- u/wyze0ne posted on 2022-08-01 06:52:05-07:00 (Pacific Standard Time). Reddit Comment
Aug. 1, 2022 - Rawstere Hogust Day 1
Welp, here we are. Embarking on some challenges that I've never done before in all of my 7+ years of wetshaving. This should be a fun (or torturous) ride. I'm not sure yet. The fresh boar was stanky as fuck. The fresh GEM blade was a little harsh in the OCMM (that's right, OCMM). I had a couple small weepers, but nothing the Osma couldn't take care of. Stag was staggy as usual. It's a good thing I enjoy this scent :)
RawHoggin
(unboxing)
The brush feels pretty soft and kinda floppy right out of the box. As I already mentioned, as soon as it got wet, it stunk to high heaven. Zeniths (this is a rebranded Zenith) usually don't smell too bad in my previous experience. This one bucks that trend lol. No problems making a nice first pass lather, but thin lather on subsequent passes is where I've struggled with boar brushes before. This shave was no different. I'll just have to load more I guess. I'm not a fan of going back to the tub in between passes.
GEMsofWisdom
I'm no rookie to GEM razors, so the OCMM is a razor I've used before. That experience a few years ago was not good however and I swore it off. Fast forward to a few weeks ago where I picked up a Gen 1 and a Gen 2 for the handsome sum of $10 off Etsy. Neither of these are as harsh or aggressive as I remember. I think I just got better at shaving because truthfully, it doesn't feel aggressive at all. After using DEs like the R41, Stirling HA, or Yaqi Slant, this thing feels like a Tech. Okay, maybe not that mild, but you get the idea. I know that the fresh blade will smooth out and I hopefully won't end up with any weepers or irritation until the latter half of the month, but we shall see.
Stag spray vid
u/EldrormR u/Semaj3000 u/djundjila
- GEMsOfWisdom 2022
- RawHoggin' 2022
sotd.djudgement_invitations: [<DjudgementInvitation 14>, <DjudgementInvitation 2500>]
This SOTD was djudged by u/djundjila for GEMsOfWisdom 2022
This SOTD was djudged by u/EldrormR for RawHoggin' 2022
- u/wyze0ne posted on 2022-08-02 06:33:37-07:00 (Pacific Standard Time). Reddit Comment
Aug. 2, 2022 - Austere August Day 2
Day 2 in the books. I've mentioned this before, but I'm not a huge fan of the CFG soap base. It's virtually impossible to get a dense, shiny lather with this stuff. It always ends up light and fluffy. No matter how much water you add it never gets a sheen and just thins out so protection is lacking compared to something like Stirling or Milksteak. Regardless, the slickness is there so it's completely serviceable and I had zero issues with the OCMM today. The blade already smoothed out a little bit compared to yesterday so it was smooth sailing. The brush felt the same, but man I noticed the hog stench even more this time. Raw Hoggin' is the perfect name for this challenge lol.
Brush album
Stag spray
#RawHoggin #GEMsofWisdom
- GEMsOfWisdom 2022
- RawHoggin' 2022
sotd.djudgement_invitations: [<DjudgementInvitation 106>, <DjudgementInvitation 2550>]
This SOTD was djudged by u/EldrormR for GEMsOfWisdom 2022
This SOTD was djudged by u/djundjila for RawHoggin' 2022
- u/wyze0ne posted on 2022-08-03 06:47:53-07:00 (Pacific Standard Time). Reddit Comment
Aug. 3, 2022 - Raw Hoggin' the Stag - Day 3
#RawHoggin
The Texas Pig Stink Massacre is not going well. I realize it's only day 3, but the vile hog stench is still very present. Even the power of the mighty Stag isn't putting a dent in it. As for the brush itself, I haven't noticed it feeling any different as of yet. I have a hunch that even though this is made by Zenith, they cheap out on the ones made for RazoRock because this guy does not seem as dense as a Zenith I had before with basically the same knot.
#GEMsofWisdom
Still cruising along with the OCMM. I think I'm getting better with it already because the first two days left me with some minor irritation that lingered for a couple hours after the shave and today....nada. Face feels great. I'm holding out hope that the blade won't deteriorate too quickly and the shaves stay comfortable for the long run. I have taken a GEM blade to around 50 shaves before, but that was with the much milder and more forgiving Bullet Tip.
