shaving soap."

[canman23]

WOW!! great review and pics. Just what I needed to see and this will sure save me some $$$. My wife got me a best badger brush for Christmas and I have been bugging her for a silvertip brush. Thanks to this review Ill just get my another best badger maybe two :biggrin1: myself.

[PalmettoB]

Or you can get the B&B brush! Not as cheap, but OH! what a brush. Lifetime purchase right there!

[netsurfr]

Joel -
Thanks for that review.
I did not really understand the differences despite prior reading.
I really appreciate you posting.
Steve

[MacTel456]

Thanks for the clerification Joel.

[prophet]

nice...i have a vulfix best badger, love it.

[smithno]

I got my EJ Best from Duluth Trading Co. The Wife gave it to me for Christmas. I have since gotten a C&E and while they are very, very similar, I like the EJ better. It comes with a stand and the lettering reversed so it is readable in the stand. Price is $39.50, which is about the same as a C&E with a cheap stand.

http://www.duluthtrading.com/search/searchresults/32045.aspx?feature=Product_8

There are also pictures of them side by side in a thread I posted a week or so ago.

Loved the review!!!

Norm

[TightLines]

I like those photos of shaving equipment in close proximity of fine alcoholic spirits. I think I might be missing an ancillary nuance of wet shaving. I think I need to find a way to move the shaving place next to the liquor cabinet or the liquor cabinet into the bathroom. :biggrin:

And I wonder if Sue can concoct a eau de single malt scotch shaving soap.:lol:

[TimmyBoston]

Great Review Joel! :thumbup: Very informative.

[SilkySmooth]

Nice job Joel!

[LeGaulois]

It's a very good comparison.
Thanks you Joel :thumbup:

[rm71]

Joel thanks for your time and effort on this. Very informative.:badger:

[denissawyer]

Joel once again you've proven to be a fountain of knowledge, thank you for disseminating this information upon this community.:smile: :smile: :smile:

[smithno]

Anyone know where someone could buy the Best Badger with the EJ logo and not the Crabtree logo? Would it still be $35?

http://www.theenglishshavingcompany.com is their web site. Click on the American Flag to change from Pounds to Dollars. If you are on the East Coast, it takes about 5 working days to get the brush.

If you don't want to order from the UK, Duluth Trading Co. has a best with stand for $39. I got one for Christmas last year and it remains in my regular brush rotation. I also have a small Super in Immitation Marble, which is my current favorite brush! You can't go wrong with either, IMHO!:biggrin:

[Bradford]

What a great post thank you for the information.

[thechurchill]

Perfectly explained!! I've been working with a Pure Badger from TAOS (my first), all the while looking for that ideal Silvertip. Very glad I read this post first, saved me some serious cash. With regards to the C&E Best: "If you have the means, I highly recommend picking one up. It is SO choice." Thanks Joel!!

[NeckShaver]

Just bought the EJ in Best. Here. (http://www.theenglishshavingcompany.com/cgi-bin/psProdDet.cgi/1EJ946%7C%7C@cEdwin%20Jagger%20Best%20badger%20sha ving%20brushes@b%7C0%7Cuser%7C%7C29%7C) Great price, great brush, great times!

[jellywerker]

Very helpful, and lets me know I am looking for a dense best brush, rather than anything else.

[Nick75]

Very interesting review, thanks Joel. And those really are 3 *beautiful* brushes.

[TOB9595]

Wonderful Pictorial of the three types
Thank You

[Texican]

Excellent job, Joel.

Once again, your shaving expertise never ceases to impress me. :ouch1::ouch1::ouch1:

[Roland]

That Edwin Jagger brush,is it the same as these?
http://www.gents.co.uk/products/Edwin-Jagger-Shave-Kit-Ebony.htm
http://www.gents.co.uk/products/edwin-jagger-shave-kit-ivory.htm

I just got into wetshaving and got all my gear this week. I got that kit plus a Merkur 38C (Barbers Pole) from classicshaving. Been watching some instruction videos on youtube as well and I've tried it twice now with very good results. First I didn't have the brush or soap, they did a huuge difference in the shave.

All in all I am very happy with my setup.

[michael m]

Great job.....makes it easy to send people here for a quick direct information .

[xtheocean]

Very good explanation, extremely informative.

What about the difference between SilverTip and Super Badger ? Are they they same of different, and if different, which one is of higher "quality" ?

David

[joel]

Very good explanation, extremely informative.

What about the difference between SilverTip and Super Badger ? Are they they same of different, and if different, which one is of higher "quality" ?

David

Silvertip is of higher quality than super. There are only a few manufacturers who use "super" and most I wouldn't buy a brush from anyways :biggrin:

[Silb3r]

Very good explanation, extremely informative.

What about the difference between SilverTip and Super Badger ? Are they they same of different, and if different, which one is of higher "quality" ?

David

David,

Welcome!

[xtheocean]

Thanks Joel for the reply. I have a C&E (made by E Jagger of course), Super Badger. While it is fairly large (almost too big), the badger hair feels great, much more luxurious that the Plisson Pure badgers I use as well. Although most of the time I do use the Plisson as its more of an "everyday" type brush in my book. I'm just wondering how that Super badger compares to a SilverTip, which I don't own currently, but may try if the opportunity arises.

