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What’s Horse Hair Like?

Gbsher

Gbsher

Shave Member
Hi Everyone,

I have never used a “horse hair” brush before. For those who have, can you tell me a bit about it?

Thanks much, Glenn
 
My opinion on the horse hair brush that I have is that it is too floppy and not enough backbone. Don't get me wrong it's a nice Brush just not for me.
I will put a better Knot in it at some point. Probably a 24 mm 70/30 mixed hair from Maggards. My favorite knots.
YMMV.


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I agree, more floppy than badger and most synthetics. I enjoy mine but it is best for softer soaps and bowl lathering (based on my technique and preferences). I don't know if all horse hair brushes are the same but mine is about 26mm with a noticeably higher loft (it looks long). I am sure the higher loft adds to the perception of it being floppy. Interestingly, I have a synthetic brush that I think it meant to mimic horse hair and I REALLY like it. The synthetic version has the softness without the added floppy.
 
I like them, they are kind of a middle road between a boar and a badger. It is skritchy at first, but not as much as a new boar and much more flexible. With more use the tips become much softer and THE SMELL of horse goes away pretty quickly.

I enjoy the two I have, but I just don't reach for them as much as I used to.
 
Haven’t ever used an actual horsehair brush before, but I have 2 synthetic versions and they are among my favorite knots. Both present as very soft and moderately floppy (having been set higher than a normal badger or synth knot might be). Very pleasant to use.
 
GearNoir said:
Haven’t ever used an actual horsehair brush before, but I have 2 synthetic versions and they are among my favorite knots. Both present as very soft and moderately floppy (having been set higher than a normal badger or synth knot might be). Very pleasant to use.
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Is one of the synthetics you mention the one with the rainbow handle? that is the one I am thinking of. It is a REALLY nice brush.
 
CBLindsay said:
Is one of the synthetics you mention the one with the rainbow handle? that is the one I am thinking of. It is a REALLY nice brush.
Click to expand...
I have the same one.
HMan said:
I think horse hair is one of the rare instances where synthetic is actually better.
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I agree. Synthetic horse is kinda right in the middle of synthetics. But far nicer than actual horse. I had a vie long horse and it was super soft and floppy. Really only good for lathering creams, and lot for loading off a soap.
 
I also have a vie long horse and it lacks any noticeable backbone. I don't use it with soaps or creams but do occasionally apply talc with it.
 
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