Badger shaving brush

[Brett Luna]

I've been shaving with a brush and straight razor for a number of years and echo David's recommendations. As with tools, buying the best knot you can will reward you with better performance and durability. I also suggest considering what kind of shave soap you're likely to use. Those who lather with cake soap generally prefer a somewhat stiffer knot while users of shave cream often opt for a softer one, as do a lot of face latherers.

I've never encountered a significant odor with my brushes but I've never made my own. My current brush is a Rooney Style 1, size 2 in "Super Silvertip."

[Richard Line]

For the LV shaving brush, check item 88K80.02. I have one, but its still in its wraper, waiting for me to get the right piece of wood and figuring out how I want to make the handle without a lath.

[Casey Gooding]

That is a very good site. Lots of people in the shaving world purchase through them. If you want something cheaper, Woodcraft sells knots. They are OK, but not premium.

[Brett Luna]

Moses, I forgot to mention that I used to be active at the Badger & Blade forum and that many members who make or restore brushes do business with The Golden Nib.

You didn't mention what size or style of brush you had in mind but for reference, mine (shown here) is a medium-sized model that I consider a good all-around brush. It has enough backbone for cake soap but is still pleasantly soft for face lathering. It has a 24mm knot with a loft (height) of 50mm. I think the standard setting depth for knots is 10mm but folks sometimes set them deeper to stiffen the brush up a bit.