Great forum, by the way. My wife thinks I'm a bit of a nut already with this wet shaving hobby, but she indulges my pastime as it ultimately does result in a smooth shaved, nice smelling hubby.

David

[dcormier]

A newbie thanks you.

[huntmol]

Great review!

I just started wetshaving and am using an HD and a $20 pure badger brush.
I can't wait to try out a best or silvertip brush!

[Baines93]

Nice Brushes.

Thanks for the interesting read.

Getting ideas for a first brush.

[mmain1]

Very nice job on the thread.

I'm amazed how in every other area YMMV is the only truth, but when it comes to brushes almost everyone agrees that the $35 C&E Best Badger Brush is an exceptional brush and a great value. C&E should start a rumor that they are discontinuing them and their sales would triple overnight. :001_rolle

[sescallier]

Great thread, I have the C&E best badger and its very nice.

[basher052]

Joel et al,

Thanks for all the info. I honestly think I have learned more about small rodent hair than I ever would have thought I would. :drool:

Looks like a trip to the local mall on Monday and a stop at C&E for the Best. Razor and strop are on the way, so if all goes well, the wifey will have a smooth hubby soon.:biggrin:

[Hirsutz]

Hi Joel, thank you very much for this excellent informative review. What is the knot size of the brushes you have tested?

I am currently looking for a new badger brush. Some months ago, I bought a Plisson budget shaving set including a brush, a stand, a mug and a soap. The brush s... as after a few uses, the handle has separated from the hair :sad:
I will try to find the best badger at a C&E French store or else order it online - there are enough websites recommended in this thread :w00t:

[Davis211]

You can by an Edwin Jagger Best Badger brush online at The English Shaving Company (theenglishshavingcompany.com) for $35.00. You can buy in $ and they with ship it at a total cost of about $43.00. I just bought one.

[Private Pwnage]

Hi Joel, thank you very much for this excellent informative review. What is the knot size of the brushes you have tested?

I am currently looking for a new badger brush. Some months ago, I bought a Plisson budget shaving set including a brush, a stand, a mug and a soap. The brush s... as after a few uses, the handle has separated from the hair :sad:
I will try to find the best badger at a C&E French store or else order it online - there are enough websites recommended in this thread :w00t:

some epoxy will render that good as new

[Viper51]

Very informative nice to see the different types. i have a art of shaving brush which i brought i new York, which i am very pleased with i believe it is a best bristle $ 40 i think.

Cheers Viper 51

[Oldhope]

Newbie question I guess... often I see brushes described as "Super Badger" or "Finest Badger" (B&BE for example) rather than 'pure', 'best', or 'Silvertip'.

What do those terms indicate? Are there any other terms besides those, and where might they fit?

[netsurfr]

Thanks for the review and comparison. Much appreciated!

[Pokerstar]

I like those photos of shaving equipment in close proximity of fine alcoholic spirits. I think I might be missing an ancillary nuance of wet shaving. I think I need to find a way to move the shaving place next to the liquor cabinet or the liquor cabinet into the bathroom. :biggrin:

And I wonder if Sue can concoct a eau de single malt scotch shaving soap.:lol:

Please, for safetys sake, shave THEN imbibe! :)

[joel]

Newbie question I guess... often I see brushes described as "Super Badger" or "Finest Badger" (B&BE for example) rather than 'pure', 'best', or 'Silvertip'.

What do those terms indicate? Are there any other terms besides those, and where might they fit?

Totally depends on the maker, brand, source, or marketing fella in charge of detailing what the hair is.

For some (a la Rooney) Finest it is their top range - above their silvertip and "super silvertip" (whatever the beans that is). Other brands however mark finest as below silvertip.

Super badger is typically in between best and silvertip.

In the case of the BBE - finest means, the finest hair you're going to get (unbleached) for under $100. No marketing b/s, or silly titles. The whole "finest, best, super" etc is largely hogwash and utterly meaningless to badger farms - however on the same token the cryptic numbering/lettering grades they rate badger with aren't particularly enlightening either.

[Raj]

Nice comparison of different brushes, Joel. I have also tried the three different brushes belonging to the M-P brand from Germany and agree on most of what you said allready. I use the best badger on a daily basis, the pure badger for travel and the silver tipp when I want to pamper myself (to enjoy the soft brush caressing my face, usually sundays and holidays when shaving is a more relaxed ritual). There is yet one more thing that I noticed that you perhaps did not mention and that is that the silver tip produces the most amount of lather but it seems to remain in the brush, delivering less to the face. The pure badger on the other hand produces less but lets it flow over to the face easily and the best badger lies in between. I agree with you that the best badger is the "best" compromise.

[coyote]

Vey nice demonstration, can I ask you what knot size is the Edwin Jagger Best Badger Brush? Thanks for your time

[joel]

Vey nice demonstration, can I ask you what knot size is the Edwin Jagger Best Badger Brush? Thanks for your time

Unfortunately, I don't have a clue :redface:

[burnwood]

Unfortunately, I don't have a clue :redface:

tell us something we don't know.:biggrin:

[joel]

tell us something we don't know.:biggrin:

Dr. Bunson Honeydew's Lab is about to be set on fire :wink:

[burnwood]

Dr. Bunson Honeydew's Lab is about to be set on fire :wink:

run Prince run. he is coming after you. You gave me the day off so I am safe.

meep meep,

beaker

[Ramaniac]

Thank you for the very informative run down on the brushes! I hope to shoot for the middle of the pack here. That silvertip is beautiful.