Brush album
Stag spray
- GEMsOfWisdom 2022
- RawHoggin' 2022
sotd.djudgement_invitations: [<DjudgementInvitation 174>, <DjudgementInvitation 2592>]
This SOTD was djudged by u/djundjila for GEMsOfWisdom 2022
This SOTD was djudged by u/djundjila for RawHoggin' 2022
- u/wyze0ne posted on 2022-08-04 05:44:49-07:00 (Pacific Standard Time). Reddit Comment
Aug. 4, 2022 - HogGEMStag Day 4
Gonna be short and sweet today. I have to finish packing and getting our camper ready for a weekend camping trip.
#RawHoggin
The brush might be feeling like it's getting softer? It's hard to tell at the beginning. At least today I didn't notice the foul pig ass odor as much. Things are looking up!
#GEMsofWisdom
Shaving with the OCMM is basically easy mode now. It will all boil down to a battle of attrition against the blade itself. I'm holding out hope that this blade was not made on a Friday at 4:30pm and that the fine bladesmiths over at Personna put the utmost care and attention into honing its edge.
On the Stag front I had kind of an weird interaction with my neighbor this morning. Right as I finished splashing my splash and spraying my EdP, the doorbell rings. He was bringing me an Amazon package that was mistakenly delivered to his house. I was trying to keep my distance to avoid the awkward "What is that smell?" LOL. I should just own it and be a proud Stagolyte I suppose. Such is the quest into Knighthood.
Brush album
Stag spray
- GEMsOfWisdom 2022
- RawHoggin' 2022
sotd.djudgement_invitations: [<DjudgementInvitation 220>, <DjudgementInvitation 2641>]
This SOTD was djudged by u/Semaj3000 for GEMsOfWisdom 2022
This SOTD was djudged by u/djundjila for RawHoggin' 2022
- u/wyze0ne posted on 2022-08-05 18:06:59-07:00 (Pacific Standard Time). Reddit Comment
This SOTD is part of the challenge
- GEMsOfWisdom 2022
- RawHoggin' 2022
sotd.djudgement_invitations: [<DjudgementInvitation 316>, <DjudgementInvitation 2657>]
This SOTD was djudged by u/djundjila for GEMsOfWisdom 2022
This SOTD was djudged by u/EldrormR for RawHoggin' 2022
- u/wyze0ne posted on 2022-08-06 11:09:17-07:00 (Pacific Standard Time). Reddit Comment
Aug. 6, 2022 - Stag Hoggin' at camp day 2 - AA Day 6
Day 2 of Austere August camping. At least today we're at a beach where the internet is working!
#RawHoggin
The brush continues it's softening journey. I swear I've gotten the best lathers from the Stag these last two days. I'm not sure if it's the brush breaking in or the different water.
#GEMsofWisdom
Another smooth shave with the OCMM. No complaints here. I haven't noticed a change in the blade much these last couple shaves. Well see what tomorrow brings.
Let me tell ya, you don't know Stag until you've tasted it. Obviously not intended and not advisable.
Brush day 6
Stag taste test
- GEMsOfWisdom 2022
- RawHoggin' 2022
sotd.djudgement_invitations: [<DjudgementInvitation 385>, <DjudgementInvitation 2713>]
This SOTD was djudged by u/djundjila for GEMsOfWisdom 2022
This SOTD was djudged by u/Semaj3000 for RawHoggin' 2022
- u/wyze0ne posted on 2022-08-07 19:36:53-07:00 (Pacific Standard Time). Reddit Comment
Aug. 7, 2022
Phew. Back home from the camping trip that almost killed my AA hopes and dreams. We were in an area that got zero Internet service so I had to go for a drive into town just to be able to post on Saturday! But alas I survived. I live to shave another (2) day(s). And that day was today.
#RawHoggin
Either this brush is starting to break in quickly or I've cracked some sort of code to get a dense shiny lather out of CFG without realizing it. My last three shaves really it has made great lathers. The stank is starting to dissipate as well. I'm thinking this will be well beyond broken in by the end of the month.
#GEMsofWisdom
This was an excellent shave with the OCMM. Probably the best yet. I forgot about how GEM blades in certain razors can hit their stride at around 7-10 uses and just deliver super smooth close and comfortable shaves for a while after that. I think I've hit that point for this blade.
