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Today’s shave is a comparison to yesterday’s: same soap formula (different fragrance: Lavanille instead of Cologne Russe) but a badger brush (Simpson Emperor 3 Best) instead of a synthetic (Phoenix Artisan Aerolite). The comparison is to lather consistency and fineness.
The Simpson did a fine job, and the lather was excellent — but it was definitely outclassed by the lather the Aerolite synthetic produced. I don’t think it was the Aerolite in particular — the PA Star Craft has the same sort of synthetic know, and I imagine other synthetics — particular those of the Plissoft persuasion, like the RazoRock Keyhole or Bruce, or the Maggard Razors synthetics, or the Fine Classic — would produce the same result.
If I had used only a badger brush with this soap, I would have been quite satisfied, but I would not have known what I was missing. That sort of thing is why I am novelty-seeking, interested in trying new things. My attitude is pretty much the polar opposite of “If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it.” Mine is “It’s working fine. Can we make it even better? perhaps by rethinking the whole approach?”
Once well-lather, I went to work with my Goodfellas’ Smile Legione Slant razor — or, more accurately, with the Goodfellas’ Smile Legione Slant handle that holds a Parker Semi-Slant head. So far as I can tell, the two heads are identical. FWIW, the Goodfellas’ handle is much nicer IMO, but the price difference ($45 Goodfellas’ v. $33 Parker) may not be worth it for you, particularly if you have a spare handle on hand.
Blissful shave — it’s an excellent slant — ending with a good splash of Lavanille aftershave (with a squirt of Grooming Dept Hydrating Gel added), and I’m ready for a new day.