[Trotters]

Excellent job Joel. I currently own a EJ Chatsworth Silvertip badger brush, is it going to be worth purchasing a "Best" badger brush?.

Thanks

[Lou]

Thanks for the comparison. I see the same attributes with my C&E Best and Muhle Pinsel Silvertip brushes. The C&E Best does everything just right, as does the MP but with a more luxurious feel to the skin. I could have been perfectly happy with just my C&E, but at $45 I couldn't turn down the MP (turned out to be an awesome little brush).

[jinenjo]

Thank you very much Joel. The GF is buying me a brush for Hannukah. I consulted this thread before going with the EJ Super, from this (http://www.highlandmenscare.com/shaving-shaving-brushes.html)site. I was glad to find a horn handle. I love the look. :001_rolle

[ambrose]

Awesome post :shaving:

[SRock]

Another great guide Joel! Thanks for doing what you do!

[mankini]

Joel is there anything you are not an expert on :lol:

[joel]

Joel is there anything you are not an expert on :lol:

Math.

[Stuggi]

Damn fine tutorial this, I have the best badger brush, and I didn't really like it at first becuase I couldn't get it to lather properly, and now I'm getting mediocre lather at best. But after looking at your pictures, I understand why. First off, I didn't let it soak for more than maybe half a minute, and I only spinned it long enough on the soap to generate a look like your first pic. Now I'm gonna try duplicating you last pic, and see where it takes me... :)

[muddy250]

I was heading for a Kent silvertip until I read this and decided the EJ best badger was a better bet for an everyday brush. Just used it for the first time this evening and the quality of the shave was massively improved by the excellent lather it generated. Worth every bean!

Chris

[Stuggi]

BTW, what's the knotsize on the BBB?

[The_Danish_Guy]

Very good review, thank you for that:001_smile

I found the best badger at http://www.theenglishshavingcompany.com/cgi-bin/psProdDet.cgi/9EJ947||@cEdwin%20Jagger%20Best%20badger%20shaving %20brushes@b|0|user||35|
.... for $29,42. It seems to be the same...!??? BUT cheaper.

This might just be the one that i buy :thumbup1:

Kind regards Lars Jensen

[The_Danish_Guy]

Very good review, thank you for that:001_smile

I found the best badger at http://www.theenglishshavingcompany.com/cgi-bin/psProdDet.cgi/9EJ947||@cEdwin%20Jagger%20Best%20badger%20shaving %20brushes@b|0|user||35|
.... for $29,42. It seems to be the same...!??? BUT cheaper.

This might just be the one that i buy :thumbup1:

Kind regards Lars Jensen

Ahhh, i could be because of the size, that the price is cheaper....:blush:... D'OH!!
I'm a newbie, what do you expect??:blush::lol:

[Stuggi]

Get the medium, the small is quite rough... :/

[Classical&Jazz]

Wow what a review! Great info.

I started with a Omega synthetic just ordered a Fendrihan version of silvertip but a guess my next one will be a super badger. OMG I'm addicted :biggrin:

Marc

[amateriat]

After buying a cheap n' nasty brush from The Body Shop (boar bristle? It was awful, and to think I was using it with a Pumaster straight at the time!), I bought a brass-handled "1903" silver-tip on sale from the GCT J. Peterman store in Manhattan when it was still around, and it's been my standard ever since. (Glad that Peterman eventually got the mail-order part of the operation going again, as their 1903 cologne is the only stuff I bother putting on...a truly "adult" cologne.) I've had it for over eight years, and it feels like it'll go for at least another eight.

http://mysite.verizon.net/bwbenton/Shaved!/JPSBbrass.jpg
(Yes, I need to clean up that handle a bit.)


- Barrett

[Rousey]

Thanks for your wonderful review Joel; as a beginner I was a bit confused over all the different types of brush. I'm glad that you think the EJ Best Badger it is a great brush, as I have been eyeing one for a while now.

[costa]

Nice whiskey collection.

[cesium]

Your review has really helped me make up my mind. Well done!

[gaseousclay]

nice read. I hardly pay attention to stickies and only just noticed this one tonight. glad I decided to get a best badger brush rather than a pure. good job.

[pablo_h]

Very good review, thank you for that:001_smile

I found the best badger at http://www.theenglishshavingcompany.com/cgi-bin/psProdDet.cgi/9EJ947||@cEdwin%20Jagger%20Best%20badger%20shaving %20brushes@b|0|user||35|
.... for $29,42. It seems to be the same...!??? BUT cheaper.

This might just be the one that i buy :thumbup1:

Kind regards Lars Jensen
I know you've already realised it's a different brush, but I'm just quoting you to just say thanks, as I have never heard of that online shop.

It's only 24.50 UK pounds (~au$55) for the medium EJ best badger from that site delivered to australia. That's very cheap for us!
It's au$50 for just a small pure badger brush from most shops here.

Thanks for the review Joel too. I read you review ages ago, and that's what made me want to buy a C&E or EJ BB brush, but I never knew where to get them until now.
Our au$ sucks to the greenback right now, but it's business as usual when compared to UK pounds, so better to buy from the UK for us aussies.

[krisbarger]

Is there anywhere to buy the EJ BB in the USA?