Brush day 7
Stag spray
- GEMsOfWisdom 2022
- RawHoggin' 2022
sotd.djudgement_invitations: [<DjudgementInvitation 454>, <DjudgementInvitation 2737>]
This SOTD was djudged by u/EldrormR for GEMsOfWisdom 2022
This SOTD was djudged by u/EldrormR for RawHoggin' 2022
- u/wyze0ne posted on 2022-08-08 07:02:57-07:00 (Pacific Standard Time). Reddit Comment
Aug. 8, 2022 - Keep calm and Stag on - Austere August Day 8
Everything is just clicking right now and I'm getting some great shaves. I'm trying not to pay attention to the drawer full of other soaps and shelves lined with razors and brushes, but I know they're getting restless.
#RawHoggin
I'm really starting to enjoy this brush which is something I don't think I've ever said about a boar brush. I came into this with the boar-- mentality just wanting to challenge myself with something different to re-ignite my thrill for the hobby. I'd say it's working temporarily.
#GEMsofWisdom
Another smooth, close, and comfortable shave. Not much else to note today. I'm getting good with this thing!
Brush album
Stag sprays
- GEMsOfWisdom 2022
- RawHoggin' 2022
sotd.djudgement_invitations: [<DjudgementInvitation 512>, <DjudgementInvitation 2806>]
This SOTD was djudged by u/Semaj3000 for GEMsOfWisdom 2022
This SOTD was djudged by u/djundjila for RawHoggin' 2022
- u/wyze0ne posted on 2022-08-09 06:39:21-07:00 (Pacific Standard Time). Reddit Comment
Aug. 9, 2022 - RHOCMMSF - Austere August Day 9
Another day, another raw hoggin' micromatic Stagfest. I gotta be honest, this is getting boring, but on the other side of the coin it's nice to not have to choose anything. Just get busy with the stuff that's already sitting out on the counter.
#RawHoggin
Well, I think 90% of the barnyard pig ass aroma is pretty much gone and replaced with the pleasing scent of smoky leather and gasoline. I have noticed the tips getting softer and my lathers coming together much faster now. I'll have to break out a magnifying glass and see if the tips are starting to split.
#GEMsofWisdom
Today was not as smooth as my previous two or three shaves, but I'm not ready to say it's the blade stating to decline. I think my lather just wasn't as top notch. I wish I had more to say regarding this razor, but I'm not having any issues with it or anything to work through (nicks, weepers, irritation). It's easy to use and I'm getting nice shaves.
Brush album
Stag sprays
- GEMsOfWisdom 2022
- RawHoggin' 2022
sotd.djudgement_invitations: [<DjudgementInvitation 2846>, <DjudgementInvitation 603>]
This SOTD was djudged by u/EldrormR for RawHoggin' 2022
This SOTD was djudged by u/Semaj3000 for GEMsOfWisdom 2022
- u/wyze0ne posted on 2022-08-10 06:38:38-07:00 (Pacific Standard Time). Reddit Comment
Aug. 10, 2022 - STAGgering along - Austere August Day 10
I can't say I've gotten completely tired of the Stag just yet even though it's truly better suited for fall weather to me. Strangely enough, my wife and daughter have not made any comments about it either. Our bathroom just reeks of it 24/7 lol.
#RawHoggin
The brush is really coming into its own with a nice feeling of scrub and no scritch really at all. I can only detect a hint of raw hog stank if I put the brush right up to the sniffer with it splayed out. Pretty good progress for only 10 shaves.
#GEMsofWisdom
So today I could feel the blade start to tug a little bit. I flipped the blade, but I don't think that has anything to do with it so I might try palm stropping tomorrow. I've really dialed in the the best way to grip and shave with this razor though. In the words of our dearly departed Ruds (RIP), this has really become a "cruise control" razor for me. Despite the slight tugging a BBS was achieved.
Brush album
Stag sprays
- GEMsOfWisdom 2022
- RawHoggin' 2022
sotd.djudgement_invitations: [<DjudgementInvitation 657>, <DjudgementInvitation 2889>]
This SOTD was djudged by u/djundjila for GEMsOfWisdom 2022
This SOTD was djudged by u/djundjila for RawHoggin' 2022
- u/wyze0ne posted on 2022-08-11 07:07:08-07:00 (Pacific Standard Time). Reddit Comment
Aug. 11, 2022 - The Hog is raw no longer - Austere August Day 11
Boredom is setting in, but imma keep on chugging along. Knighthood or death!
#RawHoggin
I think the stink is finally gone. The only stink left is that of the glorious Stag. I normally just paint the lather on for my second or third passes, but today I opted to do some scrubbing motions to really test the softness of the knot. I am pleasantly surprised with the progress. This is probably the softest boar knot I've ever experienced. Good stuff.
#GEMsofWisdom
So I went with the palm strop technique before my shave and can't say it made a damn bit of difference compared to yesterday. I'm just gonna let it ride from here on out. I'm finding that like many other things, if I think about how I'm doing something while I'm doing it leads to errors or results that aren't as good. I'm much better if I just let it flow and shave by feel. When I think about how I'm holding the razor or tinkering with angles and such I usually end up with some missed stubble or lingering irritation.
Brush album
Stag sprays
- GEMsOfWisdom 2022
- RawHoggin' 2022
sotd.djudgement_invitations: [<DjudgementInvitation 734>, <DjudgementInvitation 2927>]
This SOTD was djudged by u/djundjila for GEMsOfWisdom 2022
This SOTD was djudged by u/djundjila for RawHoggin' 2022
- u/wyze0ne posted on 2022-08-12 06:36:47-07:00 (Pacific Standard Time). Reddit Comment
Aug. 12, 2022 - Staghog Day - Austere August Day 12
SOTD pic
#RawHoggin
Another quick and easy lather with the hog. I know I said yesterday or the day before that the putrid stench of pig shit was completely gone from this knot, but I thought I detected a faint hint of it today. Or maybe it was the Stag. I don't know. The tips continue to split and soften though so that's good.
#GEMsofWisdom
Definitely some tugging going on especially on the mustache area. Aside form that another smooth easy shave with minimal sting from the alum and no lingering irritation to speak of. Not quite BBS on my neck today, but that's ok.
Brush album
Stag sprays
- GEMsOfWisdom 2022
- RawHoggin' 2022
sotd.djudgement_invitations: [<DjudgementInvitation 776>, <DjudgementInvitation 2974>]
This SOTD was djudged by u/djundjila for GEMsOfWisdom 2022
This SOTD was djudged by u/djundjila for RawHoggin' 2022
- u/wyze0ne posted on 2022-08-13 06:58:51-07:00 (Pacific Standard Time). Reddit Comment
Aug. 13, 2022 - Birthday Shave - Austere August Day 13
Well, it kinda sucks not being able to shave with whatever I want on my birthday, but these are the type of sacrifices we make in the name of completing challenges we set out to accomplish. I slightly overhydrated the lather too soon, but I was able to compensate with a little extra loading. The lather seemed to come together nicely on my face, but for some reason it didn't seem as slick as usual.
#RawHoggin
Brush was real nice today. I really think the boar stink is officially gone now and it's pretty damn soft too.
#GEMsofWisdom
Ok so I'm not sure if it was the lather or if this blade is on a rapid decline because there was definitely some tugging. Still got a close shave with no cuts or irritation though. Just a bit of a rough road to get there. I hope it was just a lather issue because I did deviate from my normal routine by starting out with more water in the brush.
Brush album
Stag sprays
- GEMsOfWisdom 2022
- RawHoggin' 2022
sotd.djudgement_invitations: [<DjudgementInvitation 856>, <DjudgementInvitation 3015>]
This SOTD was djudged by u/Semaj3000 for GEMsOfWisdom 2022
This SOTD was djudged by u/EldrormR for RawHoggin' 2022
- u/wyze0ne posted on 2022-08-14 07:22:00-07:00 (Pacific Standard Time). Reddit Comment
Aug. 14, 2022 - Smooth Stagging - Austere August Day 14
So no tugging today. Hmmm. My lather must have been shit yesterday. This was an excellent shave.
#RawHoggin
Nothing new to report with the brush. Stink is gone. It's soft and makes a quick lather. I'm diggin' it.
#GEMsofWisdom
As I already mentioned, it was a smooth shave with no tugging and zero sting from the alum. I didn't think that would ever be possible with this razor, but here we are. I think I've pretty much mastered this thing only halfway through the month.
Brush album
Stag sprays
- GEMsOfWisdom 2022
- RawHoggin' 2022
sotd.djudgement_invitations: [<DjudgementInvitation 925>, <DjudgementInvitation 3055>]
This SOTD was djudged by u/Semaj3000 for GEMsOfWisdom 2022
This SOTD was djudged by u/Semaj3000 for RawHoggin' 2022
- u/wyze0ne posted on 2022-08-15 05:48:39-07:00 (Pacific Standard Time). Reddit Comment
Aug. 15, 2022 - Half way home - Austere August Day 15
Well, here we are at the half way point. That's it??? It seems like it's been a lot longer than that...
#RawHoggin
Brush good.
#GEMsofWisdom
Razor good. Blade is starting to show its age I guess. Still not bad in the grand scheme of things. I've used DE blades that felt far worse on their first and second shaves.
Brush album
Stag sprays - I actually did 5 sprays today because I did a video with 2 first then I realized it's week 3 so I had to do another video lol.
- GEMsOfWisdom 2022
- RawHoggin' 2022
sotd.djudgement_invitations: [<DjudgementInvitation 973>, <DjudgementInvitation 3092>]
This SOTD was djudged by u/Semaj3000 for GEMsOfWisdom 2022
This SOTD was djudged by u/Semaj3000 for RawHoggin' 2022
- u/wyze0ne posted on 2022-08-16 06:13:02-07:00 (Pacific Standard Time). Reddit Comment
Aug. 16, 2022 - Another Boar-ing Stag shave - Austere August Day 16
I am (or already have) run out of things to say about the same fucking shave every day. It's gotten to the point where I've thought about giving up and just using whatever the hell I want, but no. I must soldier on. I didn't come this far to throw in the towel now.
#RawHoggin
I think I've come around on boar brushes. At least this one. I'm enjoying it and I'm actually excited about the sub exclusive brush that is going down. I never ever would have said this a couple months ago. I never had the discipline to fully break one in before or the ones I had just weren't as good as this one. I'm curious to see how this brush will perform with other soaps now. The lather it makes with CFG is actually really good now. Much better than at the beginning of the month.
#GEMsofWisdom
Still ch(t)ugging along. I have a feeling that the last week or so of shaves is gonna be rough af. That is no fault of the razor though. I'm enjoying the shaves but also excited to get back to my DEs. GEMlyfe exclusively isn't for me.
Brush album
Stag sprays
- GEMsOfWisdom 2022
- RawHoggin' 2022
sotd.djudgement_invitations: [<DjudgementInvitation 3131>, <DjudgementInvitation 1064>]
This SOTD was djudged by u/djundjila for RawHoggin' 2022
This SOTD was djudged by u/djundjila for GEMsOfWisdom 2022
- u/wyze0ne posted on 2022-08-17 11:18:23-07:00 (Pacific Standard Time). Reddit Comment
This SOTD is part of the challenge
- GEMsOfWisdom 2022
- RawHoggin' 2022
sotd.djudgement_invitations: [<DjudgementInvitation 1135>, <DjudgementInvitation 3166>]
This SOTD was djudged by u/EldrormR for GEMsOfWisdom 2022
This SOTD was djudged by u/djundjila for RawHoggin' 2022
- u/wyze0ne posted on 2022-08-18 05:53:52-07:00 (Pacific Standard Time). Reddit Comment
Aug. 18, 2022 - Flight of the Stagvigator - Austere August Day 18
I'm leaving on a jet plane to Denver in a few hours. I hope the other passengers like the scent of gasoline, leather, and burning rubber. :D
#RawHoggin
One thing I've noticed about this brush is that it hasn't shed a single hair. I have plucked out a couple dark hairs that I saw, but that's it. It feels great on my face and makes a really quick lather. The stank is long gone too. This is turning into a really nice $15 brush.
#GEMsofWisdom
Just as a challenge to myself today I was seeing how fast I could shave with the OCMM and not get cut lol. You may be thinking that it's madness to try that with a blade that has 18 shaves under its belt, but it was just fine. No cuts or irritation. For some reason it felt smoother than some previous days. I'm really comfortable shaving with this razor now. Cruise control ------->>>
Brush album
Stag sprays
- GEMsOfWisdom 2022
- RawHoggin' 2022
sotd.djudgement_invitations: [<DjudgementInvitation 1181>, <DjudgementInvitation 3214>]
This SOTD was djudged by u/djundjila for GEMsOfWisdom 2022
This SOTD was djudged by u/EldrormR for RawHoggin' 2022
- u/wyze0ne posted on 2022-08-19 09:00:25-07:00 (Pacific Standard Time). Reddit Comment
Aug. 19, 2022 - Travelling Stag shave feat. the not-so-raw hog and the OCMM
So imgur is a flaming fucking pile of shit so I won't be able to upload my pics/video until later (hopefully). Another nice shave with the eternal Stag/boar/OCMM combo. It's funny how auto pilot your shaves become when you're not constantly changing up every component.
#RawHoggin
I think the tips are splitting more and more with every shave, but I can't perceive it being any softer.
#GEMsofWisdom
I love how easy mode shaving with this razor is now, but I'm getting really bored with it. It's still giving me great results though even with a bit of tugging in some areas.
Brush Day 19
Stag sprays
EDIT: Pics and vid finally uploaded in a roundabout way...
- GEMsOfWisdom 2022
- RawHoggin' 2022
sotd.djudgement_invitations: [<DjudgementInvitation 1461>, <DjudgementInvitation 3240>]
This SOTD was djudged by u/Semaj3000 for GEMsOfWisdom 2022
This SOTD was djudged by u/Semaj3000 for RawHoggin' 2022
- u/wyze0ne posted on 2022-08-20 08:34:39-07:00 (Pacific Standard Time). Reddit Comment
Aug. 20, 2022 - Taking life by the antlers - Austere August Day 20
20 days straight off the same shave. I went longer with Beaudelaire a couple years ago but ran out of soap by day 26 or so. That's not gonna happen this time so it will be the longest streak of shaving daily with the same thing that I've ever done.
#RawHoggin
The thing I used to hate about boars the most was that second and third pass lathers we're always thin. This brush started out like that but it's not an issue anymore. I'm still excited to see how it lathers other soaps.
#GEMsofWisdom
tugging intensifies
Still a nice shave in the end.
Brush day 20
Stag sprays
- GEMsOfWisdom 2022
- RawHoggin' 2022
sotd.djudgement_invitations: [<DjudgementInvitation 1519>, <DjudgementInvitation 3287>]
This SOTD was djudged by u/djundjila for GEMsOfWisdom 2022
This SOTD was djudged by u/EldrormR for RawHoggin' 2022
- u/wyze0ne posted on 2022-08-21 13:06:29-07:00 (Pacific Standard Time). Reddit Comment
Aug. 21, 2022 - 21 Days in the Hole - Austere August Day 21
Quick two pass shave. Lather came together really fast. Stag is....well, still Stag. I'm really surprised my wife hasn't said anything about getting sick of it lol.
#RawHoggin
I don't know what else I can say about this brush. Yeah, it's a little floppy, but I don't mind it at all. The loft could be shorter I guess. It lost a couple hairs today.
#GEMsofWisdom
The blade is well past its prime, but the aggressive nature of the razor keeps giving me close shaves regardless. I just need to keep powering through the tugginess and I'll be alright.
Brush day 21
Stag sprays
- GEMsOfWisdom 2022
- RawHoggin' 2022
sotd.djudgement_invitations: [<DjudgementInvitation 1602>, <DjudgementInvitation 3310>]
This SOTD was djudged by u/Semaj3000 for GEMsOfWisdom 2022
This SOTD was djudged by u/djundjila for RawHoggin' 2022
- u/wyze0ne posted on 2022-08-22 23:10:49-07:00 (Pacific Standard Time). Reddit Comment
This SOTD is part of the challenge
- GEMsOfWisdom 2022
- RawHoggin' 2022
sotd.djudgement_invitations: [<DjudgementInvitation 1665>, <DjudgementInvitation 3330>]
This SOTD was djudged by u/Semaj3000 for GEMsOfWisdom 2022
This SOTD was djudged by u/EldrormR for RawHoggin' 2022
- u/wyze0ne posted on 2022-08-23 09:39:51-07:00 (Pacific Standard Time). Reddit Comment
Aug. 23, 2022 - The Stag-a-thon Continues - Austere August Day 23
I take back everything bad that I said about Chiseled Face soaps. I've been getting some top tier lathers with this broken in boar brush. It's like they were made for each other. I don't know what it is about my badger brushes that prevent me from results like this.
#RawHoggin
See above. Really enjoying this brush/soap combo at this point in the month. I'm not sure how much more this brush can be broken in, but it will have at least 31 uses on it before I choose something else lol.
#GEMsofWisdom
It's been an interesting ride with this blade. I've had some tuggy feeling shaves in recent days, but today was super smooth with 100% 0 tugging. What gives?? The razor though is performing beautifully. Another great shave today with zero sting from the alum. I think I've mastered this thing.
Brush Day 23
Stag sprays
- GEMsOfWisdom 2022
- RawHoggin' 2022
sotd.djudgement_invitations: [<DjudgementInvitation 1770>, <DjudgementInvitation 3387>]
This SOTD was djudged by u/EldrormR for GEMsOfWisdom 2022
This SOTD was djudged by u/djundjila for RawHoggin' 2022
- u/wyze0ne posted on 2022-08-24 10:58:25-07:00 (Pacific Standard Time). Reddit Comment
This SOTD is part of the challenge
- GEMsOfWisdom 2022
- RawHoggin' 2022
sotd.djudgement_invitations: [<DjudgementInvitation 1832>, <DjudgementInvitation 3422>]
This SOTD was djudged by u/djundjila for GEMsOfWisdom 2022
This SOTD was djudged by u/Semaj3000 for RawHoggin' 2022
- u/wyze0ne posted on 2022-08-25 10:08:46-07:00 (Pacific Standard Time). Reddit Comment
Aug. 25, 2022 - 6 more - Austere August Day 25
All Stagged up and ready to board a plane back home. It's been an awesome week in Denver and I don't want to go back to work.
#RawHoggin
Nothing new to report about the brush. It's just a really nice lather machine at this point.
#GEMsofWisdom
Another smooth shave from this enigma of a blade. Razor is great though. No sting from the alum once again.
Brush Day 25
Stag sprays
- GEMsOfWisdom 2022
- RawHoggin' 2022
sotd.djudgement_invitations: [<DjudgementInvitation 1906>, <DjudgementInvitation 3461>]
This SOTD was djudged by u/EldrormR for GEMsOfWisdom 2022
This SOTD was djudged by u/Semaj3000 for RawHoggin' 2022
- u/wyze0ne posted on 2022-08-26 06:47:26-07:00 (Pacific Standard Time). Reddit Comment
Aug. 26, 2022 - Are we there yet?? - Austere August Day 26
Another day, another Stag/boar/OCMM shave...
#RawHoggin
Using this brush has become second nature to me. It makes me wonder what kind of adjustments I'll have to make when I finally get to start using my other brushes.
#GEMsofWisdom
Yet another smooth, tug free shave. Odd because it seems like it should be going in the other direction. The shaves are not as close as they used to be however. A fresh blade would feel amazing right now I bet.
Brush Day 26
Stag sprays
- GEMsOfWisdom 2022
- RawHoggin' 2022
sotd.djudgement_invitations: [<DjudgementInvitation 3533>, <DjudgementInvitation 3611>]
This SOTD was djudged by u/EldrormR for GEMsOfWisdom 2022
This SOTD was djudged by u/djundjila for RawHoggin' 2022
- u/wyze0ne posted on 2022-08-27 08:14:56-07:00 (Pacific Standard Time). Reddit Comment
Aug. 27, 2022 - Stag Stack Saturday - Austere August Day 27
I can see the light at the end of the tunnel and I'm really getting the itch to use something else -_-
4 MORE DAYS
#RawHoggin
This brush is pillow soft now and a real pleasure to use. I'm still excited to get back to my badgers though.
#GEMsofWisdom
My lather was a little thin today so I think that's why it felt tuggier than yesterday. I find myself using short, quick buffing strokes when the shave feels like this. It seems to be more effective with a dull blade and today's results bear that out. A BBS finish if I do say so myself.
Brush Day 27 - I gave up on the album since I was away from a desktop or laptop for a week. The imgur mobile app is so poorly designed that you can't add pics to an album on it, only on an actual computer. So stupid.
Stag sprays
- GEMsOfWisdom 2022
- RawHoggin' 2022
sotd.djudgement_invitations: [<DjudgementInvitation 3672>, <DjudgementInvitation 3752>]
This SOTD was djudged by u/EldrormR for GEMsOfWisdom 2022
This SOTD was djudged by u/EldrormR for RawHoggin' 2022
- u/wyze0ne posted on 2022-08-28 19:10:46-07:00 (Pacific Standard Time). Reddit Comment
Aug. 28, 2022 - Procrastagnation - Austere August Day 28
Today was such a fucked up day. I'm surprised I was even able to get my shave in.
#RawHoggin
No change in the brush. Good lather, but I could have loaded more soap this go round. I was in a hurry to just get it done and relax though.
#GEMsofWisdom
I could really feel the dullness of the blade during this shave. It just didn't want to cut today. It's done, but we'll ride it out for three more shaves at least.
Brush Day 28
Stag sprays
- GEMsOfWisdom 2022
- RawHoggin' 2022
sotd.djudgement_invitations: [<DjudgementInvitation 3858>, <DjudgementInvitation 3786>]
This SOTD was djudged by u/EldrormR for RawHoggin' 2022
This SOTD was djudged by u/djundjila for GEMsOfWisdom 2022
- u/wyze0ne posted on 2022-08-29 06:43:26-07:00 (Pacific Standard Time). Reddit Comment
Aug. 29, 2022 - The End is Nigh - Austere August Day 29
Not much shaving to be done today since I just shaved last night, but I still did the minimum requirement of two passes. I'm not sure it's any closer than when I started to be honest lol.
#RawHoggin
I've not noticed any changes in the brush for quite a while so I'm thinking this bad boy is at it's full potential.
#GEMsofWisdom
It's safe to say I've mastered this razor and it doesn't live up to its scary/aggressive nature that it previously had for me.
Brush Day 29
Stag sprays
- GEMsOfWisdom 2022
- RawHoggin' 2022
sotd.djudgement_invitations: [<DjudgementInvitation 3940>, <DjudgementInvitation 4016>]
This SOTD was djudged by u/djundjila for GEMsOfWisdom 2022
This SOTD was djudged by u/djundjila for RawHoggin' 2022
- u/wyze0ne posted on 2022-08-30 07:59:43-07:00 (Pacific Standard Time). Reddit Comment
Aug. 30, 2022 - ONE. MORE. DAY. - Austere August Day 30
Underloaded like a mofo today for some reason. It's weird because I was wanting to take my time and have a really nice lather. I had an appointment with a plumber to have a drain snaked and didn't have to be to work on time. Oh well. I still had a decent shave, but the desire to use something different has never been stronger.
#RawHoggin
Like I said, thin lather today but that's not the brush's fault. I like this brush quite a bit. I'm excited to get back to my badgers though.
#GEMsofWisdom
I flipped the blade today out of boredom. It didn't make a difference. Still a little tuggy, but smooth enough. I might try and take this blade to 100 just for shits and giggles. I'm not sure if it would fare as well in a milder GEM razor or not. I'll give it a try.
Brush Day 30
Stag sprays
- GEMsOfWisdom 2022
- RawHoggin' 2022
sotd.djudgement_invitations: [<DjudgementInvitation 4133>, <DjudgementInvitation 4060>]
This SOTD was djudged by u/EldrormR for RawHoggin' 2022
This SOTD was djudged by u/Semaj3000 for GEMsOfWisdom 2022
- u/wyze0ne posted on 2022-08-31 08:18:22-07:00 (Pacific Standard Time). Reddit Comment
Aug. 31, 2022 - The Last Hurrah - Austere August Day 31
Well here we are. Finally at the end of the AA road. It feels good to be done and I don't think I'll ever be doing this again. I have far too many other soaps and hardware that need to be used which I'm sure is the case with all of us. Looking back I'm glad that I powered through and completed all of the challenges I set out to do though. It's been a tough and eye opening experience. One of the best take-aways is my changed opinion of Chiseled Face soaps. I was never really impressed with the base until I started getting these stellar lathers with my new fully broken in boar brush. They are like a match made in heaven. I'm curious to see if I can replicate them with my badger brushes. It won't be with the Stag though because that's getting put away for a while lol. I'm happy to join the ranks of the Knights however!
#RawHoggin
Before I decided to partake in this challenge I was not a fan of boar brushes at all. There were various reasons for this which I won't get into for the sake of brevity, but overall I just never had great experiences with them or the patience to fully break one in. This month has changed all of that and has opened my eyes to the reality that boar brushes can be great lathering tools if you can stick with them until they get good. This is an awesome brush now and I'm thinking of pulling the knot and putting it into a new handle I just picked up.
#GEMsofWisdom
The same goes for this razor. The only other time I had used it was a few times back in probably 2016 (?). It was a harsh and unforgiving experience and I hated the thing. I think most of the 180 degree change in my opinion can be attributed to the fact that I'm just a lot better at shaving now than I was back then. It's moderately aggressive and very efficient, but it never felt harsh to me this time around. I can confidently say that I've mastered the OCMM (yeah, I said it) and I can shave with it on autopilot with no nicks, cuts, weepers, or nary a hint of irritation. Hell, the alum doesn't even sting anymore. I can't even say that about my favorite and well used DE, the 0.84 Game Changer.
Brush Day 31
The last Stag sprays for a loooooong time
- GEMsOfWisdom 2022
- RawHoggin' 2022
sotd.djudgement_invitations: [<DjudgementInvitation 4271>, <DjudgementInvitation 4191>]
This SOTD was djudged by u/EldrormR for RawHoggin' 2022
This SOTD was djudged by u/Semaj3000 for GEMsOfWisdom 2022