[BAMF624]

I got a vufflix from lee's and have been really happy with it thus far

[auee1977]

Gents,

Is this link to the C&E best badger which has been discussed in this thread? http://store.crabtree-evelyn.com/edwin-jagger-acc130245.html
If not which one is? Thanks.

[bunchoffives]

No, that's the Pure Badger travel brush.

The C&E BBB that gets referenced so much on B&B is this one:

http://store.crabtree-evelyn.co.uk/invt/130291&bklist=icat,5,shop,collections,edwinjagger,130291

Its item number is #130291, and unfortunately it hasn't been in stock on the C&E website for over three months. In fact, it appears that it's not even listed on their website anymore. You may be able to find one at a C&E store still, but I'm not sure when they'll be available through C&E online again.

If you do go to a C&E store, make sure you write down that item number. Their staff can be a little... "confused"... when it comes to their various shaving brushes and you don't want to end up buying something that you don't want.

Additionally, you can do what I did and order the medium Edwin Jagger BBB from TESC here:

http://www.theenglishshavingcompany.com/cgi-bin/psProdDet.cgi/1EJ947||@cEdwin%20Jagger%20Best%20badger%20shaving %20brushes@b|0|user||38|

It's the same thing as the C&E BBB (Edwin Jagger provides C&E with their brushes) and, even with shipping from the UK, you can usually snag it for ~$35.

Hope this helps!

[auee1977]

No, that's the Pure Badger travel brush.

The C&E BBB that gets referenced so much on B&B is this one:

http://store.crabtree-evelyn.co.uk/invt/130291&bklist=icat,5,shop,collections,edwinjagger,130291

Its item number is #130291, and unfortunately it hasn't been in stock on the C&E website for over three months. In fact, it appears that it's not even listed on their website anymore. You may be able to find one at a C&E store still, but I'm not sure when they'll be available through C&E online again.

If you do go to a C&E store, make sure you write down that item number. Their staff can be a little... "confused"... when it comes to their various shaving brushes and you don't want to end up buying something that you don't want.

Additionally, you can do what I did and order the medium Edwin Jagger BBB from TESC here:

http://www.theenglishshavingcompany.com/cgi-bin/psProdDet.cgi/1EJ947||@cEdwin%20Jagger%20Best%20badger%20shaving %20brushes@b|0|user||38|

It's the same thing as the C&E BBB (Edwin Jagger provides C&E with their brushes) and, even with shipping from the UK, you can usually snag it for ~$35.

Hope this helps!

It helps tremendously. I am going for the small size as I have a beard and shave only part of my cheeks and under the jaw line. This size helps me control application of the lather. Thanks so much for taking the time to point me in the right direction.

[Deuser]

What is the difference between 'super' and 'best' badger brushes

thanks

[DE7]

Thanks, Joel. I found this to be very informative. I am relatively new to this and recently bought a $15 Tweezerman badger brush, knowing that I'd be upgrading to a better brush at some point. Your tutorial has gone a long way toward helping me pick my next (perhaps last?) brush.

Mike

[sunych]

Awasome:w00t:

[ieschwoch]

This is a very helpful, thorough review. Thanks for putting in the time and effort to post it!

[bokaba]

Thanks Joel! I was wondering if you could explain the differences between pure badger, best badger, finest badger, and silvertip insofar as where they come from on the badger, how they are made, why one is more expensive than the other, etc.

[thunderball]

Whoa I wish I would have seen this, like, a year ago! :biggrin: Awesome review of the different grades - thanks!

[edybarkoczi]

Hi Joel,

very good post :thumbup1:, may I ask you what was the knot size of this tree brushes? Thanks.

edy

[MOVIESTAR]

WOW this is the best detailed review ive ever seen in my life. good one bro.

[Fozzy-Beard]

Hello Joel,

whow, encredible!!! This is very helpful for me purchasing my first Edwin Jagger brush!
Many, many thanks for all the beautifull pics and the detailed describtion!

Kind regards from Germany

Michael!

[Crazy Dave]

Hi-ho, hi-ho, to C&E I go!

Dave

[Pottertons]

Hey Joel? What a fantastic review. Pics always help when making a final decision. This has made my decision much easier and hands down the "Best" badger brush seems to be the more ideal choice.
I started googleing and I found this link even though i'm already a member here. Seems like the majority of links pertaining to wetshaving end up here. Good stuff.

Anyhow, I need to get a new brush because the entire inner part of my body shop brush decided to suddenly fall out during my lather session last night. LOL Now there's just an outer rim of bristle.

One question though, how do you know if you're getting the real deal?

I ask because i've seen some outstanding deals on ebay. Between $10 and $20 for Pure and Silvertips. The "Best" ones seem to be the only kind that reflect the same price margin as ones on popular sites.

This is the link for the search I did.

http://shop.ebay.com/items/__Badger-shaving-brush?_trkparms=65%253A12%257C66%253A2%257C39%253A 1%257C72%253A1205&_trksid=p3286.c0.m14&_sop=15&_sc=1 (http://shop.ebay.com/items/__Badger-shaving-brush?_trkparms=65%253A12%257C66%253A2%257C39%253A 1%257C72%253A1205&_trksid=p3286.c0.m14&_sop=15&_sc=1)

[blackdog1101]

Hey Joel? What a fantastic review. Pics always help when making a final decision. This has made my decision much easier and hands down the "Best" badger brush seems to be the more ideal choice.
I agree, this thread was very helpful in making my first brush purchase. I ended up buying a Edwin Jagger Best Badger brush from a well known seller on eBay. I feel confident that this was a sound choice, and this thread really helped.

[JBLAZE725]

I am getting the Crabtree & Evelyn Edwin Jagger Super Badger brush. Is this considered a Best or Silvertip or something in between? Also which will it perform most similar to?

[abborn]

Where can I order this Brush?

[Nils]

Great Review!
I'd like to point all the gentlemen interested in an EJ Brush towards the Super Badger. I own both a Best and Super; the Best Badger is a small travel brush. The performance and finishing is superb. For a few Euros more, the Super Badger is a revelation. It combines the luxurious softness of a Silver Tip with the firmness of Best Badger. At 50 Euros it was a steal and has robbed me of an excuse for ever buying another brush...:wink:

http://www.theenglishshavingcompany.com/images/EJ256IE.jpg

[maugutierrez1]

What would you say my brush is?
I bought it online at the Truefitt & Hill website.

http://img43.imageshack.us/img43/9928/img1781u.jpg

[DavidMGunther]

It looks like it's been said a couple of times.... but thanks for the post.

[English]

Great review Joel.

I would point out that Kent make a "Best" badger brush called a BK2 and it is also inexpensive and has the same qualities you describe for the Edwin Jagger.
Because it is inexpensive it tends to get overlooked. I used one for many happy years.

I also think that when you move up from best badger to silver tip, the brush is usually floppy but it does release the soap onto the face more easily. However, I think floppy brushes are useless for making a lather with soap.

Finally, there are the top grades of badger hair usually distinguished by a black band and a white top. This badger hair does it all. It retains the springyness of best badger (actually it is better) it creates a wonderfull fine dense lather from a soap, it holds lots of lather and it release the lather easily onto the face. Now it's expensive. But having used "best badger" and "black band silver tip badger", I would suggest that best badger is not in the same league. I wouldn't wish to go back to best having changed and I don't think it is a marginal difference.

[houlejames]

So does a silvertip badger work for soap in a puck? I face lather and am using a pure badger Vulfix that I like but have a chance to get a used Penchetta silvertip at a reasonable price.

[rvmx]

Helpful post...now I' about to buy my first silvertip

[bearbear]

the c&e bbb was my first, and so far only brush 7 months into wetshaving. Its lathers my soaps beautifully, and is just the right level of roughness. Thankd goodnes, cuz i couldn't affor an sbad.

Once i've got a lil more funds, i'm going to grab one of these topquality that are like the bbb as far as springyness, but hold more water, and lather the face more readily.

[SRock]

the c&e bbb was my first, and so far only brush 7 months into wetshaving. Its lathers my soaps beautifully, and is just the right level of roughness. Thankd goodnes, cuz i couldn't affor an sbad.

Once i've got a lil more funds, i'm going to grab one of these topquality that are like the bbb as far as springyness, but hold more water, and lather the face more readily.

Start saving now and make the 2009 LE your second brush! :cool:

[alex2363]

thanks joel im get a siver tip and best.

[Emmett]

What would you say my brush is?
I bought it online at the Truefitt & Hill website.

< image redacted >

I'd say your brush is BIG. :biggrin:

[Dshave4]

I went to Paul Mole Barbershop on Saturday and they were having a huge sidewalk sale - I bought a new EJ badger brush for just $20. They are having the sidewalk sale again on 10/25/09 so if you need soap, brushes, or blades you should shop by if you live in NYC. 74th and Lexington.

[Engine]

Arrrrgh, I wish I'd known about the Paul Mole sale two days ago! Why, oh why, did I not check this thread sooner! :)

I'll have to call and see if they plan another!

[RightAJ]

Wow that was cool! Great pics! Sounds like the Best Badger is really the way to go (if you don't have the money for the silvertip). Now I have to find a shop that sells these!

aj

[ryrelav]

Very good post! Nice JOB!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[klstclair]

This kind of information is really good. Thanks for taking the time to put it together.

On the other hand now I have more stuff I want to buy :001_smile

Kevin

[GoldenBacon]

I have the Edwin Jager best badger brush, and I would have to say its the best brush that I have owned by far.

[DJSneak]

Excellent post. I'm a late comer, but it's still incredibly relavent.

I have a VDH boar and a Vulfix Pure Badger. I'm very interested in trying out a Best Badger and will bust the C&E Best out of the box this weekend.

[grazor]

Joel,

Thanks for the great info. I'm a newbie, just started wet shaving one week ago. This is really helpful.

Regards,
grazor

[alex2363]

cool presentation...now i want one

[echelon3]

Thank you so much for this post.
To a newbie such as myself, it is quite helpful.

[I Like it Shaved]

Best....Thread...Ever.. :thumbup:

[Trujillo]

Extremely helpful thread for a DE newbie. Been using a cheap Wally World boar brush too long (about 20 years!!

[illiniruss]

Thank you very much for the review, I wish I would have found it before buying my first brush today. But since my purchase was the Best Badger, it would have have affected my decision expect that I would have explored finding one with the EJ logo instead.

Anyone know where someone could buy the Best Badger with the EJ logo and not the Crabtree logo? Would it still be $35?

Yes...Check out theenglishshavingcompany.co.uk
I have the XL super badger from there. FANTASTIC brush with a huge bloom
All their brushes are marked EJ.

Russ

[mrbard]

I know a few others have asked previously about the differences between the pure, best, super and then silvertip. I know that Joel originally covered the Pure, Best and Silvertip but I was just wondering how the Super compares to the other 3 and where it fits in?

I only started the whole new fandangle DE wet shaving about a week ago and am still getting all of my gear together, the brush being the last thing. This thread has been super helpful in aiding me with my decision so far regarding a great badger brush. I am definitely keen to pick up an EJ Imitation Light Horn Chatsworth Best Badger Shaving Brush. I just wanted to quickly find out about the differences between the Super Badger and the others before I went ahead and invested in the Best Badger.

Cheers!

[Rconectn]

Great review and pics, helped me understand the differences in badger brushes. Now off to upgrade from my boar bristle shaving brush.

[rodeo]

Great job Joel!

Very helpful for beginners such as myself. I just ordered my first brush and DE razor too and will be trying wet shaving for my first time after decades of using disposable razors and goop.

For those seeking to buy this E&J BBB brush here in the U.S.A., here's where I got mine. I happened to buy the "large 23mm" size. I'm a big guy and so I bought a large brush, plus it was available too. For the record, I read each and every post on these 7 pages! Thanks again Joel!

Black Urn
http://bestgroomingtools.com/best-badger-ebony-urn-shaving-brush-edwin-jagger-p-1328.html

White Urn
http://bestgroomingtools.com/best-badger-ivory-urn-shaving-brush-edwin-jagger-p-1216.html

[jgkeegan]

Thank you very much for the review, I wish I would have found it before buying my first brush today. But since my purchase was the Best Badger, it would have have affected my decision expect that I would have explored finding one with the EJ logo instead.

Anyone know where someone could buy the Best Badger with the EJ logo and not the Crabtree logo? Would it still be $35?

I am told by the C&E people in Albany, NY, that the C&E brand for brushes is being phased out and they will deal EJ only.

[Jeffc]

BTW: there is even silvertip which is more prickly to the skin than best badger or even pure badger: so called "barbed" super badger; this feels rather rough...examples are Simpsons and Shavemac barbed super and Vulfix silvertip; the latter feels like sandpaper....!


Peter

Do you know what the Simpsons 'barbed super badger' is called ? Or are you saying that all of the Simpsons are rougher ?? I emailed Simpsons and they suggested the 'Chubby' or 'Duke' in Best, but Im not sure if they knew of a Barbed type

[GeneralJohn]

I went from a Burma-Shave boar to a Parker Silvertip and I just can't see why I'd spend $35 for the C&E BB when $25 more got me the Parker. So soft and luxurious...like a kiss from the wife in the morning. Maybe I'll try a BB in a few years but for now I'm loving the PArker. One thing though...after face lathering w/Proraso, I get loads more lather from squeezing the brush than from brushing it across my face. I don't need it at that point, having already shaved but just rinsing it down the sink seems such a waste...

[Brandon]

This old (or should I say finely aged) post really helped me when deciding on a brush. Thanks to the OP!

[rockviper]

I agree. This post really helped me see the differences between the brush grades.

[TheDoctor]

Thanks for the thread. The silvertip, btw, looks exactly like the one I own, so I'm especially happy that you liked it.

[josephfrye]

Joel, this is an excellent thread. I am getting ready to buy a new brush. I am definitely oging to take your advice. Thank you!

[salazch12]

I've also seen Super badger, and Finest badger. Whats the difference between those and Pure, Best, and Silvertip?

[earl]

good discussion of an often debated topic;:thumbup:
earl

[bobfarvour]

This is one of the most helpful threads I've ever read !!

And it helps cement my own opinion that I like Pure and Best more than the others. I thought I was missing something.

[Perkus]

Nice photo expos&#233; and very informative.

Good job!

:o)
Perkus

[Smokinwill]

Thanks for the great information. Now I know what to look for when I go to upgrade from the boar brush I just got a couple weeks ago.

[Quartermain]

What a fantastic review - thank you so much for taking the tme and effort to produce this.

[Trooper]

Very informative thanks

[mhdena]

I need to get a good brush and don't think I want to buy several on my way up the ladder. I'd rather get a better than good once than several.
I was looking at

Shavemac #25 23mm Silver Tip $97
Simpson Harvard H2 Best Badger $90
Simpsons Berkeley Best Badger $49
Edwin Jagger Best Badger Shaving Brush,
Medium, Imitation Light Horn $44

I don't mind paying for the Shavemac to start but if the $49 Simpson or $44 Edwin Jagger are close I'll start there. I was going to get an AOS $50 kit mainly for the brush until I did a little more digging. There is also a Barber Supply nearby I'm going to call Tuesday and see what they have in the store.

Thanks

[chongyixiong]

Sorry to dig up an old thread, but would just like to say how great the post has been..

Since the 2 years that this article has been written, the latest EJ brushes have only 3 grades:

Best Badger -> Super Badger -> Silvertip Badger

Does this still apply to what have been said, meaning that the current Best Badger is equivalent to yesteryear's Pure Badger, Super Badger is to yesteryear's Best Badger?

Thanks.

[minibeezy]

Sorry to dig up an old thread, but would just like to say how great the post has been..

Since the 2 years that this article has been written, the latest EJ brushes have only 3 grades:

Best Badger -> Super Badger -> Silvertip Badger

Does this still apply to what have been said, meaning that the current Best Badger is equivalent to yesteryear's Pure Badger, Super Badger is to yesteryear's Best Badger?

Thanks.

Edwin Jagger still makes a pure brush:

http://www.theenglishshavingcompany.com/cgi-bin/psProdDet.cgi/81SB356&#37;7C%7C@cEdwin%20Jagger%20Pure%20badger%20sh aving%20brushes@b%7C0%7Cuser%7C%7C10%7C

I think you can find plain colored ones on amazon as well, at least you could a year ago: the EJ pure brush was my first. :biggrin1:

Edit: Here's a black handle pure brush on amazon: http://www.amazon.com/Edwin-Jagger-Badger-Shaving-Medium/dp/B003LW6S0U/ref=pd_sbs_a_1

Edit again: To answer your question: No, the hair grades have not changed.

[earl]

a while back (several years) "Diluth Trading) sp.? had one with ejj name
in pure badger.....maybe they still do.:001_cool:

[vertelselaar]

Superb and highly informative post. Thanks for your work and your sharing! It is very helpful.

[cadarn]

I know this review is a few years old, but I'm going to try out the EJ best badger. It has to be better than the uncomfortable and cheap tweezerman I just returned.

[mandoman]

Nice review thanks :001_smile

[ieschwoch]

I've used both the EJ "best" and EJ "super" (which is a poor man's version of the EJ "silver tip"), and I have to disagree with Joel's assertion that all high-end brushes have the same "feel" as best badger brushes. The EJ super is far softer on my face than the EJ best, so much so that the super is my daily shaver and the best just got unloaded on B/S/T.

YMMV, of course, and I don't dispute that some people would prefer the scrubbier action of a best badger brush, but I do dispute that super/silvertip brushes feel the same as best badger brushes. If anyone is looking for a good value in a brush, I would highly recommend the EJ Super Badger brush, which is incredibly soft and luxurious to use at roughly 1/2 the cost of the EJ silver tip.

[dieselfuel79]

Thank you very much for the review, I wish I would have found it before buying my first brush today. But since my purchase was the Best Badger, it would have have affected my decision expect that I would have explored finding one with the EJ logo instead.

Anyone know where someone could buy the Best Badger with the EJ logo and not the Crabtree logo? Would it still be $35?


Here you go. I am a few years late on this, but I am new here. Might still be useful for some of you.

Black handle:

http://www.fendrihan.com/edwin-jagger-best-badger-shaving-brush-medium-ebony-p-239.html?cPath=116_3_56

Faux Ivory handle as seen at the start of this thread. For the extra $4 you even get a drip stand:

http://www.fendrihan.com/edwin-jagger-best-badger-shaving-brush-stand-medium-ivory-p-318.html?cPath=116_3_56

The website is based out of Toronto, Canada.

Hope this helps.

[BMRisko]

THanks for this thread...very helpful for a newbie!

[Badger & Bengall]

Joel, thank you for your informative post. Nothing I've read before this has given so much detail on the characteristics like you have here.

[kfreeman]

Anyone have a suggestion for a place in the US to find these brushes. I've looked on WestCoast Shaving, but I am unsure what matches up to what on there (regarding the Edwin Jagger brushes). Any help is appreciated.

[foppa78]

I have the exact same question as the poster above. After looking at West coast I see Best, Super and Silver tip.

[Nicks&Cuts]

Anyone have a suggestion for a place in the US to find these brushes. I've looked on WestCoast Shaving, but I am unsure what matches up to what on there (regarding the Edwin Jagger brushes). Any help is appreciated.


I have the exact same question as the poster above. After looking at West coast I see Best, Super and Silver tip.

The TESC site may help you guys out. (http://www.theenglishshavingcompany.com/english-shaving-tools-of-the-trade-brushes.html)

If you're still unsure and are in a rush to buy, email EJ directly and ask for clarification then buy from the vendor of your choice. Horse's mouth an' all :wink2:

Most manufactures have their own categories and they're aren't always consistent across the board (Kent BK4's for example actually have "Pure Badger" written on the handle, but they are Silvertips). Silvertip is usually the high end, followed by Finest/Super then Pure/Best. If I'm wrong here someone please correct me. I only have a few brushes but did a fair bit of research before buying them.
Generally though it comes down to what you like - some guys prefer a scrubby and slightly prickly brush, others prefer the soft tips.

[LittleLebowski]

This should be stickied. Great writeup and pics.

[tjm]

This thread has really helped me out. I have yet to start shaving with a safety razor (my first one is in the mail right now!) and I was clueless what to look for in a starter brush. Thank you for posting this.

[jgriest03]

Nice write up, even though it was a few years ago it still helped with my decision to buy a brush

[DrAwkward]

Silvertip is of higher quality than super. There are only a few manufacturers who use "super" and most I wouldn't buy a brush from anyways :biggrin:

Dang, this thread is an oldie but goodie! I'm still not sure about "Super." About 4 years ago, Joel said that Super is not as good as Silvertip (and only offered by [not-so-great] manufacturers). Does that include Simpsons, who sells brushes in Super, but not Silvertip? I already love my Simpsons Best; I may need to buy a Simpsons brush in Super just to decide for myself.
That EJ silvertip is gorgeous. I'm please to say I have one almost exactly like it. It may not be as practical or as functional as a Best brush, but I like to take it out for a spin every so often just because it looks and feels sooo good!

[ieschwoch]

Dang, this thread is an oldie but goodie! I'm still not sure about "Super." About 4 years ago, Joel said that Super is not as good as Silvertip (and only offered by [not-so-great] manufacturers). Does that include Simpsons, who sells brushes in Super, but not Silvertip? I already love my Simpsons Best; I may need to buy a Simpsons brush in Super just to decide for myself.
That EJ silvertip is gorgeous. I'm please to say I have one almost exactly like it. It may not be as practical or as functional as a Best brush, but I like to take it out for a spin every so often just because it looks and feels sooo good!

The problem with the various grades of badger hair is that there is no standard between companies. Thus a Simpsons "Best" may not be the same as an EJ "Best." As a general rule, "Super" is somewhere between "Best" and "Silver Tip" for most companies. Other companies (such as Shavemac) use "Finest" to describe the grade between "Best" and "Silver Tip."

I currently own an EJ Super Badger brush and am very happy with it. It is far softer than an EJ Best while retaining just enough scrubbiness to be good at lathering soaps. I have never owned a Simpsons brush so I can't speak on their hair grades.

[mandoman]

as always very nice

[acbulgin]

Thanks for the review and the fantastic pictures. Based on your review, I ordered an Edwin Jagger Medium Best Badger which I have yet to try as it only came yesterday. I will probably christen it tomorrow. One thing I do not understand from your post is that when you describe "best badger", you seem to be comparing "best badger" to "best badger" which is confusing to say the least, e.g.., "BEST BADGER -
Best badger hair is essentially a refined version of "pure" it tends to have more of a banded pattern, than a solid black color, and it tends to be untrimmed, and as a result is softer on ones face. Best badger will have the SAME characteristics as far as "feel" as the incredibly expensive "High White Mountain" - "Manchurian" etc, as it will be firm on ones skin, yet supple enough to be luxurious. The bristle pack will often be denser than that of best badger, and as a result the brush will retain more water. The hair will have less of a snappyness (inclination to bend) as best badger..." &c.

[MightyPir]

This is a great thread, but for all users trying out the EJ BBB I would urge them to put in a few more $ and get a EJ Super Badger brush instead. It has a lot of the properties of the Best Badger, but is softer and more luxurious. My super badger has taken over as my go to brush, and the only time I use the BBB is when I need a more scrubby brush with some soaps.

[JonM]

Thanks for reviving this thread. It has actually saved me some money. I've got one of the rare Edwin Jagger brushes that West Coast was distributing for a short period in best badger with a horn & chrome handle (this model isn't made anymore and had a very short run). I love my BBB but I had been toying with the notion of getting a silvertip. Now I'm not so sure that I'll bother. My BBB just works so well. I'm thrilled with it.

[SliceOfLife]

Yeah, really the only way to be sure is to ask people's opinions on that exact company and grade (shoot for that specific brush too... odds are people have tried em).

[pooley]

Thanks OP for this thread, I was looking at EJ brushes and being a novice at this was debating whether to pay the extra for a Silvertip Badger, but reading your thread made me think it might too soft for what I want in a brush so I went for the best badger. Kudos!

[jpress76]

This thread is awesome. Thanks Joel.

[Ufgoodies]

Thanks joel for an awesome well organized post. I had been looking for the distinctions between the grades for a while, and this was an eye opening experience when i found it. Thanks so much.

[jmsodpc]

So I guess letting your brush bloom is desired?
for some reason I kinda like when the brush isn't bloomed.
I pack it inside a toilet paper tube to keep the bristles from blooming.

I guess I'm the odd ball.

[Toothpick]

i chose the best badger as my favorite based off how the lather looked compared to the other 2. then saw your choice at the end.

[WTG-Thi]

thanks...good review...and very informative

[Whisk Kid]

Excellent thread! Very informative and has helped me quite a bit.

[shaveguy1995]

did you feel that the silvertip worked up a lather with relitave ease? im used to using the tweezerman, and the lack of backbone and excessive shedding made me buy a parker silvertip for 50 or so dollars

[raposo III]

i agree with you sr. i have one ej black exactly like yours on the photo.
i bought this months some chinese products, frank shave 28mmknots ,23,21 and i'm glad with them,its amazing job too.
less expensive may be excelent too.but i love too vulfix 2236 ,i have two, expensive ,super badger,and beaty .when we have $$$, expend some.no money, with fight with cheap guns:laugh:

[Fidem Scit]

I have a Parker 100% Black Badger hair brush I've used for almost two years now and recently bought an Omega Pure Badger. I honestly prefer the Black Badger hair that is not graded.

[Alexfinance]

Excellent review joel ! Thanks very much ! My (blind) decision to go for a best badger Vulfix instead of a silvertip now seems fully justified !

[chinmusic82]

Thank you very much for this comparison Joel. The different pictures at every step of lathering really helped answer many questions I've had for a long time.

[Hardik]

Thanks Joel !
I'd now just save the money and get a best badger.
Just started shaving and used wet shaving since the first time.
--
Hardik

[ERVARGASNY]

Thanks for this Review, I always thought my EJ Best Badger Brush was a Winner Most of the time, Seems you can go wrong with best Badger, and Yes Silver Tips for the weekend :o)

This is an Old Thread 2006, But it Still Rocks :thumbup: