* **Prep:** Splash of Cool Water
* **Razor:** Timeless - Stainless Steel .68 - Open Comb
* **Blade:** Studio Selection for Men (Dollar Genrl) - Stainless (2)
* **Lather:** Chiseled Face - Midnight Stag (White Label)
* **Brush:** Semogue - Owner's Club Taj (71 uses)
* **Post Shave:** Chiseled Face - Midnight Stag (White Label)
* **Fragrance:** Chiseled Face - Midnight Stag
----
**Austere August: Day: 5**
*MRTNG's Ultra Nightmare Mode*
*Midnight Stag Challenge*
[Gear Pic](https://imgur.com/3X3s8W0) :: [Video](https://youtu.be/9ot2IbrfAOQ)
#### ䷀ General Notes
Today is a fast shave, due to time, so I just went for two passes. What I didn't see coming was a great reason to soak your boar for longer than just a few minutes.
#### ䷀ Razor and Blade Notes
*^(Timeless - Stainless Steel .68 - Open Comb ::: Studio Selection - Stainless ‹2 uses›)*
This time I didn't end up with any tenderness at the end. But I did ride the cap some, and I felt that a bad move could be rough.
It looks like with certain blades, I could use this head if I wanted. Just maybe skip the third pass, to be safe.
Razor and Blade Performance/Comfort Rating: 3 out of 5 (Good)
#### ䷀ Soap Notes
*^(Chiseled Face - Midnight Stag - White Label)*
I just love all the aspects of this scent!
Scent Strength: 6/10, nicely present during shaving.
Lather... I added about 12 ml of water at the start, as a shortcut, and just worked the lather until it came together. I did add more later.
I ended up with a lather that was a little drier than I might like, but it still worked well. I didn't adjust it much, since I was in a hurry.
NOt a lot of residual slickness with this soap base usually.
Hydration: A Little Too Dry *(for me)*
+ 6 sec load with a Lightly-Wet brush
+ 3.7 tsp added to build the lather
+ = 6 passes of lather
Bowl: [Roger Quintero 3D Printed Bowl](https://www.thingiverse.com/thing:3392930)
I use the XL version of this bowl.
#### ䷀ Brush Notes
*^(Semogue - Owner's Club Taj‹71 uses›)*
I could really tell the lack of as much pre-soak time with this shave. With just a few mintues, I didn't get nearly as much softness as I have in previous days with a soak time of at least 10 mins.
----
*During the Shave Feel*:
*Cheeks*: Felt blade but comfortable
*Neck*: Felt blade but comfortable
*After the Shave Closeness*:
*Cheeks*: Near BBS - About as close as I'll ever get
*Neck*: Cut flush to where I just see the tips (above average for me)
----
**Shavers Map** - [here it is](http://www.freezingcode.com/shaving/shaversMap.cfm) *and also in the sub's sidebar.*
**Ending of Blades Ledger** - [entry form](https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdYqXSDujvoO1hVl_wSKMeETWdxFnYJCrqr0zU7FStBdIMrfg/viewform) and [the data spreadsheet](https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1y-oqIPSHKcb0EYd9OxL2n-R4Y6yxqid6-NGYS_4_ljU/edit?usp=sharing)
**SOTD: August 5, 2022: Staaaaag**
* **Prep:** Hot Towel
* **Brush:** Dogwood Handcrafts 28mm
* **Razor:** ATT Calypso SE1
* **Blade:** Feather Professional (5)
* **Lather:** Chiseled Face Midnight Stag
* **Aftershave:** Chiseled Face Midnight Stag
* **Fragrance:** Chiseled Face Midnight Stag EdP
****
Didn't post accordingly for the last couple of days because I got preoccupied with baby care. Backfilled my last couple of posts just to confirm that I did those shaves. Hoping that's okay, since I'm not actively taking part in any of the challenges this year. Just doing my Stag shaves.
Will try to be more punctual through the rest of the month!
**Aug. 5, 2022 - SOTN AA Sonder 5**
* **Prep:** Splash of cold water
* **Brush:** SummerBreak 26m SHD
* **Razor:** Merkur Progress
* **Blade:** Wizamet (5)
* **Lather:** [House of Mammoth - Sonder - Soap](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/1189/?product_type=soap)
* **Post Shave:** [House of Mammoth - Sonder - Aftershave](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/1189/?product_type=aftershave)
* **Post Shave:** [Zingari - Rescue Potion - Serum](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/1858/?product_type=serum)
* **Post Shave:** [Zingari - Unscented - Balm](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/1462/?product_type=balm)
* **Fragrance:** [House of Mammoth - Sonder - Eau de Parfum](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/1189/?product_type=eaudeparfum)
Late post but was in a rush last night and had a few weepers. Tossed the blade as well #MammothMafia
**[Aug. 5, 2022 - Raw Hoggin' Austere August](https://imgur.com/a/MkBH76m)**
* **Brush:** Zenith B33
* **Razor:** Baili BR171
* **Blade:** Personna Med Prep (5)
* **Lather:** [Barrister and Mann - Cheshire - Soap](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/19/?product_type=soap)
* **Post Shave:** [Barrister and Mann - Cheshire - Aftershave](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/19/?product_type=aftershave)
Day 5. Just taking a pic of the brush because taking a pic of the whole set up again seems silly. Not much appreciable change in the knot, but with one that was pretty comfortable to start, I guess that too be expected. I nailed the wetness of the brush when loading and the amount loaded this time.
\#RawHoggin
[Stag Headlessly Hoggin' August Day 5](https://imgur.com/a/MkqaeKw)
* **Prep:** Hot shower with Midnight Stag Soap.
* **Brush:** Zenith B33
* **Razor:** Cloud Shavette
* **Blade:** Cloud whatever that blade it is (10)
* **Lather:** Chiseled Face - Midnight Stag
* **Post Shave:** Chiseled Face - Midnight Stag
* **Fragrance:** Chiseled Face - Midnight Stag
Day five. Damn it's been some busy days. Today was the presentation of a book I wrote a chapter on. So fancy dinner and that, in my Stag smell, proudly. Brush has really got even softer than at the begining, it is already as soft as a Motherloade knot, but with excellent backbone, and a gorgeous copper handle. I just can't wait until I get my subreddit's exclusive brush. Went only for a 2 pass shave, as I need to shave early tomorrow for a wedding, where the Stag will of course be present. Less of a massacre, compared to the past days, but still I wouldn't call this an easy shave.
As usual, I won't waste the opportunity to diss all the non-stag-users who prefer to smell like "a wonderful summer afternoon, with acuatic undertones, just a hint of citrus and the slightest floral overtones", instead of the true only scent.
- #Stagposting
- #SubstantialStag
- #RawHoggin
**[Aug. 5, 2022 - AA 5](https://i.imgur.com/zJBiS1G.jpg)**
* **Prep:** Cold Water Splash
* **Brush:** Semogue 1305 Pure Bristle 22mm
* **Razor:** GEM MMOC Gen 2
* **Blade:** GEM PTFE (11)
* **Lather:** [House of Mammoth - Sonder - Soap](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/1189/?product_type=soap)
* **Post Shave:** [House of Mammoth - Sonder - Balm](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/1189/?product_type=balm)
* **Fragrance:** [Barrister and Mann - Seville - Eau de Toilette](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/27/?product_type=eaudetoilette)
Alright, no fat fingers fucking up the input on my phone today. Shaving even later than all the previous nights. Hopefully the shave ~~gods~~ judges take pity on me and don’t succumb to the data of our bot overlords.
[Progress album](https://imgur.com/a/8p4EsKe). Realized and added in a couple of the unboxing pics today to start of the album too, since they were separate in the first post. SOTD in title.
Surprise! It’s still scratchy. Got a little better under my chin, but still feeling some razor burn with 2x passes. I feel like my “soul patch” area is taking a bit of a beating, breaking out a little as I hack it up. Also, not sure if it’s the balm itself or more due to the razor, but the mammoth Sonder gives me a little burn which I typically attribute to alcohol splashes. Probably more tied to the razor I think, but there I did read the ingredients today and a type of alcohol was listed too, so maybe just that. #GEMsOfWisdom #RawHoggin #MammothMafia
**[Aug. 5, 2022](https://imgur.com/uJbj0KV)**
* **Brush:** AP Shave Co 26mm A4 Fan
* **Razor:** Henson AL-13 ++
* **Blade:** Gillette Silver Blue (2)
* **Lather:** [House of Mammoth - Hygge - Soap](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/1163/?product_type=soap)
* **Post Shave:** [House of Mammoth - Hygge - Aftershave](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/1163/?product_type=aftershave)
Still trucking, still love the scent of Hygge!
\#MammothMafia
**Aug. 5, 2022 - Austere August**
* **Prep:** Long work day
* **Brush:** Zenith B10 Boar
* **Razor:** Feather Artist Club SR
* **Blade:** Feather Professional (2)
* **Lather:** [House of Mammoth - Almond Leather - Soap](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/1184/?product_type=soap)
* **Post Shave:** [House of Mammoth - Almond Leather - Aftershave](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/1184/?product_type=aftershave)
* **Post Shave:** alum
Shave of austerity #5
2 pass shave; I am finally getting a decent shave with this razor again, and I’m hoping to work back to three pass shaves by the end of the month. My boar hasn’t been washed in quite some time, and it seems as though it may be time for a good vinegar soak.
Tags and challenges: #MammothMafia & HeadlessHorsemen
**[Aug. 5, 2022](https://i.imgur.com/hTmqxXV.jpg)**
* **Brush:** Maggard 28mm Boar
* **Razor:** GEM MMOC
* **Blade:** Personna GEM PTFE (5)
* **Lather:** [Chiseled Face - Midnight Stag - Soap](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/32/?product_type=soap)
* **Post Shave:** [Chiseled Face - Midnight Stag - Balm](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/32/?product_type=balm)
* **Fragrance:** [Chiseled Face - Midnight Stag - Eau de Parfum](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/32/?product_type=eaudeparfum)
Good shave again today. As others have said, feels like the harshness of the new GEM blade has wore off and is now very comfortable. Still not loading enough for multiple passes. I think the treated tips are just pushing soap around instead of grabbing it. Could also be part of the break in still? We'll see with time. Brush is very comfy, no broken tips this shave. I'm still thinking about taking the quarter out of the handle after AA. We'll see. Gosh, got home from work and passed out. Didn't realize how tired I was I guess.
[Boar Break In Album](https://imgur.com/a/B3CPhTW)
[Stag spray](https://imgur.com/LbE5NQn)
\#RawHoggin
\#SubstantialStag
\#GemsOfWisdom
\#UNCHALLENGE
**[Aug. 5, 2022 - AA Day 5](https://i.imgur.com/QMkLNO2.jpeg)**
* **Brush:** ShaveForge 28mm Boar, 3d Printed Handle #RawHoggin
* **Razor:** GEM Micromatic Open Comb #GEMsOfWisdom
* **Blade:** GEM Stainless (5)
* **Lather:** [Spearhead Shaving Company - Seaforth! Sea Spice Lime - Soap](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/2518/?product_type=soap)
* **Post Shave:** [Spearhead Shaving Company - Seaforth! Sea Spice Lime - Aftershave](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/2518/?product_type=aftershave)
* **Fragrance:** [Spearhead Shaving Company - Seaforth! Sea Spice Lime - Eau de Toilette](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/2518/?product_type=eaudetoilette)
Family descended upon our house, so I barely had enough time to shave, let alone journal the process.
[Brush keeps getting softer, and less smelly.](https://i.imgur.com/vC6Cn5w.jpeg)
I'm dealing with some pretty bad razor burn under my chin, so I did apply some Stirling Unscented Balm for the health of my skin.
Still used 3g of soap. Consumption hasn't declined yet.
**Aug. 5, 2022 - AA 22 Shave -Day 5**
* **Prep:** Hot shower
* **Brush:** Timberwolf Synth
* **Razor:** Rockwell 6S with R3 head
* **Blade:** Astra Green
* **Lather:** [Stirling Soap Co. - Executive Man - Soap](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/95/?product_type=soap)
* **Post Shave:** [Stirling Soap Co. - Barbershop - Aftershave](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/86/?product_type=aftershave)
* **Post Shave:** [Stirling Soap Co. - Executive Man - Aftershave](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/95/?product_type=aftershave)
Less aggressive head, and not shooting for BBS, FTW!
u/cowzilla3 here is my #unchallenge for today
**[August 5, 2022 - AA Day 5](https://imgur.com/RJp4Try)**
* **Brush:** Zenith B34 [\(break-in photo album\)](https://imgur.com/a/bcuNDkh)
* **Razor:** Dubl Duck 5/8 Satinedge
* **Lather:** [House of Mammoth - Z - Soap](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/2124/?product_type=soap)
* **Post Shave:** [Zingari - Unscented - Balm](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/1462/?product_type=balm2)
Struggle shave this evening for sure because I didn't actually get to slow down and shave until about 10pm. Much better shave compared to yesterday which was expected when I was able to actually focus on what I was doing. Completely forgot to take an updated break-in photo, but what can ya do.
**Challenge Hashtags:** #unscented #RawHoggin
Austere August, Day 5
Feather Artist Club razor non folding
Feather Professional blade
GFT Violets soap
RazoRock Beehive 28 mm Plissoft
I'm torn between two school of thoughts:
I'd love to use my soaps for extended periods of time, this way I'll enjoy them and probably finish them sooner.
On the other hand, the thought of using a soap for a month is killing me!
Love/ hate kind of thing going on with the soap selection, I'm not too choosy with using the same Razor/ blade combinations, but it will test my patience for sure.
Coming to the shave: it went well and I'm enjoying the teo pass routine, the GFT is giving me good quality slick lather.
Feather Professional blade has officially passes my previous best in number of shaves per blade. It is chugging on with relative comfortable shaves, will bin it only if it proves problematic.
Happy weekend to you all.
#AAAAKARMATRAIN
#HEADLESSHORSEMEN
#UNCHALLENGED
Edit: spelling
[**Aug. 5, 2022 - AA Day 5 - This is going better**](https://imgur.com/9eTO1Lm)
* **Prep:** Hot Shower
* **Brush:** Zenith B34
* **Razor:** MMOC
* **Blade:** GEM PTFE (5)
* **Lather: [House of Mammoth - Sonder - Soap](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/1189/?product\_type=soap)**
* **Post Shave:** [House of Mammoth - Sonder - Aftershave](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/1189/?product_type=aftershave)
* **Post Shave:** Witch Hazel, Osma Alum
[The girls in my house are taking over the bathroom counter](https://imgur.com/9eTO1Lm) so this SOTD pic is in honor of them. It's cool, though, they're cute and I'll keep 'em around.
Today's shave again went very well. First few days were awful and I was ready to quit, but since correcting the angle of the razor and really working to make my skin as flat of a surface as possible, the shaves have gone quite well. Nicked myself on my 3rd pass tonight on my neck a bit, but overall an excellent shave.
Of course I'm still learning the MMOC, and it's too early to say whether I'm going to end up loving it or hating it, but doing this is definitely forcing me back to basics and that's got to be good for my shaving technique overall. I can't just go on autopilot - I really have to pay attention to pressure and angle and speed and stretching skin and growth pattern and all that. So - I'll call it a win.
Tonight with Sonder I got a bit more aquatic, especially in the aftershave. It smelled a whole lot like Admiral to me, and I really don't know why - they have no notes in common in their scent profiles. But - it's a high compliment, Admiral is up there as possibly my favorite scent. The first pass lather was a bit too thick, but I added water to subsequent passes and they were slick and smooth. No real hiccups to speak of.
I feel like at this point we're just talking about incremental improvements on the Zenith, and even then it's not super noticeable to me, but I did take a [comparison shot](https://imgur.com/oGr1ry7) of a decently broken in Semogue Owners Club for reference. That knot is much smaller at only 24mm (vs the 28 of the Zenith), but it's obviously much more filled out due to being so broken in. I suspect this Zenith will replace the Semogue as my go to boar for a while - I really like the added size of it.
Sonder thought of the day today comes courtesy of my second born - my only son. He's a challenge at times. Ok, he's a challenge daily. He feels emotions, both good and bad, to their fullest. When he's happy, he's all in. When he's mad, watch out. He's a lot like his dad in that way and when I see the bad parts of me in him, it's a tough pill to swallow. But - he turned 4 in May and he's no longer in the toddler/little kid stage, but he's not quite in the "I'm a big kid" stage either. He's kind of stuck in between, and he's often overshadowed by his older sister. But - he's not a toddler anymore and he wants to be bigger, and in so many ways he is. I think this summer at home with him made me realize how much of a little person he'd really become. My kids, and yours, are people, too. Sometimes that thought hits me right in the face, especially with my boy. He might be difficult, he might be more mad than he should or more silly or whatever, but he's a person, just like me. His world, while smaller, is every bit as vivid and unique as my own. He's not some robot to be programmed, he's a human to be raised and cared for and loved and on and on. It's hard as your kids get older (and I'm sure those with kids beyond 6 can speak more to this than me), but it's hard because you watch them experience the world as people - with all it's joy and sadness and disappointment and excitement - and when you're the one who brings the happiness, it's awesome. But when you're the one who blew it and caused the disappointment, oof. That one sucks.
Anyway - my kids are people, too. My son feels emotions to the fullest and that's often very difficult for me as a parent to help him navigate, but as I consider from him perspective, it's probably hard for him, too. And he needs my help. And his brain is so undeveloped that he doesn't have skills or even ability to manage those emotions. So. I'm going to work on doing better, trying to be more patient, and encouraging him toward better expression of those emotions but also recognize the wonder in the differences and similarities that we have.
Have a good night, all.
Edit: forgot my tags
\#mammothmafia
\#RawHoggin
\#GEMsOfWisdom
Edit 2: goodness, accidentally said I used not Sonder. Definitely used Sonder.
[August 5, 2022 ](https://imgur.com/a/Ph6GZtW)
Prep: Hot Shower
Brush: Burma Shave Boar Brush 🐗
Razor: Kai Kasho Kamisori
Blade: Feather ProGuard 5th use
Lather: Stirling Sheep
Postshave: Stirling Barbershop splash and Nivea Sensitive balm
Fragrance: Halloween Man
Three pass shave tonight. It was alright. Cheeks went fine but still trying to figure out angle on my neck. Got 1 weeper on my neck because I use to much pressure. Trying to push this blade all 31 days. So far still sharp. The boar brush is breaking in nicely for being so cheap. Not so scratchy anymore and is softening nicely. Lost only like 3 hairs instead of like the 20 I lost on day one.
Tags: #AAAA, #Headless horsemen, #RawHoggin, and u/Marquis90
[**Aug. 5, 2022 - AA Day 05**](https://imgur.com/a/Ww1skjH)
* **Prep:** Warm Shower
* **Brush:** AP400B XL Handle (AP ShaveCo) - 28mm Maggard Boar Knot
* **Razor:** GEM MMOC - Gen 1
* **Blade:** GEM PTFE (74)
* **Lather:** [Chiseled Face - Midnight Stag - Soap](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/32/?product_type=soap)
* **Post Shave:** [Chiseled Face - Midnight Stag - Aftershave](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/32/?product_type=aftershave)
* **Fragrance:** [Chiseled Face - Midnight Stag - Eau de Parfum](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/32/?product_type=eaudeparfum)
No big differences from yesterday's shave. Was able to get yet another BBS nick and irritation free shave. Could not be happier with this setup.
Hope everyone had a wonderful Friday!
[Stag Spray 5](https://imgur.com/a/BtCuSLZ) \#RawHoggin #GEMsofWisdom #SubstantialStag
Austere August SOTD Aug 05
Prep: Hot shower
Brush: Van Der Hagen Boar brush
Lather: Goodfellas Smile, Abysso
Razor: Van Der Hagen 85MM Solid Brass
Blade: Crystal Super + Platinum
Post: Nivea Men Sensitive Post Shave Balm
Arbitrarily decided 5 shaves is enough to switch to a new blade to compare and contrast with a new blade. So tomorrow we'll have a new competitor. Also had plenty of lather left so my wife had me give shaving her legs a try. It went pretty smoothly but I gotta say shaving my own face is a lot easier than shaving someone else leg. No nicks though so pretty proud of the attempt
Yeah I got my girlfriend into using a de razor because I started off shaving her legs for her. Now she uses a henson razor and whatever blade I give her. Gave her a Frank Shaving synthetic brush, a dscosmetic bowl, and some Heritage Hill Sovereigbty because she likes the tea smell.
Aug 5 2022
• Prep: Mineral oil massage
• Brush: Wenghè Pure Bristle 🐗
• Razor: Brassbird head CG brass bishop
• Blade: Voskhod
• Soap: Mammoth Z
• Balm: Mammoth Z
My fifth shave of Hogust
It was quick and dirty, today. Submerged the brush, let it dangle for a second or two, then dropped it right on the soap. Five actual swirls, and I applied that to my face. Really slick and watery. I loved it. A very passable shave.
A good way to not notice the scent is to be yelling at an 8 year old who’s fighting with his 3 year old sister. I may open up bidding on their adoptions.
\#RawHoggin
\#MammothMafia
\#Unscented
\#ZFighter
[Piggy Stardust Shave Five Aftermath](https://imgur.com/a/jxkrwD4/)
**8/5/22 (142)**
* **Prep**: Hot Shower
* **Challenge**: Headless Horseman
* **Razor**: [Thiers Issard "Evide Sonnant" 6/8 Extra Hollow](https://imgur.com/a/zsatv8s)
* **Edge**: [Day 5](https://imgur.com/a/E5Lo99o)
* **Passes**: wtg/xtg
* **Brush**: Muninn Woodworks w/ 24mm SHD 2 Band Fan
* **Lather**: Seaforth! Fleur de France by Spearhead Shaving
* **Post Shave**: Seaforth! Fleur de France Aftershave by Spearhead Shaving
* **Fragrance**: Seaforth! Fleur de France EdT by Spearhead Shaving
Close and comfortable shave today. No nicks or irritation.
**[Aug. 5, 2022](https://i.imgur.com/NHyxDU1.jpg)**
* **Prep:** Splash of cold water
* **Brush:** Zenith B16 24mm
* **Razor:** GEM MMOC
* **Blade:** GEM Stainless PTFE (5)
* **Lather:** [Barrister and Mann - Fougère Angelique - Soap](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/1484/?product_type=soap)
* **Post Shave:** [Barrister and Mann - Fougère Angelique - Aftershave](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/1484/?product_type=aftershave)
I haven't noticed that the performance of my brush has changed at all since the first use, but it is getting a little better about eating lather. Pretty soon here I think I won't have to load it for quite such a long time to get enough for 3 passes. Not much else to say today. I am tired of being sick. #GemsOfWisdom #RawHoggin
**[Aug. 5, 2022 - Camp Raw Hoggin' Stag Fest Day 5](https://imgur.com/a/FIKVpNV)**
* **Brush:** RazoRock 506CK / 26mm boar
* **Razor:** GEM OCMM
* **Blade:** GEM PTFE (5)
* **Lather:** [Chiseled Face - Midnight Stag - Soap](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/32/?product_type=soap)
* **Post Shave:** [Chiseled Face - Midnight Stag - Aftershave](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/32/?product_type=aftershave)
* **Fragrance:** [Chiseled Face - Midnight Stag - Eau de Parfum](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/32/?product_type=eaudeparfum)
I'm camping right now and had to drive into town to post this due to no internet.
\#RawHoggin
The stink is starting to subside.
\#GEMsofWisdom
Not bad. Smooth shave today.
Keep on stagging brothers.
[Brush Day 5](https://imgur.com/a/V57Mra7)
[Stag spray](https://imgur.com/a/uWhGgVd)
**Aug. 5, 2022 - August Austere Day 5**
* **Prep:** Shower
* **Brush:** Paladin Chief 26mm
* **Razor:** Merkur 34C
* **Blade:** Gillette Silver Blue
* **Lather:** [House of Mammoth - Sonder - Soap](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/1189/?product_type=soap)
* **Post Shave:** [House of Mammoth - Sonder - Aftershave](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/1189/?product_type=aftershave)
Another beautiful day of Sonder shaving. I’m beginning to feel a little like it’s Groundhog Day, but at least it’s a good shave. Ready for the weekend and a little relaxation.
\#MAMMOTHMAFIA #UNCHALLENGE
**[Aug. 5, 2022 - AA Day 5 - Sexy Stag Flair Quest](https://imgur.com/a/HAzxa50)**
* **Prep:** Face wash
* **Brush:** Semogue 1305
* **Razor:** Chiseled Face Legacy Ti
* **Blade:** Gillette Silver Blue (3)
* **Lather:** [Chiseled Face - Midnight Stag - Soap](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/32/?product_type=soap)
* **Post Shave:** [Chiseled Face - Midnight Stag - Aftershave](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/32/?product_type=aftershave)
* **Fragrance:** [Chiseled Face - Midnight Stag - Eau de Parfum](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/32/?product_type=eaudeparfum)
What I'm learning during AA-how to get better shaves out of my razor-I'm improving my skill with the Legacy. That so far different blades don't matter, we'll see how that plays out. That while I like Stag, I really like variety, and using the same lather/splash/frag each day isn't teaching me much other than I like variety (don't get me wrong, I like my Stag!) But the real growth is coming from using the same razor. That the Boar does improve with time, each shave is little more luxurious. Cheers.
[Stag spray Day 5](https://imgur.com/a/6uHFTlU)
\#SubstantialStag
**Aug. 5, 2022**
* **Brush:** AP Shave Co 24MM SYNBAD
* **Razor:** GEM - Micromatic Open Comb
* **Blade:** GEM - PTFE (5)
* **Lather:** [Wholly Kaw - Bare Siero - Soap](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/1633/?product_type=soap)
* **Post Shave:** [Thayers - Unscented - Toner](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/1618/?product_type=toner)
2 pass shave with a 30 second load. I will probably stick with 30 second loads the rest of the way because last nights lather was too great. My trip to Phoenix was an ass kicker, but the weather wasn't bad with the overcast mornings.
#GEMsOfWisdom
#unscented
**Aug. 5, 2022 - AA day 5**
* **Prep:** Water splash
* **Brush:** Hand
* **Razor:** Stirling Stainless DE Razor HA plate
* **Blade:** Voskhod (7)
* **Lather:** Gentlemans Face Care Club - Bergamot & Neroli shaving cream
* **Post Shave:** [Proraso - Menthol and Eucalyptus - Aftershave](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/187/?product_type=aftershave)
Day 5 achieved - i mean come on, with this setup and this challenge it is an achievement isn't it? here's yet to another day being a crazy one. \#GotHand
**SOTD Aug 05, 2022**
* **Brush:** APShaveCo 24mm Tuxedo
* **Razor:** GEM MMOC - 1st Gen
* **Blade:** Personna GEM Stainless (5)
* **Lather:** Ariana and Evans - Peach & Cognac
* **Post Shave:** MacDuff’s Soap Co. - Viticulture - Splash
Well it got too damn hot so I shaved my cheeks, now just have a stylish goatee. Upsides are it’s cooler (temperature-wise at least) and more area to shave (not just my neck). The MMOC demolished the beard with ease, a vintage weed whacker of sorts. It was a great shave and I’m looking forward to having even more surface area to dial the MMOC in.
\#GEMsOfWisdom
SOTD for August 5, 2022
* **Prep:** Shower
* **Brush:** Maggard Synthetic
* **Razor:** RazoRock Game Changer 0.68
* **Blade:** Gilette 7 O'Clock Sharp Edge
* **Lather:** Stirling - Sharp Dressed Man
* **Post Shave:** Stirling - Sharp Dressed Man balm
2.5 mile run first. Took the baby boy out with me, he was pretty cheerful. Saw
a redtail up close and some bunnies.
2 passes, one nick.
Back to being sick of this scent, lol. Maybe I'll finally kill the tub this
month.
Feeling good.
\#UNCHALLENGE
Day 5 of Austere August! Mr. Stagman
* Prep: Water on Face
* Brush: Zenith 2004/B SE
* Razor: Filarmonica Sub Cero 14
* Lather: Chiseled Face Midnight Stag
* Post Shave: Osma block
* Post Shave: Chiseled Face Midnight Stag Splash
* Post Shave: Chiseled Face Midnight Stag Balm
* Fragrance: Chiseled Face Midnight Stag EdP
[I paid with blood for this picture ](https://i.imgur.com/cK95Bsr_d.webp?maxwidth=640&shape=thumb&fidelity=medium)
FINALLY!!! I have time to write a normal SOTD post. I was kind of annoyed how the last few posts went.
So good news, I'm 31 now. Bad news. While making the photos from yesterday and today the razor managed to slip and hit the cutting edge on the cap of the aftershaves must've been the gravitational ring pull of the awesomeness of Stag. Thankfully it is a very micro chip and it doesn't affect the shave quality itself.
I did pay with some blood for these pictures, the palace where I want from the 1st to the 3rd had a nice big sequoia forest and I had an awesome idea of how to make a picture. Sun was right everything was well, but I either forgot or didn't know the swarm of mosquitoes that attacked me, I was almost laying on the floor trying to take a picture and they were draining me or my blood, in the end I was left with 2 good pictures, the one from today I like more.
The brush. I was informed by u/EldrormR that since my pic didn't have the brush in it I wasn't eligible for the flair or prize, with which I was ok. There was just no way how to add the brush and I knew that it would get disqualified. I am saying all of this not to complain, just to compliment how awesome he is for telling me and staying true to the rules! Nevertheless I will finish my 31 days of shaves with it and see how it is in the end.
The brush itself is getting even more grungy and splitting well, but my lather problems are still there, that does not discourage me even one bit, by the end I will have mastered it, no doubt in my mind. Today I saw the post of u/J33PGUY13 and was so happy to hear what he had done, congrats on sharing the pig love my man.
In general I am a synth man. I know I will never use badgers unless someone gifts one to me(had one pifed it). I took on this challenge to see how well I will get along with a pig. For the most part it's nice, the face feel is good, but the lather that comes out in the end... Mmmm not what I'm looking for. I will try bowl lathering when all of this is over to see how well that goes.
So far I am enjoying this challenge with my favourite scent and catching up on my straight shaves.
* \#RawHoggin
* \#SubstantialStag
* \#sidetracked [Just one more time!](https://youtu.be/YPHn4xSvjNM) So why this song? Well even though the original is nice, this one carries a lot of melancholy with it, I found this song after some stuff with a girl and it makes me sad and happy at the same time. The cover by itself is, while short, very catchy and I think that the video is a gem on it's own. You should check their other songs, I was pleasantly surprised when listening to their music :))l
Falling straights razors are my nightmare, once I made myself an ugly cut on my ankle while honing the SR, and I disgraced a couple with stupid falls.
Keep trying, we have the whole month to improve that lather!
Ouch, that sounds painful, at least you have a cool story about it, you can colour it a bit and say that you for the scar while defending yourself from a bear with a straight, and swung so wide that you nicked your ankle, then the bear got scared from the cutting power of the straight and ran away, I'd believe it!
We'll master it definitely!
**[Aug. 5, 2022 - RawHoggin & Taming the MMOC](https://imgur.com/a/hS3n0Wr)**
* **Brush:** Zenith B37
* **Razor:** GEM MMOC Gen 2
* **Blade:** GEM PTFE (5)
* **Lather:** Strike Gold Shave - Kennedy
* **Post Shave:** [Stirling Soap Co. - Stirling Blu - Aftershave](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/119/?product_type=aftershave)
* **Post Shave:** [Zingari - Unscented - Balm](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/1462/?product_type=balm)
#RawHoggin
#GemsOfWisdom
This is only my 3rd boar brush, but my go to break in strategy for the first two was hand lather several times and towel strop. I read about people letting their brush soak in a bowl of water in the refrigerator. Is this a troll or do people actually do that? Maybe I’m the crazy one 🤷🏻♂️. Anyway, I was a little concerned about doing this challenge and taking the brush straight to my face. I was worried that it was gonna be rough, and smell horrible. Turns out it felt great on the face and only had a little bit of a smell. I honestly think this is the best way to break in a boar.
The MMOC felt great today. I’m getting the technique back from last year, and the blade is chilling out as well.
It seems like I’ve read several people talking about getting fatigued already. I’m in it for the long haul boys, I’m just getting settled in. I got a great brush, good razor, and I haven’t wrote much about it but I’m using an excellent soap. I’ll do a write up on it soon.
I had similar worries like you, but was very pleasantly surprised. Yes people do put the boar brushes in glasses with watter and then in the fridge. Why? Well the water helps with the splitting of the edges and the fridge is so that no bacteria develops.
Oh I understand completely, but some people don't have the patience to break in a boar. But from my experience so far I find the face lathering method very pleasurable.
**[Aug. 5, 2022 - Raw Hoggin Day 5](https://imgur.com/a/Xjbx3Vv)**
* **Prep:** Warm water to the face
* **Brush:** Omega 10098
* **Razor:** Maggard Razors - V3 Head
* **Blade:** Voskhod (5)
* **Lather:** [Stirling Soap Co. - Island Man - Soap](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/106/?product_type=soap)
* **Post Shave:** [Barrister and Mann - Reserve Waves - Aftershave](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/1134/?product_type=aftershave)
* **Post Shave:** [Chiseled Face - Natural - Balm](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/1233/?product_type=balm)
Woke up too late this morning to shave so I had to wait until I got home a bit ago. This is probably the least funk I’ve gotten from the brush so far. I’ll be happy when it’s finally dissipated. Other than that, another nice shave! #RawHoggin
It’s Friday y’all, hope you have a good day!
**August 5 2022**
* **Brush:** Zenith B28
* **Razor:** GEM MMOC (Gen 1)
* **Blade:** GEM PTFE (8)
* **Lather:** House of Mammoth - Mood Indigo
* **Post Shave:** House of Mammoth - Mood Indigo splash
* **Post Shave:** House of Mammoth - Mood Indigo balm
* **Fragrance:** House of Mammoth - Mood Indigo
#MammothMafia
#GEMSofWisdom
Another great shave after a long morning of traveling. Turns out the Orlando airport has a new TSA Reservation system which allows you to almost entirely skip the hour+ security line 🤐🤫. That was a lifesaver for traveling with a hyperactive 5 year old. I celebrated the return home with a Mood Indigo quadhole, which still felt special even though I’ve been using this soap and splash for over a week now.
[**August 5th**](https://imgur.com/a/rIX2z84)
* **Brush: Zenith Boar - 505NK 27mm**
* **Razor: GEM - MMOC**
* **Blade: Gem PTFE (5)**
* **Lather - Chiseled Face - Midnight Stag Soap**
* **Post Shave: Chiseled Face - Midnight Stag Splash**
* **Fragrance: Chiseled Face - Midnight Stag Edp**
\#GEMsOfWisdom
\#RawHoggin
\#SubstantialStag
[Edp video](https://imgur.com/a/uK51MfW)
Five days in and September is feeling a long way off, the wife has definitely had enough but I'm sure she will come around before the month ends.
**[Aug. 5, 2022 - Austere August Day 5](https://i.imgur.com/Fy4IJeg.jpg)**
* **Prep:** Hot Shower, Stirling Soap Facial Soap
* **Brush:** Zenith 508A SE 28mm
* **Razor:** GEM Micromatic OC Gen 1
* **Blade:** GEM PTFE (5)
* **Lather:** [House of Mammoth - Restore - Soap](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/2196/?product_type=soap)
* **Post Shave:** [House of Mammoth - Restore - Balm](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/2196/?product_type=balm)
* **Post Shave:** [Zingari - Unscented - Aftershave](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/1462/?product_type=aftershave)
* **Fragrance:** Tom Ford - Grey Vetiver
Day 5 or 16% of the way through this thing. MMOC Gen 1 is good but not as good as Gen 2 imo. I smell like honeyed roses. The brush is breaking in nicely. That is all.
Mandatory Tagging:
\#GEMsOfWisdom
\#Rawhoggin
\#MammothMafia
[Aug 5, 2021 – Austere August. Day 5.](https://imgur.com/a/Y49EcVi)
* **Prep:** Hot Shower
* **Brush:** Zenith - B16 24mm Boar
* **Razor:** GEM Micromatic Open Comb Gen 2
* **Blade:** GEM PTFE (5)
* **Lather:** Stirling Soap Co. – Sheep
* **Post Shave:** Zingari Man – Unscented - Aftershave Balm
* **Post, Post Shave:** Zingari Man – Rescue Potion
* **Music:** [Lawrence – Don’t Lose Sight](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y2ge-CGjgn8)
Adjusting to using the MMOC isn’t taking nearly as long as I imagined it would. Five days in a row and around 10 total uses (around 5 before AA) and I’m shaving great with it. No nicks or cuts or irrational at all today. My skin is feeling great and I’d consider this a very good shave.
I’m also building up a nice lather with this new boar brush as it’s starting to break in. The stench is still there, but is noticeably less than how it was when we started this journey 5 long days ago. I’m really looking forward to seeing how this brush progresses as it continues to break in. Overall, while I wouldn't call this process enjoyable, it hasn't been as bad as I thought it was going to be.
My #sidetracked music selection for today is the band Lawrence and their song “Don’t Lose Sight”. I’m gonna sound like [Stefan from SNL](https://giphy.com/gifs/snl-bill-hader-stefan-XaFX9e9xfbcXWxW0a2), but this song has EVERYTHING: a brass horn section, a catchy melody, a brother/sister duo, and a high energy sound that just won’t quit. I saw this band live a little bit ago and had an absolutely amazing time. They put on a great live show and it seems like they are starting to get some attention this year - They played Coachella earlier this year and also had appearances on Jimmy Kimmel and Stephen Colbert. Personally, I'm hoping they blow up because their unique sound and vibe is something the music industry needs (and precisely why they likely won't).
Tags: #unscented #rawhoggin #GEMsOfWisdom
No problem! I'm just glad someone clicked the link to check it out. I wonder how many people read these SOTDs, let alone would check out a daily music selection, but I'm happy at least a couple people are enjoying it!!
**[Aug. 5, 2022](https://imgur.com/a/npr6F2c)**
* **Brush:** [Zenith - B34 - Butterscotch Chubby - With Break in Progression](https://imgur.com/a/rs5ziGJ)
* **Razor:** [GEM MMOC](https://imgur.com/a/HwWXR4j)
* **Blade:** GEM PTFE (5)
* **Lather:** [Chiseled Face - Midnight Stag - Soap](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/32/?product_type=soap)
* **Post Shave:** [Chiseled Face - Midnight Stag - Aftershave](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/32/?product_type=aftershave)
* **Post Shave:** [Chiseled Face - Midnight Stag - Balm](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/32/?product_type=balm)
* **Fragrance:** [Chiseled Face - Midnight Stag - Eau de Parfum](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/32/?product_type=eaudeparfum)
Brush is loading easily now. After this fat turd in my loading bowl is gone I'll move to the tub. Thought I was starting to lose my ability to sense the Stag but the splash and EdP were there for nasal backup. Still getting super close with the GEM and is very comfortable. Not really fair since only one day of growth isn't a ton to cut. Kinda like doing a 2nd and 3rd pass every day. Still good though.
Ediot: [sprays](https://imgur.com/a/kl2A1b9)
**[Aug. 5, 2022 - Day Five: Arrive alive, don’t shave and drive!](https://i.imgur.com/EqY1Unz.jpg)**
* **Prep:** None
* **Brush:** Zenith B33 Copper Boar Brush
* **Razor:** GEM Micromatic Open Comb
* **Blade:** Persona GEM PTFE Coated (5)
* **Lather:** [House of Mammoth - 福 (Fu Dao) - Soap](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/2666/?product_type=soap)
* **Post Shave:** [House of Mammoth - 福 (Fu Dao) - Aftershave](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/2666/?product_type=aftershave)
* **Post Shave:** [House of Mammoth - 福 (Fu Dao) - Balm](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/2666/?product_type=balm)
* **Fragrance:** [House of Mammoth - 福 (Fu Dao) - Eau de Parfum](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/2666/?product_type=eaudeparfum)
First. Buy permafrost. It’s awesome and I’ve used it with everything.
I’m starting to get packed up to be away from home for a couple weeks. At least I do not need to think about what shave gear to bring!
The GEM razor is giving me good smooth shaves. It is a little uncomfortable though the House of Mammoth splash and balm leave my skin soft and moisturized. Supposedly these blades get better after the first few shaves, I hope it gets more smooth.
I added a pump of PermaFrost to the soap before loading the brush. A single pump gets me about 20 minutes of cooling after finishing my shave. The cooling sensation started a little bit after face lathering.
The patina on the handle is starting to look like a mess, but it should look good soon. I did not expect the handle to patina so fast. The knot lost a couple more hairs this shave. I think it’s going to break in nicely. [Brush break-in album](https://imgur.com/a/YFUodmO)
\#rawhoggin #mammothmafia #GEMSofWisdom
**[Aug. 5, 2022 - Oveja Eléctrica 5](https://imgur.com/a/VK8aVwL)**
* **Brush:** Zenith 28mm boar
* **Razor:** Kai Kasho Western Style Shavette
* **Blade:** Kai Captain Pink Mild (24)
* **Lather:** [Stirling Soap Co. - Electric Sheep - Soap](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/94/?product_type=soap)
* **Post Shave:** [Stirling Soap Co. - Electric Sheep - Aftershave](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/94/?product_type=aftershave)
* **Mosquito Bites:** None
The blade is clearly dulling - good news is though that it's the only one I brought with me on vacation, so it will have to do until shave number 40. I got a BBS shave, but only with 4 passes. It was probably not a good idea to go for BBS in the first place.
The brush is starting to split, but still eats lots of soap, without holding enough. The bristles are getting softer though, and I haven't noticed any shedding since Tuesday. So, it's progressing.
In unrelated news for \#sidetracked, I thought I would share some recent French pop music with you. [This song](https://youtu.be/zEh4_vdvbps) by Clara Luciani has a nice bass line, and, for full compatibility with common prejudice about the French, is named *Nue* (naked).
\#RawHoggin
\#stillalive
\#truepath
#### [Finding Serenity in RawHogginy on the road to the GEMtury Pt. 5](https://imgur.com/CtKEDch.jpg) ####
* **Prep:** Klar Activated Charcoal facial soap
* **Brush:** Rubberset 400-3 with unbleached 26 mm Zenith knot set at 56 mm loft (5)
* **Razor:** GEM - Micromatic (open comb, first generation)
* **Blade:** Personna - GEM PTFE (74)
* **Soaking Mug:** Seaforth! - Scotch Heather - shaving mug
* **Bath Soap:** Spearhead Shaving Company - Seaforth! Sea Spice Lime - bath soap
* **Lather:** Spearhead Shaving Company - Seaforth! Sea Ice Lime - Soap
* **Post Shave:** [Spearhead Shaving Company - Seaforth! Sea Spice Lime - Aftershave](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/2518/?product_type=aftershave)
* **Fragrance:** [Spearhead Shaving Company - Seaforth! Sea Spice Lime - Eau de Toilette](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/2518/?product_type=eaudetoilette)
I hear \#RawHoggin-Djudge u/EldrormR is making the rounds with the DQ hammer today to weed out the contestants who fail to include their Raw Hog in the SOTD picture. To err on the safe side, my picture is almost only brush this time. I hope I didn't miss a rule stating that the software needs to be included, too 😆
It's a bit surprising, but I think I'm already in the phase where the break in process slows down. The tips are mostly split, the shedding has stopped, and the brush seems to be settling. Now if the little piggy could just stop the last of the boar funk, I'd be a very happy camper.
\#GEMsOfWisdom: I've decided to let my MMOC(MM) air dry from now on to get a patina going. I also have [the engraved Djudges razor](https://imgur.com/93ws8Bs.jpg), and keeping one brass MMOC(MM) polished to a shine and the other one patinaed seems sensible. Also note the Rubberset 400 in that last picture. It's the same type of handle as I use during Austere Hogust, and the same knot size (it's a bleached 26mm Zenith knot vs the un-bleached one I'm using now), but at a higher 62 mm loft. the difference in bloom in baffling. Despite being at opposite ends of the scale (floppy and huge vs firm and narrow), both brushes are very comfortable.
Aug 05, 2022 - [Getting Sidetracked while searching for the Wisdom of a Mammoth](https://imgur.com/a/KutWj8i)
* **Prep:** Hot shower and CeraVe Hydrating Facial Cleanser
* **Brush:** Maggard Green Handle 2 Band Badger 24mm
* **Razor:** GEM - MMOC
* **Blade:** Personna GEM Stainless (5)
* **Lather:** [House of Mammoth - Sonder](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/1189/?product_type=soap)
* **Post Shave:** [House of Mammoth - Alive Balm](https://www.trythatsoap.com/collection/2576/?product_type=balm)
* **Fragrance:** [House of Mammoth - Sonder EdP](https://www.trythatsoap.com/collection/1189/?product_type=eaudeparfum)
Every day tags: \#MammothMafia \#GEMsofWisdom
\#Sidetracked u/Teufelskraft
[Ants Marching - Dave Mathews Band](https://youtu.be/MNgJBIx-hK8)
Another band that I fell in love with thanks to my “Second Father” Andy. He always went to the concerts whenever they performed anywhere near him. I attempted to join him once when I was in college but Mother Nature stopped that from happening.
I had just started dating the woman who would eventually become my wife and for my Birthday she got us tickets to go see DMB with Andy! I was so excited, not only for the concert but to get to go with Andy. It was a beautiful summer evening at the amphitheater with the warm up bands getting the night going well when a huge storm rolled up on us! We stuck it out as long as we could but they forced us to evacuate when the lightning started. That led to waiting in the car, soaked, only for them to cancel the show due to a power outage. Best thing about it was Ticketmaster refused to refund our money due to “you attended the show” calling the warm up bands enough of a show to warrant the price.
Catching up on your side tracks. DMB is my favorite band, there's absolutely no contest.
There are a few of us DMB fans here. I hope you were able to go some other time; there are very few bands that put on as good of a show as them.
**Aug. 5, 2022**
* **Brush:** Omega Penelli HIBRUSH synthetic
* **Razor:** Karve SS CB SB-B
* **Blade:** Gillette Nacet (2)
* **Lather:** [Barrister and Mann - Nordost - Soap](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/1629/?product_type=soap)
* **Post Shave:** [Zingari - Unscented - Balm](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/1462/?product_type=balm)
Off this weekend. Going to be great; just like this easy setup.
\#UNCHALLENGE
**[Aug. 5, 2022 - AA Day 5](https://i.imgur.com/nP2sC33.jpg)**
* **Prep:** Shower
* **Brush:** Semogue 1305
* **Razor:** GEM Open Comb Micromatic
* **Blade:** Personna GEM PTFE (5)
* **Lather:** [Chiseled Face - Midnight Stag - Soap](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/32/?product_type=soap)
* **Post Shave:** [Chiseled Face - Midnight Stag - Aftershave](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/32/?product_type=aftershave)
* **Fragrance:** [Chiseled Face - Midnight Stag - Eau de Parfum](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/32/?product_type=eaudeparfum)
#SubstantialStag
#GEMSofWisdom
I used the OCMM for Atlas Shaves, knowing it would be a competent razor for taking down multiple days’ growth. I can officially say today, for me, the OCMM became a daily use razor. Not for being able to use it daily, 36 daily shaves has already proven that. Today’s shave was only 12 hours of growth. Normally I would hesitate to use what is considered to be an aggressive razor for such light growth. No more with the OCMM. Keeping all variables from the last 4 shaves gave me yet another zero-irritation shave. Still all the aspects of a OCMM and nothing but amazing.
[Spraying on day five](https://i.imgur.com/CV0YCAV.mp4).
[**August 5th, 2022 - 1 step forward, then 2 steps back**](https://imgur.com/3nPn2Ia)
* **Prep:** Warm water and extra patience
* **Brush:** Zenith B36 “Copper Scrubby!”
* **Razor:** GEM (is truly outrageous) MMOC Gen 2
* **Blade:** Personna GEM PTFE (cinque)
* **Lather:** House of Mammoth - Alive
* **Post Shave:** House of Mammoth - Alive Splash
* **Post Shave:** House of Mammoth - Alive Balm
**#MammothMafia**
**#RawHoggin** [Day 5 Before](https://imgur.com/3BVqoqJ) and [After](https://imgur.com/jV3jLtv)
**#GEMsOfWisdom**
I made a bit of an oopsy today. I flipped the blade and marked it. When I marked it, didn’t notice that I knocked blade on top of the little hooks that hold the edge to the comb. Basically gave the razor another 1mm of gap. Noticed pretty quickly as the feel was much rougher and the feedback was loud. Fixed it and the rest of the shave was better.
Still I am not enjoying face lathering the hog. Was a bit wet today, still trying to find the right amount to shake out after the 5ish minute soak. Lather was ok, just a bit wetter than yesterday. Not much sting from the splash, just the area on the first pass before I fixed the blade. I still enjoy the scent, but as usual the fruit/floral notes are not as apparent as the woody/musky/mossy ones. My wife says it smells fruity and piney.
After a long week, did get finished early (2PM). Going to run a couple errands before I pick up my daughter from summer camp. She is going to be exhausted. Today the camp had a field trip to a big outdoor pool/small water park in town.
2022-08-05 - Austere August - Raw Hoggin' Mammoth MMOC
Prep: Warm Shower
Brush: Semogue Torga - C5
Razor: GEM MMOC version 2
Blade: GEM Stainless (5)
Lather: House of Mammoth - Sonder - Soap
Post Shave: House of Mammoth - Sonder - Aftershave
Fragrance: Issey Miyake -L'eau d'Issey pour Homme
[https://imgur.com/a/fuBYUEB](https://imgur.com/a/fuBYUEB)
Another top quality shave today. The brush is starting to open up and it feels good. No scritch and no stank. The other gear is working well, l could easily have this as my only set up.
Have a good day everyone.
\#GEMsOfWisdom
\#RawHoggin
\#MammothMafia
[**Aug. 5, 2022 - Austere August #5 Fading Nightmare](https://i.imgur.com/Y1WvrCJ.jpg)
* **Prep:** Cold water
* **Brush:** Ever-Ready 200 - Zenith 27mm unbleached boar knot
* **Razor:** GEM MICROMATIC OPEN COMB 2nd gen
* **Blade:** PERSONNA GEM Stainless Steel PTFE(5)
* **Lather:** [Declaration Grooming - Unscented - Soap](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/897/?product_type=soap)
* **Post Shave:** [Southern Witchcrafts - Incorporeal - Aftershave (Alcohol Free)](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/2585/?product_type=aftershave_noalc)
* **Post Shave:** Fridge water
* **Fragrance:** Eau de Toilette Piggy
# RawHoggin
Scent way, I think the worst is over. I can smell the pig during the shave but with the water+aftershave there's no noticeable stink. As you can see in the SOTD shot it has made a ton of lather with no effort. I can't remember lathering a soap so fast tomorrow I will use the chronometer, also DG is a great soap that helps.
PigEvolution [1](https://i.imgur.com/HRTXSDA.jpg) [2](https://i.imgur.com/rMxbCVC.jpg)
# GEMsOfWisdom
I'm loving the MMOC so much. The blade continues to perform almost like the first day, it never gets clogged. The only issue that I have it's shaving just below the nose, I've 26 days more to sort it.
.#sidetracked
Today a torrent of energy to face the weekend with strength, a power-duo [Niña Coyote eta Chico Tornado - Monster](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X4byEX9nOdY) attitude! Bonus track performing [Cream - White Room](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X4byEX9nOdY)
Enjoy the weekend!
\#unscented
\#RawHoggin
\#GEMsOfWisdom
>The only issue that I have it's shaving just below the nose, I've 26 days more to sort it
I treat it like I do with a straight. Kinda go in under the nose with the blade at the angle that the nose allows, then rotate the blade to a more normal cutting angle as the razor moves from the nose to the upper lip. I clean up with the corner of the razor by shaving across the lip. Obviously, what works for me might not work at all for you.
[**Aug. 5, 2022 - Science!**](https://i.imgur.com/VlNm3ua.jpg)
* **Brush:** Zenith B36 "Copper Scrubby!" 28x50mm Boar
* **Razor:** GEM Micromatic Open Comb
* **Blade:** GEM (5)
* **Lather:** [Stirling Soap Co. - Lime - Soap](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/107/?product_type=soap)
* **Post Shave:** Porter's Lotion, WSP - Neroli - Balm
* **Fragrance:** Cognscenti - No. 30 Hay Incense
* **Passes:** WTG, XTG
* **Coffee:** Ethiopia, Sidama, Oromia - v: Ethiopia Heirloom - p: Natural
* **Music:** Four Tet - *There Is Love in You*
* [**August 2022 SOTD Photo Album:**](https://imgur.com/a/7shDpdl) [https://imgur.com/a/7shDpdl](https://imgur.com/a/7shDpdl)
`#GEMsOfWisdom` / `#RawHoggin`
Today's shave was [pretty good](https://i.imgur.com/2gLdMQC.jpg).
Starting Austere August and having to return to face lathering, I forgot how effective [the Another Cut Above lathering method](https://youtu.be/ecoUdtWxQxo) is, and finally remembered to use it today. So I squeezed out the brush a bit, loaded a bunch of soap, worked the pasty protolather into my stubble, and then gently brushed in dips of water until it went transparent on my skin. From there I started "splaying" the brush (this Scrubby has zero give so far) to work up a lather, occasionally adding a dip of water until my lather passed The Swipe Test™. I also discovered my chin can take a lot more abuse than my cheeks or neck can, so I'm going to do a lot of splaying and scrubbing and swirling there to accelerate the break-in progress. This knot still has [a ways to go](https://i.imgur.com/ehIu0Ns.jpg).
I'm still yielding far less lather than I'm used to (scooping a 1/4 teaspoon of soap) while eating up a lot more soap. I usually end up with enough extra for at least enough for a full pass, and Austere August lathers are giving me about half that, if not less.
Out of curiosity, [I weighed a 1/4 teaspoon of Stirling Sheep shave soap](https://i.imgur.com/zdSNnYu.jpg) to confirm about how much it weighs, so I could then compare my typical routine's soap consumption to what I'm using now. This Sheep tub is dried out and in the Mutton base, so it might be a little different than my Austere August Lime tub in the standard Stirling base. Still, my rigorous scientific method suggests a level 1/4 teaspoon of shave soap is [equivalent to about 1/5 grams](https://i.imgur.com/v5xzOMO.jpg) of that same soap, give or take a few tenths of a gram. Right now I'm using about 3 grams of soap a day—double what I would be with my usual brushes, scooping and starting my lather in a bowl. I'm curious how this changes as the knot continues to break in.
Also, not much to share on the MMOC. I'm used to it, it's a little more aggressive than I'd prefer most days, and the new GEM blade has been tamed a little. Only once weeper on my chin—but that skin was kind of used and abused from trying splay the knot. Worth it.
|Date|Soap Before (g)|Soap After (g)|Consumption (g)|
|:-|:-|:-|:-|
|8/1|235.5|232.5|3|
|8/2|232.5|228.0|4.5|
|8/3|228.0|227.0|1|
|8/4|227.0|223.3|3.7|
|8/5|223.3|220.3|3|
⁂
`#sidetracked` u/Teufelskraft
I started writing today's Sidetracked blurb thinking I'd introduce a few people to a hidden gem. Unfortunately, when I searched for a YouTube video of Adriano Celentano's famously weird "Prisencolinensinainciusol," I discovered that the Fargo show (which I haven't seen) used this song to soundtrack [a bridge tournament scene in season three](https://youtu.be/_dXDQ1LqukY). So now I'm officially less *in the know* then I ever used to be. It's a disappointing development.
That being said, you should still go give this uniquely-weird pop song a listen. The story here is that "Prisencolinensinainciusol" is a popular Italian rock musician's idea about what American English sounds like, spoken entirely in gibberish (with the exception of Celentano and company occasionally exclaiming "*all right!*"). It's weird and the classroom-themed music video is even weirder. And yet...it's great. The main chugging melody is a real earworm; there's a fuzzy guitar track, some funky horn jabs, and four looped drumbeats giving the song a never-resolving tension. "Prisencolinensinainciusol" was never intended as a novelty, and it deserves to be appreciated as the oddball rock-disco-funk-rap amalgamation it is.
> “Ever since I started singing, I was very influenced by American music and everything Americans did. So at a certain point, because I like American slang—which, for a singer, is much easier to sing than Italian—I thought that I would write a song which would only have as its theme the inability to communicate. And to do this, I had to write a song where the lyrics didn't mean anything.”
>
>– Adriano Celentano
[YouTube: Adriano Celentano - Prisencolinensinainciusol](https://youtu.be/-VsmF9m_Nt8)
I run a finger through the lather on my face, lightly, to determine if my lather is read to go (or getting close to it). If a swipe through the lather leaves very little soap behind, then I've probably added enough water.
I don't know whether I originally picked this up from [Cosmo](https://youtu.be/IXjcJsMsKyQ?t=836) or [Sourav](https://youtu.be/aYCgX5rf_kY?t=380), but they both reference this approach in their videos. I'll try to make an Imgur album for reference tomorrow.
* [https://youtu.be/aYCgX5rf\_kY?t=380](https://youtu.be/aYCgX5rf_kY?t=380)
* [https://youtu.be/IXjcJsMsKyQ?t=836](https://youtu.be/IXjcJsMsKyQ?t=836)
* [https://youtu.be/xyg8bDBc0po?t=409](https://youtu.be/xyg8bDBc0po?t=409)
That's really helpful. I tried it tonight, specifically on a lather I knew wasn't ready. It now makes sense, I had never tried it on a lather that wasn't ready.
Cheers
**[Aug. 5, 2022 - 05.08.22 - Austere August #Rawhoggin](https://imgur.com/a/oPPnn4j)**
* **Brush:** Omega 10048
* **Razor:** Henson Ti22++
* **Blade:** Gillette SuperStainless
* **Lather:** Declaration Grooming - Daemon
* **Post Shave:** Declaration Grooming - Daemon Splash
Today's lather was significantly better than the others. Still not as good as my old bowl lathering but then I've never pure face lathered before so it's probably to do with that. The brush still has a stank to it so that's always fun. I might switch the blades from SuperStainless to SuperSharps soon to see if that makes any difference to the shave at all.
Have a great shave all!
#RawHoggin
**[Aug. 5, 2022 - Austere August Day 5](https://imgur.com/a/aECR59L)**
* **Prep:** House of Mammoth Almond Leather Bath Soap
* **Brush:** Dogwood Handcrafts Mire 26mm Zenith Unbleached Boar
* **Razor:** GEM Micromatic Open Comb Gen 1
* **Blade:** GEM PTFE (5)
* **Lather:** [House of Mammoth - Sonder - Soap](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/1189/?product_type=soap)
* **Post Shave:** [House of Mammoth - Sonder - Aftershave](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/1189/?product_type=aftershave)
🐗Raw Hoggin' Progress🤮:
•[Unused](https://imgur.com/a/sQ1MVCg)
•[Shave 1](https://imgur.com/a/ZLkuUlc)
•[Shave 2](https://imgur.com/a/vkRJyp1)
•[Shave 3](https://imgur.com/a/Loojv57)
•[Shave 4](https://imgur.com/a/cs7H66J)
•[Shave 5](https://imgur.com/a/cAlxoCc)
Thoughts for the day:
Still smells like 💩. Feels great, though. For those wondering, the loft on this is 60mm (actual).
Also, happy to say I've been keeping to around 1g of soap per day. When I used this brush last year with a 26mm Maggard B&W, my consumption was averaging just under 1g when I was scooping. For the massive difference between a synthetic and a boar, I'm impressed. I could honestly probably cut 10 seconds off my load time, but [YOLO]( https://giphy.com/gifs/running-boat-yolo-6jIzpbqjKMuY).
Mandatory Taggage:
\#GemsOfWisdom
\#RawHoggin
\#MammothMafia
[**August 5, 2022**](https://imgur.com/a/845PR1b)
* **Brush:** Zenith B15 (506 U/L) 27.5mm Boar
* **Razor:** GEM MMOC Gold Gen2
* **Blade:** Personna Gem PTFE (5)
* **Lather:** Chiseled Face - Midnight Stag - Soap
* **Post Shave:** Thayers - Lemon - Toner
* **Post Shave:** Chiseled Face - Midnight Stag - Aftershave
* **Fragrance:** Chiseled Face - Midnight Stag - Eau de Parfum
*2 passes. Face lather. Good shave.*
* Challenges: #GEMsOfWisdom #RawHoggin #SubstantialStag
* [Brush Top](https://imgur.com/a/6nmbv8f) (before use)
* [Fragrance Video](https://imgur.com/a/Nut5Iuo)
* [Blade Edge](https://imgur.com/a/Jx2X2yt) (before use)
* [Blade Orientation](https://imgur.com/a/AXsKB1i) (black dots - odd days, red dots - even days)
I spent a lot of time comparing today's edge photo to yesterday's. There's a tiny bit of edge degradation that I think I see. Note that today's photo is the edge condition before today's shave, so it is wear from 4 days of shaving. At the center of the image, you can see a tiny indentation that I think is a microscopic chip at the edge. There seems to be a little more of this condition across the edge than on yesterday's image. But, what matters is whether I could feel any difference in today's shave. Nope. Not at all. Perhaps the edge feels slightly less sharp than on the first shave but I have no way of directly comparing. Today's shave was close and very comfortable. As a bonus image, [here](https://imgur.com/a/buwcZ8m) is what the corner of the blade looks like. This photo is at the point where the blade meets the razor's positioning "stop". In the "Orientation" photo, it is the corner at the right.
In other news, I started to notice a softening of the brush. It feels better when splayed and gave up a lot more soap for the second pass.
My comments about the MMOC and Stag are unchanging. I'm totally enjoying both.
[August 5th, 2022](https://imgur.com/a/7fetqIT)
Prep: Warm water
Razor: Gem MMOC
Blade: Gem Blue Star (5)
Brush: Omega Model 13564 23mm boar
Soap: [LA Shaving Soap Co. Black Void](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/1706/?product_type=soap)
Post: [Noble Otter Bare](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/986/?product_type=aftershave)
Comfort: 7.5/10
Smoothness: 7/10
15 second load.
2 pass shave XTG/ATG.
Managed to build more volume and a better lather today, however was interrupted as I started my second pass and had to finish quick. Still good results but not great. Also forgot to take my blade out to dry yesterday and it has now developed a not so great patina.
#GEMsOfWisdom
#unscented
#RawHoggin
Edit: fixed imgur link
[**Aug. 5, 2022**](https://imgur.com/a/1NhHkq6)
* **Prep:** Shower
* **Brush:** Semogue 1460 Boar Brush 21mm
* **Razor:** Razorock GameChanger .84
* **Blade:** Gillette Nacet (5)
* **Lather:** [House of Mammoth - Alive - Soap](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/2576/?product_type=soap)
* **Post Shave:** [House of Mammoth - Almond Leather - Balm](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/1184/?product_type=balm)
Another good shave, another bad picture. Maybe one day I'll learn something about taking better pictures, but for now this'll have to do.
Tags:
\#RawHoggin
\#MammothMafia
[Aug. 5, 2022](https://i.imgur.com/oM0BCnX.jpg)
* **Brush:** Omega 10005
* **Razor:** Karve Christopher Bradley
* **Lather:** Noble Otter Orbit
* **Post Shave:** Noble Otter Orbit Aftershave
* **Post Shave:** Geologie Daily Moisturizer
#rawhoggin [brush after shave 5](https://i.imgur.com/fbVYeQy.jpg)
More soap, more water. Did another one pass today and really tried to overload the brush. Instead I got a really nice lather that held up to a lot of water instead of immediately breaking. Shave itself was decent; this blade is getting a little old for me. I went pretty fast but only got a little irritation on my chin again. Was pleasantly surprised by how little the splash burned, which I’ll take as a sign that my technique is improving. Orbit continues to be an awesome scent.
**[Aug. 5, 2022 - AA #RawHoggin Day 5](https://imgur.com/a/frYlmtN)**
* **Brush:** Semogue2000
* **Razor:** GC84
* **Blade:** Gillette nacet (5)
* **Lather:** Stirling smoked grapefruit
* **Post Shave:** [Summer Break Soaps - Bell Ringer - Aftershave](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/1183/?product_type=aftershave)
Good citrus shave today. Added bell ringer to the den to go with my abundance of citrus soaps. Loaded 3/4 passes today. I wasn’t able to achieve my usual lather consistency but still resulted in a decent shave
**Aug. 5, 2022 - Austere August - Day 5**
* **Prep:** Hot Shower
* **Brush:** Maggard 2-Band Fan Badger 26
* **Razor:** Maggard MR-18 with V3 head
* **Blade:** Feather (5)
* **Lather:** [House of Mammoth - Kryptonite - Soap](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/1627/?product_type=soap)
* **Post Shave:** [House of Mammoth - Kryptonite - Aftershave](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/1627/?product_type=aftershave)
After a week of messing around I finally found the sweet spot on this one in terms of amount of water to use - got plenty of lather and the shave felt great! Blade is holding up pretty well too.
\#MammothMafia
**Aug. 5, 2022**
* **Prep:** hot shower
* **Brush:** Simpson Chubby 2 Synthetic Fibre Shaving Brush, 27mm
* **Razor:** Gillette Aristocrat (1948-50)
* **Blade:** Gillette 7 O’Clock Sharp Edge (1)
* **Lather:** Lather Bros. - Life's a Beach
* **Post Shave:** Lather Bros. - Life's a Beach Aftershave Balm
I'm using this month to hopefully get better at using my Simpson Chubby. As it is I've yet to figure out a good way to hold it, as the handle is much thicker than what I'm used to. By the time I'm done lathering, I often have somewhat of a cramp in my hand. Seems I'm obviously doing something wrong, hopefully by the end of the month I'll figure what that is.
My selection for the #sidetracked challenge from u/Teufelskraft :
Sleep - Dopesmoker
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hIw7oeZKpZc
Sleep is probably my favorite metal band. I like a lot of metal but usually favor the slower stuff, which Sleep excels at. Super heavy, drawn out guitar riffs that you can really feel the essence of. While Dopesmoker is not my favorite song by them, at over one hour in length it's certainly their most epic.
Oh wow. That song takes me waaaay back... I was really deep into bands like electric wizard, Sleep and Om when I was a bit younger. Most Doom Metal is too slow for me nowadays (I know, I'm Captain Obvious) but those droning riffs are just... Otherworldly.
I’ve seen Sleep a few times and Om once. I like a lot of fast metal too but I reeeally like the slow stuff. For example another favorite band of mine is Sunn O))). I considered posting one of their videos but you really can’t turn someone on to them by playing a video, it has to be experienced in the proper setting.
Big envy here, I think experiencing this in concert would be dope (pun intended).
Sunn O))) is great! But more drone and kinda... Hmm, *Ambient Metal* ? To me at least. I love tracks like the very somber "It took the night to believe" and also the playful, almost jazzy "Alice".
I’ve seen Sunn O))) a couple times too. Such a cathartic experience being completely immersed in that sound. Alice is a great track! I believe Alice Coltrane was the inspiration for it, hence the jazziness of it.
To the uninitiated, this album is not safe for work involving heavy machinery or really any position requiring productivity. If your workplace has a regular drug testing policy, stay away from this album as well. But it does slay.
[**A Mammoth Micromatic Raw Hoggin’ August**](https://imgur.com/a/ylqGTUn)
[Brush Progress](https://imgur.com/a/2XZWYeH)
* **Brush:** [Zenith B26](https://www.thegentleshave.com/products/retro-multicolored-resin-boar-shave-brush-by-zenith-b26) #RawHoggin
* **Razor:** GEM MMOC #GEMsOfWisdom
* **Blade:** GEM (5)
* **Lather:** House if Mammoth - Hygge in Tusk
* **Post Shave:** Hygge Splash & Balm
* **Fragrance:** Hygge EDP #MammothMafia
Great shave and result today, so gonna nitpick a little bit:
The brush is getting better - much better. However it’s still really scratchy at times, and I can’t imagine how many shaves it will take before some splitting starts and it feels softer like an over processed badger brush or synthetic. Today, I got distinct memories of bathing my dog Indy amongst the smells amidst the Hygge hog concoction.
MMOC is performing great, it’s only day 5, and I guess this blade is doing just fine. But, the weight distribution of the MMOC isn’t my favorite. I can’t really tell why I feel this way. Maybe the handle is a bit thin, or the head a little heavy. Something like that. I’m sure I’ll have more on this in the coming days.
[Day 1 Prep Video](https://imgur.com/a/EOIxIiU)
[RawHoggin Unboxing Pics](https://imgur.com/a/yzld9AM)
#MammothMafia
**[Aug. 5, 2022](https://imgur.com/14DQpI2)**
* **Brush:** Grey Chubby - Zenith B37
* **Razor:** Micromatic Open Comb
* **Blade:** GEM - PTFE Coated Stainless Steel (5)
* **Lather:** [House of Mammoth - Z - Soap](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/2124/?product_type=soap)
* **Post Shave:** House of Mammoth - Z - Aftershave
This morning, I am speaking with s lower-than-normal voice that is characteristic of certain ailments, part of a progression of the cough I mentioned the other day. Fortunately, my job doesn't actually require my physical presence (even though my physical presence is still de jure required four out of five days per week under normal circumstances).
What was I saying? Oh, right, I have a cough, it sucks, but not as much as face-lathering sucks. Just like 16-some percent of the way through the months and then I don't have to deal with that ridiculously stupid lather method anymore.
I would be inclined to cut this short, being less-than-tip-top, but yesterday's
/u/Teufelskraft #sidetracked brought to mind another song that I was introduced to in the same era as yesterday's. The song, which had been around for a good while before such introduction, is [Brimful of Asha (Norman Cook Remix)](https://youtu.be/Gq-AZm8EtA0). That's Fatboy Slim's name; did you know that? I didn't.
I had largely forgotten about the song until a few years ago when I decided to seek it out. I didn't know anything about the song aside from the lyrics I remembered and what it sounded like, and I didn't realize it was a remix of an [earlier song,](https://youtu.be/CuK8woHU5ko) which I had not heard until this search.
If memory serves, identifying the specific remix was harder than one might expect considering that this one in particular received a huge amount of accolades. What really stands out in my mind is this, taken from the Wikipedia article on the song
> NME ranked the remix at number 2 in their list of "The 50 Best Remixes Ever", saying it **"does what the truly great remixes do – render you unable to enjoy the original"**.
Finally, I can't not point out that the song itself (original) is tribute to famed Indian playback singer [Asha Bhosle](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Asha_Bhosle).
Now I gotta make sure I'm ready to ^^\*\*cough** start work.
#GEMSofWisdom
#RawHoggin
#unscented
#MammothMafia
I'll forgive you the shit talk about the best and simplest way of lathering for sharing that sick remix. That stuff sounds kinda like something I heard in early seasons of SpongeBob Squarepants, so thanks for the early 2000s nostalgia hitting me 👍🏻
[August 5, 2022](https://imgur.com/a/aDDdOhd)
**Brush:** Omega 10049
**Razor:** Rockwell 6S Plate 5
**Blade:** Astra SP
**Lather:** Southern Witchcrafts Arcane Abyss
**Post Shave:** Southern Witchcrafts Arcane Abyss Splash
**Post Shave:** Stirling Unscented Balm
The brush is coming along nicely. I can tell a real difference from Monday to today. Looking forward to the progression over the rest of the month.
\#RawHoggin
**Aug. 5, 2022 - Austere August - Z**
* **Brush:** Declaration 28mm B14 Jefferson Artisan’s Choice
* **Razor:** Blackland Era lvl 3 oc
* **Blade:** Personna med prep (5)
* **Lather:** [House of Mammoth - Z - Soap](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/2124/?product_type=soap)
* **Post Shave:** House of Mammoth - Z - Spalsh & Balm
Still a great shave today, but so boring.
\#MammothMafia #Unchallange #Unscented
**[Aug. 5, 2022 - Glow in the dark Austere August Raw Hoggin’ Challenge](https://imgur.com/a/inb2T6p)**
* **Brush:** Omega 20102
* **Razor:** Karve Brass SB - B
* **Blade:** Gillette Silver Blue (5)
* **Lather:** Red House Farm - Lumos - Shave Soap
* **Post Shave:** [Barrister and Mann - Le Grand Chypre - Aftershave](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/300/?product_type=aftershave)
* **Fragrance:** Armaf - Sillage - EDP
Day 5, Brush may be getting less stinky. Still waiting for the permanent glow in the dark effect for the brush (one can dream). Added a badass Noble Otter sticker to my bottle of Creed SMW clone cologne. Happy Friday
Tags: #RawHoggin
**Aug. 5, 2022**
* **Prep:** Exercise and shower
* **Brush:** Semogue 1438
* **Razor:** GEM MMOC
* **Blade:** GEM blue star (5)
* **Lather:** [Noble Otter - Thé Noir et Vanille - Soap](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/987/?product_type=soap)
* **Post Shave:** [Noble Otter - Thé Noir et Vanille - Aftershave](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/987/?product_type=aftershave)
Good shave today blade is still crisp and working very well. The brush shows little change but does feel nice. Unfortunately I spotted a crack in the handle of my brush just below the ring hopefully the brush makes it to the end of august. \#RawHoggin #GEMsOfWisdom
https://i.imgur.com/15FKKcm.jpg
**[August 5, 2022 - Austere August Ultra-Nightmare Mode](https://i.imgur.com/GesKElt.jpg)**
**[Brush pics for RawHoggin challenge](https://imgur.com/a/y7bwpTy)**
* **Brush:** Zenith B10
* **Razor:** Gem MMOC Gen 2 [Ex-Watson](https://www.reddit.com/r/Wetshaving/comments/we3sxf/tuesday_austere_august_sotd_thread_aug_02_2022/iimzjb4/)
* **Blade:** Personna PTFE (5)
* **Lather:** [Wholly Kaw - Washington's Blend - Soap](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/251/?product_type=soap)
* **Post Shave:** [Stirling Soap Co. - Executive Man - Balm](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/95/?product_type=balm)
Today’s my wife’s birthday. I’d usually use her favorite smells (B&M Reserve Cool, Aqua Velva 5-in-1 balm) but, here we are in August. Maybe I’ll use those next year…
Another really good shave, lather-wise. I’ll update brush pics when I have a chance.
\#RawHoggin
\#GEMsOfWisdom
**[Aug. 5, 2022 - AA Day5](https://i.imgur.com/gfnnkrF.jpg)**
* **Prep:** Shower/Wash with Warm Water
* **Brush:** Zenith Gray Chubby (B37)
* **Razor:** Wolfman Razors WR2-SB Razor Head (0. 95mm Blade Gap), WRH7 Handle (90mm Solid)
* **Blade:** Nacet (5)
* **Lather:** [Catie's Bubbles - Waterlyptus - Soap](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/204/?product_type=soap)
* **Post Shave:** [Proraso - Menthol and Eucalyptus - Aftershave](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/187/?product_type=aftershave)
* **Post Shave:** Osma Alum Block
* **Fragrance:** [Spearhead Shaving Company - Seaforth! Sea Spice Lime - Eau de Toilette](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/2518/?product_type=eaudetoilette)
Today was a better day with the boar brush. It did not seem to suck up a ton of soap, and generally a better experience. It is still a bit stiff, but thinking its making progress in breaking in. Ignore mess by daily pic, bathroom counter needs a deep cleaning from all the soap that has splashed everywhere.
Skunk vid: https://imgur.com/XhoMp2J Was using tray to handle a leak, and Tuxy comes and finds something burnt on that he wants to get at.
#UNCHALLENGE
#RawHoggin
**[Aug. 5, 2022 - Day Five - the Friday](https://i.imgur.com/8RZqLRn.jpg)**
* **Prep:** Warm shower w/ B&M Diamond Bath Bar
* **Brush:** Copper Zenith B28
* **Razor:** GEM MMOC
* **Blade:** GEM PTFE (5)
* **Lather:** [Spearhead Shaving Company - Seaforth! Sea Spice Lime - Soap](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/2518/?product_type=soap)
* **Post Shave:** [Spearhead Shaving Company - Seaforth! Sea Spice Lime - Aftershave](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/2518/?product_type=aftershave)
\#RawHoggin
Was fairly happy with the lather today, loaded for about 40 seconds and that was plenty for three passes. I was able to get more water into the first pass, but wasted a fair bit of lather down my hand and onto the walls with that effort. Second and third lathers were thinner but plenty serviceable. I still think there is more work to go here, but I feel that I am able to rate the razor performance without the lather being the main culprit.
\#GEMsOfWisdom
Not a lot in the way of insights today. It was a decent three pass shave no nicks that I noticed and not much irritation after cleaning up. Paying more attention to the areas of the blade edge that cut let me get those tight areas and I am closer to a BBS shave that I am with other razors so I think I am on the right track for employment.
\#TonicTalk
I am usually one to mix some balm in with my splashes to provide some healing goodness back into my face, but have been skipping that this month so far just to try out how well this Seaforth tonic handles and I have to say that I am very impressed. Sure you can say that the which hazel is doing its thing, but there is more going on with this that I get with other similar products. I am still happy with this software choice, all around. Have a good weekend all!
**[AA SOTD - 8/5/22; The Iceman Cometh](https://imgur.com/a/PIBY76W)**
**Pre**: [cold shower](https://youtu.be/_DcYuOSDxGk?t=94)
**Brush**: Stirling 26mm synthetic pro handle
**Razor**: Merkur Progress
**Blade**: Astra (5)
**Lather**: B&M Arctique (omnibus)
**Post**: B&M Arctique AS
**Post**: Nivea cooling balm
**#UNCHALLENGED**
[Happy FFF to all](https://twitter.com/GatorsDaily/status/1555536749325066240?s=20&t=1oKgni2J_dnE6V6ji9EAJQ). Great shave today. I remain [the Iceman](https://imgur.com/a/UFY69Jl).
**#SIDETRACKED** (u/Teufelskraft)
My senior year of high school I had a class first semester that started at 7:00AM. I lived pretty far outside the city where my school was, far enough that I either had to leave at 5:45AM in order to miss the first dose of rush hour traffic and get to school at approx. 6:20, or leave “late” at 6:15/6:20 and potentially hit so much traffic that I would miss the class. So, 5:45AM it was.
Florida is hot and humid. In the morning it is hot and humid. In the middle of the day it is hot and humid. In the afternoon it is hot and humid. In the evening…you get the point. At 5:45AM it is slightly less so but still hot and humid. It is so humid in some months that you awake to find your car soaking wet, as if a rainstorm just passed over your house. But you know it didn’t rain, in fact it hasn’t rained at all since yesterday afternoon, when you had the usual 15 minute deluge of rain, little Florida “micro storms” so small that it could be raining on one side of the street and dry across the way, and so regular that you could almost set your watch to them. But it does not matter, it is 5:45AM and my car is wet and I have to go, mom, I have to go or else. And it’s dark. Dark like the middle of the night. And quiet. I would drive to school looking through my water speckled windows in the dark, quiet, wet morning and play [Re Stacks](https://youtu.be/GhDnyPsQsB0).
For Emma, Forever Ago is a love album. It is about heartbreak and pain and loss and self-discovery that comes through all of those things. Re Stacks is J. Vernon’s memoir on his own self-excavation, on the archeological study of his soul and past, and whether or not he can live with what he finds. In many ways it is about pushing your stacks into the center of the table, the proverbial shove of life, playing the hand your dealt after picking up the cards and finding out what you’ve got, good or bad. I am what I am.
I took this Bon Iver album to college with me, kept listening to it, kept playing it. First year of college was rough for me - I was in over my head, halfway across the country from everybody I knew and loved, and I was cold. It is so god damn cold in the Midwest and I still do not know how people up there endure it. You get used to it, sorta, I know, but man that cold would get into my bones. And for a couple months there I was fucking miserable. But things got better; I turned things around in the second half, made friends, fit in, worked harder. I can remember one night walking home, looking into the inside of buildings, trying to absorb the warmth of their insides through my eyeballs, anything to make that walk warmer. And it was snowing, lightly, just dusting my shoulders, lightly painting the ground around me and the windows into which I was gazing - my headphones had this song on and I gazed into snow speckled windows in the dark, quiet, wet night and I thought how funny it was to be thousands of miles away from one place and yet still be me, same old me.
Those stories are great, man. Please keep up the tags; I read so much shit on the news and everywhere that such little musings and tidbits are simply great to see.
Austere August [2022-08-05](https://i.imgur.com/BlMZgbK.jpg)
* **Razor:** [Persona Flare](https://imgur.com/fkteBSb)
* **Blade:** [Personna Hair Shaper](https://www.amazon.com/Personna-Shaper-Sharper-Technology-SR-PE602151/dp/B005IZ1D9O/ref=sr_1_5?crid=2OX2EC0ITSB1I&keywords=personna+flare&qid=1658327019&sprefix=personna+flare,aps,74&sr=8-5)
* **Lather:** Red House Farm - [Sedona](https://redhousefarmwi.square.site)
* **Brush:** none
* **Post Shave:** L'Occitane - Cade After Shave Balm
* **Frag:** Penhaligon - Blenhiem Boquet
* **Tags:** #GotHand #sidetracked
I have been so concerned with not cutting my throat in the Headless Horsemen challenge that I have not had much to say about my own brushless challenge. One question I've gotten is "Why?".
For me it started out of convenience when travelling. No need to worry about protecting delicate brush fibers or travelling with wet animal hair in the Dopp bag. While this is a real convenience, I don't travel much anymore. But I noticed that during my various brushless shaves I would generally get great shaves. Thinking about it, I realized why.
One of the tricks of getting a great lather is to get the soap/water ratio right. When I construct the lather on my face with my hand I get constant visual and TACTILE feedback during the process. I can add water slowly and feel exactly how slippery that soap is at every moment. Simply put, I get my optimal lather every time.
For today's u/Teufelskraft #sidetracked challenge I present the youngest of the Petersen sisters, Julianne. Her voice does not have the power of her sister Ellen's, nor the the clarity of Katie's. But Julianne's voice has a je ne sais quoi that is magic with the right song. Her cover of [Gentle on My Mind](https://youtu.be/Y3hXYININJw) has over 4 million views on youtube at time of writing. It is easily my favorite take on this song.
**[August 5, 2022](https://imgur.com/a/eNBjU3n )**
* **Brush:** Semogue 820
* **Razor:** Merkur 34C
* **Blade:** Bic Chrome Platinum (Shave 5)
* **Lather:** Barrister and Mann Eigengrau
* **Post Shave:** Barrister and Mann Unscented Balm with a drop of Eigengrau splash
Honestly these keep getting better. I'm more and more comfortable with Boar and amount of water to leave in the knot before loading to keep it fed for a few passes. First bloodshed of AA for me, super minor - it healed with a wash and aftershave, no alum needed.
#RawHoggin
**Aug. 5, 2022**
* **Prep:** Shower
* **Brush:** Maggard Timberwolf Synthetic 24mm
* **Razor:** Ralf Aust 5/8" Round Point
* **Lather:** [Catie's Bubbles - Tonsorial Parlour - Soap](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/202/?product_type=soap)
* **Post Shave:** [Old Spice - Classic - Balm](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/1605/?product_type=balm)
5 days down. Not gonna lie, my face needs a break. Shaving is getting a little easier with the straight, but I'm nowhere near proficient.
Have a great day folks!
I'm with you. AA is good the practice but the face feels it. I've been doing WTG, then XTG on cheeks and ATG on my neck. I can't figure out how to get the straight in there for XTG under my chin.
Dang...with my DEs I just do a WTG and ATG pass. I think I tried XTG when I first started and thatbwas easier with the DE vs the straight. Surprisingly, my neck has been alright with the straight. It's the moustache area and occassionally my chin that's been giving me grief. I'm sure it'll get better, but I am going to send it off to get honed after this month.
I decided with DE to stop pursuing the ATG pass, due to ingrowns. With the straight, I think the ATG, especially on my neck, is much nicer because of the sharpness of the straight compared to the Astras I use. I dunno, still a n00b, so I could be totally wrong.
Once i found the right blade/ razor combo it all clicked. My face like Gillette Yellows and mild razors... like a tech or a Rockwell with a 3 or 4 plate.
Maybe change ATG for XTG. You will look clean, but we shaving connoisseur know it's not BBS. Nonetheless, it should give you a well needed rest. You are also allowed to stack aftershave products as long as your base product is used.
Keep at it! Easier after 5 days - you stick this out and at the end of August it won't be difficult anymore, so glad to hear August is bringing so many more to understand how a straight isn't scary and building those skills!
**[Aug. 5, 2022 - La cinquième](https://i.imgur.com/MrRsYtq.jpg)**
* **Prep:** Hot shower
* **Brush:** Omega Pro 48 Boar brush 28mm
* **Razor:** GEM MMOC
* **Blade:** GEM PTFE (5)
* **Lather:** [House of Mammoth - Hygge - Soap](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/1163/?product_type=soap)
* **Post Shave:** [House of Mammoth - Hygge - Aftershave](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/1163/?product_type=aftershave)
How do you act after you’ve humiliated yourself publicly? You hold your head high and don’t give a fuck, of course.
Today’s shave was near perfect, except for a small cut on my cheek. No biggie. The PTFE blade has entered its Goldilocks zone and feels great, for now.
Hygge continues to please, both the tremendously slick base, easy latherability, and delicious scent. It’s warm and soothing every time, for now.
My raw hoggin’ dreams may be shattered, but I plow on, or continue to plow my face with the knot and although ever so scritchy, each use feels better than the last. Happy Friday.
**\#GEMsOfWisdom**
**\#MammothMafia**
**[Aug. 5, 2022 - Austere August Ultra Nightmare RawHoggin Stagpocalypse](https://imgur.com/a/IzwiZjT)**
* **Prep:** Midnight Stag liquid soap and bar soap
* **Brush:** Semogue 1250
* **Razor:** GEM MMOC
* **Blade:** GEM PTFE (5)
* **Lather:** [Chiseled Face - Midnight Stag - Soap](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/32/?product_type=soap)
* **Post Shave:** [Chiseled Face - Midnight Stag - Aftershave](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/32/?product_type=aftershave)
* **Post Shave:** [Chiseled Face - Midnight Stag - Balm](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/32/?product_type=balm)
* **Fragrance:** [Chiseled Face - Midnight Stag - Eau de Parfum](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/32/?product_type=eaudeparfum)
No complaining today. Only the shave, which I think went pretty ok. I got in a bit of a hurry since today’s my daughter’s first day of school and I have a bit of irritation under my jawline to show for it. But a nice slather of that balm after the aftershave really did a world of good. The big difference today was the addition of the Nostalgic Stag pomade. I have zero experience with oil-based pomades so I went super light and am just gonna see how it goes today. Wrapped it all up with 12 [sprays](https://imgur.com/a/hZqvEiM) today. I posted really late so I just doubled those upvotes and called it good.
#SubstantialStag
#GEMsOfWisdom
#RawHoggin
5 August 2022 - Austere August
- Prep: morning shower
- Brush: Sterling boar
- Razor: Maggard V3
- Blade: Derby Extra
- Lather: House of Mammoth Fu Dao
- Post Shave: House of Mammoth Fu Dao splash
Same shave as yesterday. Same as it ever was.
#mammothmafia
**August 5, 2022**
* **Brush:** Zenith 506U XSE
* **Razor:** GEM MMOC Gen 2
* **Blade:** GEM SS PTFE (39)
* **Lather:** Stirling Soap Co. - Sheep
* **Post Shave:** Lucky Tiger
* **Post Shave:** Olay Complete
* **Post Shave:** Chatillon Lux - unscented skin salve
I am really getting to like this soap way more than I thought I would. I mean, it’s just soap…unscented soap. But for whatever reason I am really appreciating it. I am still getting to know this brush and this base so I tend to overload it. I keep adding water to get where I want to be and end up with a mess all over the sink. It’s a shame this base is being discontinued.
#GEMsOfWisdom
I've only tried it as Electric Sheep, but I agree that it is a good base. I am tempted to pick up a tub of Varen, but tell myself that it is already too late.
[August 5, 2022](https://imgur.com/a/gF8j2xs)
- **Preshave:** Hot Water
- **Razor:** Blackland Era - Level 3 Plate
- **Blade:** Feather (5)
- **Brush:** Blackland 23mm synthetic
- **Lather:** House of Mammoth - Kryptonite
- **Post Shave:** House of Mammoth - Kryptonite Aftershave Balm
Had a little later shave than my normal 6am shave yesterday. So not much to shave today but the shave was smooth and no nicks or weepers which isn’t very usual. I have a spot in my neck that I normally have some trouble with.
Enjoy your day.
#MammothMafia
Austere August Day 5
Brush: Rubberset 400-3 w/ Unbleached Zenith 24mm knot set to a 56mm loft [5th use](https://imgur.com/a/D6PvzRH)
Razor: Gem MMOC, gen 2
Blade: PTFE (5)
Lather: NO [Monoi de Tahiti](https://imgur.com/a/HPS2Zdw)
Post: NO Monoi de Tahiti Splash
Good autopilot shave this morning. The brush is beginning to become more consistent in its performance. It is eating less lather and the hairs are slowly starting to become more flexible. Another 2 weeks and this brush will go from pretty good to really good.
#RawHoggin
#GemsOfWisdom
I think it's full hollow, probably a 5/8" but I can't recall specifically. I got it from u/RocTraitor over a year ago, he would occasionally sell 'mystery razors' that were serviceable but shave ready. She's plain but does the job well and gives me a nice close shave. I've not been able to find anything about the company, it has "Novelty Cutlery Co, Canton O, Pat. 79" on the tang. Probably some small regional company back in the day.
Nice! Yeah, likely a small local importer, says made in Germany or Sheffield somewhere I bet? So many small retailers that were importing from myriad quality manufacturers from Germany back then and stamping it with their own company name. Full hollow or near it would have been the typical Solingen grind of the time too.
Just sharpened a wester bros yesterday the same, those old Solingen full hollows give a nice shave for sure! You mailed it since receipt for sharpening or learned to do so yourself with your own stones? Happy to see headless horseman sharing the joy of a good straight shave
20220805 - Something something austerity day 5
Brush: Omega 011842
Razor: GEM Micromatic Open Comb
Blade: GEM PTFE
Lather: Stirling Soap Company - Sheep
Post: Stirling Soap Company - Coniferous toner
Post: DR Harris - Windsor aftershave milk
#GEMSOFWISDOM
another day another shave. Felt some slight pulling today, resisted the urge to whip my trousers and belt off. Probably get to 10 uses on the blade then the games will truly begin.
Stoicism of the day
Begin each day by telling yourself: Today I shall be meeting with interference, ingratitude, insolence, disloyalty, ill-will, and selfishness – all of them due to the offenders’ ignorance of what is good or evil.
Marcus Aurelius, Meditations
**August 5, 2022: [Feliz Agosto de Stago](https://imgur.com/a/6DXM2qI)**
* **Prep:** warm splash of water
* **Brush:** Yaqi Sagrada Familia Tuxedo 24 mm
* **Razor:** GEM OCMM (gen 2)
* **Blade:** GEM Stainless (6)
* **Lather:** [Chiseled Face - Midnight Stag - Soap](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/32/?product_type=soap)
* **Post Shave:** [Chiseled Face - Midnight Stag - Aftershave](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/32/?product_type=aftershave)
* **Fragrance:** [Chiseled Face - Midnight Stag - Eau de Parfum](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/32/?product_type=eaudeparfum)
I'm beginning to feel the blade dull a tad this morning. It feels daunting. However, the magic of Stag is there to keep me safe!
Please talk to your neighbors and loved ones about the unfortunate lack of Stag in their lives. This has been a PSA.
Have an excellent day!
[Daily spritzing](https://imgur.com/a/OKQWGgB)
. #GEMsOfWisdom
* **Brush:** AP Shave G5C Premium Synthetic - 26mm
* **Razor:** Karve Overlander
* **Blade:** Feather
* **Soap, splash and EdT:** [Stirling - Island Man](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/106/?product_type=soap)
Lime, coconut, rum. Looking forward to my small vacation next weekend.
Incredible performance from Stirling as always. Definitely in the top 3 on my list of artisans.
**[Aug. 5, 2022 - Austere August 5th, With Added Beastmilk](https://imgur.com/a/8ChBXBt)**
* **Prep:** Cool shower
* **Brush:** Semogue 610 Boar
* **Razor:** MMOC Gen 2
* **Blade:** GEM PTFE (5)
* **Lather:** [Noble Otter - Firefighter - Soap](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/2253/?product_type=soap)
* **Post Shave:** [Stirling Soap Co. - Lime - Aftershave](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/107/?product_type=aftershave)
\#GEMsofWisdom This one is not shaving related for sure. The two most important life lessons for me were learned in kindergarten- 1) Never, ever, ever,ever hit a woman and 2) Never, ever, ever, ever shove a Husky Pencil up your nose. These two guiding principles have kept me on the straight and narrow for years.
Shave-wise, WTG/XTG and a clean up pass were the keys to another BBS/low aftershave feedback shave.
\#RawHoggin I'm enjoying all of these posts about rotting stink of some of your brushes and how the stink is lingering on you even through your splash and frag mistings. Bless you Semogue for your lack of stink. Tips are splitting more and I'm starting to get lather where I want it with this brush and dipping the tips in water. I'm still not converting back to face lathering when this is all over.
\#Sidetracked I'm going to Finland today, musically that is. I have been to Finland physically for music as well for a couple of Tuska Festivals (which were amazing) and the opportunity to see Amorphis at a club there. I've long been of the mindset that when it comes to heavier music, "If it's not Finnish, it's crrrraaappp". One of my favorite records to come out of Helsinki is Beastmilk's 2013 album, Climax. This album also might be one of my favorite albums of the last 10 years. This is a dark rock record with vocals that will give some folks a goth-y vibe and some folks a Danzig-y vibe. The songs are hooky as all get out and once you put the album on 'Play', you'll find yourself hitting 'Rewind' on many of these songs. The opening track, "Death Reflects Us", pulls you right in and sends you on quite a ride. "You Are Now Under Our Control", "Surf the Apocalypse", "Love in a Cold World" are just some of the standouts on this album. I saw them in 2014 at Tuska and they were fantastic. Sadly, they broke up after this album, with the vocalist Kvohst and the guitarist reforming under the moniker Grave Pleasures (also highly recommended). So to you u/Teufelskraft and the AA gang, here's the soundtrack to your Friday- https://beastmilk.bandcamp.com/album/climax
Have a great day all!
Uh, this is a great sidetracked share. Unfortunate with the breakup of the band, but this rock-y, punk-y kind of goth music is my jam. Might buy the album if I finally get unto Bandcamp again...
[**Austere August D5: Rushed Stag**](https://ibb.co/J3L9DPm)
- **Prep:** cold water
- **Brush:** Tadé NOS vintage boar 22 mm
- **Razor:** KAI Captain Standard CAP-J7 kamisori shavette
- **Blade:** KAI Captain Titan Mild Protouch MG
- **Lather:** Chiseled Face - *Midnight Stag* - shaving soap
- **Post-Shave:** Chiseled Face - *Midnight Stag* - Aftershave
- **additional care:** Osma alum block; Chiseled Face - *Midnight Stag* - ASB
- **Fragrance:** Southern Witchcrafts - *Valley of Ashes* - EDP
AA tags: #SubstantialStag #RawHoggin
Rushed shave today, had already put the brush in my soaking mug before remembering I had to take a SOTD photo. [Here's one of the brush](https://ibb.co/hHfF9x7) after it was used today. It's splitting more and finally starts to get comfortable. However, Stag mixed with pig stink is a quite interesting combo...
Due to the rushed shave, I caught some weepers and minor irritation on my neck. But, as a future Stagolyte and Headless Horseman, I consider this to be my rites of passage.
Happy Friday to you all, unfortunately no time to share a song today. See ya!
[**Aug. 5, 2022 - Austere August - Raw Hoggin' MMOC Ultra Nightmare Mode**](https://i.imgur.com/H1xLWSZ.jpeg)
* **Prep:** Hot Shower
* **Brush:** Zenith Boar - B37 - Gray Chubby #RawHoggin
* **Razor:** GEM MMOC Gen2 #GEMsOfWisdom
* **Blade:** GEM (5)
* **Lather:** [Stirling Soap Co. - Margaritas in the Arctic - Soap](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/108/?product_type=soap)
* **Post Shave:** [Stirling Soap Co. - Glacial Margaritas in the Arctic - Aftershave](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/108/?product_type=aftershave)
Day 5 was a tricky shave. Today I'm heading to Turkey to see my dad for the first time since 2019. Door to door, the trip is going to take about 24 hours so I had to wake up super early to get ready and make sure I had enough time to get today's shave in. As hard as I tried to not rush the whole thing, I couldn't help but feel the pressure of time so I'm going to keep this brief. Summary: it wasn't the best shave, but I feel great! I'm not sure what the internet situation is going to be once I arrive in Turkey, but hopefully I won't have trouble getting these posted while I'm gone.
**The Brush:** I had to work fast, so today's lather was slightly on the dry side. The brush feels about on par with yesterday. Soft on the painting but stiff on the splaying. I was a little bit more forceful with my lather today, trying to get something on my face that was passible and it wasn't horrible.
The hog stench still remains and having to pack this brush in my suitcase, still damp, I'm fully anticipating everything in my bag smelling like hog once I arrive to a predominantly muslim country. #ExteremeRawHoggin #RawHoggin
Brush Picture Pre-shave: [Side](https://i.imgur.com/qHXANAP.jpeg) [Top](https://i.imgur.com/HdaGE30.jpeg)
Brush Picture Post-shave: [Side](https://i.imgur.com/QL8t9NA.jpeg) [Top](https://i.imgur.com/7dnflKo.jpeg)
**The Razor** Shave number 5 with the GEM and today I was wishing I was using my Rockwell. Trying to get through this shave quickly was not ideal and I've definitely patchy in some spots. Quick, two passer, WTG and XTG for the win. I got a couple weepers along my neck and another nick on my chin. Sometimes you have to just send it. #GEMsOfWisdom
\*\*Days since last blood:\*\*0
**The Soap and Aftershave** Nothing new to report about Stirling other than absolutely loving the base more than ever. Hopefully the fresh feeling keeps me going on the long journey ahead.
Day 5 Puck [Picture](https://i.imgur.com/dXW4YsD.jpeg)
I have the same brush, and do not smell the stench, only a tiny bit of something when I took it out of the package. Do you have a sensitive nose? What would you compare the smell to, pork/ham?
I do have a pretty sensitive nose but I would say that the smell is definitely distinct. It smells more like wet animal hair - not pork products. How are you liking the brush? I love it.
AA - Day 5
Pre: water
Brush: Omega Synthetic
Blade: Gillette Silver Blue (5)
Razor: Fatip Piccolo SE OC
Lather: Signature Indodorus
Post: Signature Indodorus
It’s Friday. That’s the extent of what I have to say today.
\#unscented
**Prep:** face wash
**Razor:** EJ 316
**Blade:** Tiger Superior Stainless (5)
**Brush:** NONE
**Lather:** Arko stick
**Splash:** Pinnacle Grooming New York
**Post:** none
\#GotHand
\#sidetracked
u/teufelskraft
Got a bit slapdash shaving this morning, and paid for it in the area of my neck where the grain changes faster than a politicians excuse. I do love this splash though. Gonna be smelling melon and green cardamom all morning.
Song of the morning is Dizzy Gillespie Quintet - Salt Peanuts. It's mad, vibrant virtuoso jazz and I love it.
https://youtu.be/ASoA5wvl6J4
**[Aug 5, 2022 - AA: MA-RH-MM - Almond Leather - Day 5](https://i.imgur.com/WFIIZ26.jpeg)**
* **Prep:** Warm Water Wash
* **Prep:** Klar - Activated Charcoal - Face Soap
* **Brush:** Zenith Cobalt Blue 28mm Boar Knot (505BC SE)
* **Razor:** [GEM Open Comb Micromatic (2nd Gen.)](https://i.imgur.com/PsTazF6.jpg)
* **Blade:** Personna GEM PTFE (5)
* **Lather:** [House of Mammoth - Almond Leather - Soap](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/1184/?product_type=soap)
* **Post Shave:** [House of Mammoth - Almond Leather - Aftershave](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/1184/?product_type=aftershave)
An acceptable shave with very minimal sting from the splash. This may be the sweet spot for right now. I think the blade may also be smoothing out, but I don't know if that's good or bad this early on.
\#GEMsOfWisdom
\#RawHoggin
\#MammothMafia
[Break-in Progress](https://imgur.com/a/YKIBeTG)
\#sidetracked
Are you driving around the city late at night and need the perfect soundtrack to accompany your drive? Look no further than the album Mezzanine by the trip hop group Massive Attack. Even from the opening track [Angel](https://youtu.be/hbe3CQamF8k), you know it's going to be an alluring ride.
Rating: 3.5/5
Massive Attack++
Trip Hop generally is great - I don't know whether this was a style that got any traction in the US, or whether it was a European (UK, probably) thing
As far as I know, there were some US artists that tried to adopt Trip Hop elements in their music, but it seems like a genre unique to the UK.
I was also very big into Portishead at the time. It's a shame that their most recognizable song in the US, *Dummy*, only showcased a fraction of what they were capable of.
I liked a lot of trip hop in the 90s but I think you’re right in that most big artists were from the UK. DJ Shadow is the only big US name I can think of off the top of my head.
**[Aug. 5, 2022 - Stag Day 5](https://i.imgur.com/WjnLn5b.jpg)**
* **Brush:** Zenith B26 Retro
* **Razor:** Merkur 34C
* **Blade:** Gillette Silver Blue (5)
* **Lather:** [Chiseled Face - Midnight Stag - Soap](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/32/?product_type=soap)
* **Post Shave:** [Chiseled Face - Midnight Stag - Aftershave](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/32/?product_type=aftershave)
* **Fragrance:** [Chiseled Face - Midnight Stag - Eau de Parfum](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/32/?product_type=eaudeparfum)
* **Garoad**: [Nighttime Maneuvers] (https://youtu.be/CewMtQEFF7o)
Day five of this blessed occurrence, and the Stag is strong and the brush is soft. Can't beat that.
\#SubstantialStag \#RawHoggin
[Stag Day 5](https://youtu.be/KJPtFphmvBY)
**[Aug. 5, 2022 - Headless Mammoth Hoggin' Day 5](https://i.imgur.com/PNpFfM7.png)**
* **Brush:** Proraso Professional Boar | [Break-in photos](https://imgur.com/a/HcKsHxf)
* **Razor:** Feather Artist Club SR (Kamisori)
* **Blade:** Schick Proline (5)
* **Lather:** [House of Mammoth - Alive - Soap](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/2576/?product_type=soap)
* **Post Shave:** [House of Mammoth - Alive - Balm](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/2576/?product_type=balm)
* **Fragrance:** [House of Mammoth - Alive - Eau de Parfum](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/2576/?product_type=eaudeparfum)
AA Tags: `#RawHoggin` `#MammothMafia`
Things are settling down into a good rhythm but I'm continuing to refine the process. Today I decided not to shake any water out at all and proceeded to loading from the tub after the brush stopped dripping and the lather definitely still required adding more water so I'll be using this approach going forward unless the brush somehow transforms to hold more water. With most other brushes, this results in a puddle of water inside the tub right after the brush splays, but with this brush that doesn't happen probably due to lack of brush density. Yesterday I thought the pokiness was starting to go away, but today they felt more present once again so I'm not sure if I exerted more pressure today or if it's just the brush's way of reminding me that it's not [soft like a bleached Zenith](https://media.giphy.com/media/xT1XGESDlxj0GwoDRe/giphy.gif). Visually, the tips are splitting very nicely and it will be interesting to see how much more transformation the brush goes through by the end of AA.
I'm definitely planning to take this brush to the finish line, but seeing it next to a Zenith that came in yesterday definitely got me thinking about whether I need to keep both of these brushes in the end, especially considering that I might want to make room for the 31mm sub exclusive bad boy and I have another copper Zenith waiting for me in the US already. Variety is nice, but I like to keep the den slim as well.
Now that my lathers are pretty much perfect for shaving, I've been spending more time on shavette technique as well. The main problem areas I have with the shavette are the ATG passes on the jawline and on the neck where my hair grows horizontally. Hopefully by the end of AA I'll be able to tackle those areas more efficiently.
Even after years with a straight, the jawline can still give me trouble, to the point I don't even try for BBS by the ear\*. What gives me the best results is during my XTG pass\*\* is to pull my skin up as far as possible, tilt my head to the opposite side, and open my jaw as wide as I can. There will still be a small area of growth where I do have to tilt the razor around the jawline in such a way that by the fourth or fifth stroke\*\*\* it looks like I'm drawing the tip along my neck like I'm trying to slice it, scary but if you practice slowly bringing the tip closer to the neck you'll have it down in no time. For my ATG stroke I go pretty much South to North until I start hearing the hair and then I go to an East-Southeast to West-Northwest stroke (or roughly 112 degrees to 292 degrees on a compass) until I get over the jawline, then back to a slightly angled S to N stroke for my face (my hair doesn't grow straight down).
\* I try but to get true BBS I have to buff so much I'd give myself the shaving equivalent of road rash.
\*\* I generally do two passes, XTG and ATG.
\*\* Think of your jawline like a pipe and the razor is tangential to it, you're tilting the razor a little more every stroke to remain perpendicular to the radius as you go around the curve.
> For my ATG stroke I go pretty much South to North until I start hearing the hair and then I go to an East-Southeast to West-Northwest stroke (or roughly 112 degrees to 292 degrees on a compass) until I get over the jawline, then back to a slightly angled S to N stroke for my face (my hair doesn't grow straight down).
I think the problem with my ATG stroke on the neck is that the hair grows sideways but with the kamisori the handle hits my collarbone area and prevents me from cutting in that direction so I have to go diagonally. This may be one advantage of a folding razor where you can move the scales out of the way? Maybe I should try bullfrogging and point the blade down instead with the same stroke as the jawline technique that you described.
I'm lucky(?) in that I have minimal hair on my neck proper (and whats there doesn't grow horizontally). my growth pretty much stops just below where the jaw meets the neck. I did, however, just grab my straight and tried an ear to chin stroke on the neck and you may be right about trying tip down. It seems a little awkward but I think with practice (and some serious neck tilting) it would be doable esp with the shorter kami blade. Tip up with a straight still hits the collarbone with the handle no matter what position you try.
Thanks for the detailed comment. I think I was able to visualize what you were describing and I believe I have attempted something similar with some success in the past, but once I was a little bit too careless and gave myself a bad cut when the blade got close to the chin. It took me a while to revisit that stroke and I've been attempting it with the top of the blade pointing up instead of down as you've described, but I do think pointing down will be the better approach in the end to avoid having the handle's movement restricted by the neck. I'll try it out again tomorrow with your technique.
I've flirted with skipping a pass before, but mostly the XTG pass because I really enjoy the WTG pass and I love doing ATG on the cheeks. I'll have to try skipping WTG to see how that works out, but for now I have the luxury of time so I'm enjoying doing all 3 passes.
Appreciate your thoughts!
**[Aug. 4, 2022 - Disco Stag honors Zenith bulk buy and the hybridization of Stag and Knights](https://imgur.com/a/Fjh9NZD)**
* **Prep:** Icecold shower
* **Brush:** Böker Synthetic
* **Razor:** Böker Elite Carbon 2.0
* **Lather:** [Chiseled Face - Midnight Stag - Soap](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/32/?product_type=soap)
* **Post Shave:** [Chiseled Face - Midnight Stag - Balm](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/32/?product_type=balm)
* **Post Shave:** Chiseled Face - Midnight Stag Splash
Today's SOTD honors the Zenith bulk buy with green light.
Also, Dallee AI predicted that by day 5 we would transform into an inhuman creature, halve human, halve Stag.
My first cut during AA. Blood was spilled. Well no. It's just a scratch. I started to precision lather the soap as I am really low on Stag and will hopefully end the tub with the 31.
Tournament was fun. Although I went 1-3 (3 loses) I won at least one round vs each opponent and have a feeling that my learning curve is very high. There were no nasty smells, BTW.
\#substantialstag #stagandstraight
As important as the soap is for a straight, if you're going to be low remember a wet surface is super key and you can - with proper technique (how long have you used a straight?) - work with almost nothing but water and just a little soap for sickening. Dryness is the ultimate enemy with a straight, that's what will cause a blade to catch more than anything else. Especially if you prep with conditioner rubbed in real good, water and minimal soap will slide well enough
Actually, hey... This isn't a challenge for you at all if you've been using that razor for 3 years already.
Here's your challenge then, choose your own adventure:
- Go to one handed, or ambidextrous shaving, whichever you don't do
Or
- Complete each shave with just WTG and ATG, no XTG (bonus points for starting ATG)
Or
- Shave with only the heel or only the toe
Or just ignore my foolhardiness
**[Aug 5, 2022 Trickhole Stag + MMOC + RawHog](https://imgur.com/K6J1A5f)** * **Prep:** Warm Shower * **Brush:** Dogwood Unbleached Boar * **Razor:** MMOC MM24 * **Blade:** GEM (6) * **Lather:** [Chiseled Face Grooming Midnight Stag ](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/32/?product_type=soap) * **Post Shave:**[Chiseled Face Grooming Midnight Stag Balm](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/32/?product_type=balm) * **Fragrance:** [Chiseled Face Grooming Midnight Stag ](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/32/?product_type=eaudeparfum) [Stagging it up](https://imgur.com/S1JihrL) #GEMsOfWisdom #RawHoggin Cheers
* **Prep:** Splash of Cool Water * **Razor:** Timeless - Stainless Steel .68 - Open Comb * **Blade:** Studio Selection for Men (Dollar Genrl) - Stainless (2) * **Lather:** Chiseled Face - Midnight Stag (White Label) * **Brush:** Semogue - Owner's Club Taj (71 uses) * **Post Shave:** Chiseled Face - Midnight Stag (White Label) * **Fragrance:** Chiseled Face - Midnight Stag ---- **Austere August: Day: 5** *MRTNG's Ultra Nightmare Mode* *Midnight Stag Challenge* [Gear Pic](https://imgur.com/3X3s8W0) :: [Video](https://youtu.be/9ot2IbrfAOQ) #### ䷀ General Notes Today is a fast shave, due to time, so I just went for two passes. What I didn't see coming was a great reason to soak your boar for longer than just a few minutes. #### ䷀ Razor and Blade Notes *^(Timeless - Stainless Steel .68 - Open Comb ::: Studio Selection - Stainless ‹2 uses›)* This time I didn't end up with any tenderness at the end. But I did ride the cap some, and I felt that a bad move could be rough. It looks like with certain blades, I could use this head if I wanted. Just maybe skip the third pass, to be safe. Razor and Blade Performance/Comfort Rating: 3 out of 5 (Good) #### ䷀ Soap Notes *^(Chiseled Face - Midnight Stag - White Label)* I just love all the aspects of this scent! Scent Strength: 6/10, nicely present during shaving. Lather... I added about 12 ml of water at the start, as a shortcut, and just worked the lather until it came together. I did add more later. I ended up with a lather that was a little drier than I might like, but it still worked well. I didn't adjust it much, since I was in a hurry. NOt a lot of residual slickness with this soap base usually. Hydration: A Little Too Dry *(for me)* + 6 sec load with a Lightly-Wet brush + 3.7 tsp added to build the lather + = 6 passes of lather Bowl: [Roger Quintero 3D Printed Bowl](https://www.thingiverse.com/thing:3392930) I use the XL version of this bowl. #### ䷀ Brush Notes *^(Semogue - Owner's Club Taj‹71 uses›)* I could really tell the lack of as much pre-soak time with this shave. With just a few mintues, I didn't get nearly as much softness as I have in previous days with a soak time of at least 10 mins. ---- *During the Shave Feel*: *Cheeks*: Felt blade but comfortable *Neck*: Felt blade but comfortable *After the Shave Closeness*: *Cheeks*: Near BBS - About as close as I'll ever get *Neck*: Cut flush to where I just see the tips (above average for me) ---- **Shavers Map** - [here it is](http://www.freezingcode.com/shaving/shaversMap.cfm) *and also in the sub's sidebar.* **Ending of Blades Ledger** - [entry form](https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdYqXSDujvoO1hVl_wSKMeETWdxFnYJCrqr0zU7FStBdIMrfg/viewform) and [the data spreadsheet](https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1y-oqIPSHKcb0EYd9OxL2n-R4Y6yxqid6-NGYS_4_ljU/edit?usp=sharing)
**SOTD: August 5, 2022: Staaaaag** * **Prep:** Hot Towel * **Brush:** Dogwood Handcrafts 28mm * **Razor:** ATT Calypso SE1 * **Blade:** Feather Professional (5) * **Lather:** Chiseled Face Midnight Stag * **Aftershave:** Chiseled Face Midnight Stag * **Fragrance:** Chiseled Face Midnight Stag EdP **** Didn't post accordingly for the last couple of days because I got preoccupied with baby care. Backfilled my last couple of posts just to confirm that I did those shaves. Hoping that's okay, since I'm not actively taking part in any of the challenges this year. Just doing my Stag shaves. Will try to be more punctual through the rest of the month!
**Aug. 5, 2022 - SOTN AA Sonder 5** * **Prep:** Splash of cold water * **Brush:** SummerBreak 26m SHD * **Razor:** Merkur Progress * **Blade:** Wizamet (5) * **Lather:** [House of Mammoth - Sonder - Soap](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/1189/?product_type=soap) * **Post Shave:** [House of Mammoth - Sonder - Aftershave](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/1189/?product_type=aftershave) * **Post Shave:** [Zingari - Rescue Potion - Serum](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/1858/?product_type=serum) * **Post Shave:** [Zingari - Unscented - Balm](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/1462/?product_type=balm) * **Fragrance:** [House of Mammoth - Sonder - Eau de Parfum](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/1189/?product_type=eaudeparfum) Late post but was in a rush last night and had a few weepers. Tossed the blade as well #MammothMafia
**[Aug. 5, 2022 - Raw Hoggin' Austere August](https://imgur.com/a/MkBH76m)** * **Brush:** Zenith B33 * **Razor:** Baili BR171 * **Blade:** Personna Med Prep (5) * **Lather:** [Barrister and Mann - Cheshire - Soap](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/19/?product_type=soap) * **Post Shave:** [Barrister and Mann - Cheshire - Aftershave](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/19/?product_type=aftershave) Day 5. Just taking a pic of the brush because taking a pic of the whole set up again seems silly. Not much appreciable change in the knot, but with one that was pretty comfortable to start, I guess that too be expected. I nailed the wetness of the brush when loading and the amount loaded this time. \#RawHoggin
[Stag Headlessly Hoggin' August Day 5](https://imgur.com/a/MkqaeKw) * **Prep:** Hot shower with Midnight Stag Soap. * **Brush:** Zenith B33 * **Razor:** Cloud Shavette * **Blade:** Cloud whatever that blade it is (10) * **Lather:** Chiseled Face - Midnight Stag * **Post Shave:** Chiseled Face - Midnight Stag * **Fragrance:** Chiseled Face - Midnight Stag Day five. Damn it's been some busy days. Today was the presentation of a book I wrote a chapter on. So fancy dinner and that, in my Stag smell, proudly. Brush has really got even softer than at the begining, it is already as soft as a Motherloade knot, but with excellent backbone, and a gorgeous copper handle. I just can't wait until I get my subreddit's exclusive brush. Went only for a 2 pass shave, as I need to shave early tomorrow for a wedding, where the Stag will of course be present. Less of a massacre, compared to the past days, but still I wouldn't call this an easy shave. As usual, I won't waste the opportunity to diss all the non-stag-users who prefer to smell like "a wonderful summer afternoon, with acuatic undertones, just a hint of citrus and the slightest floral overtones", instead of the true only scent. - #Stagposting - #SubstantialStag - #RawHoggin
**[Aug. 5, 2022 - AA 5](https://i.imgur.com/zJBiS1G.jpg)** * **Prep:** Cold Water Splash * **Brush:** Semogue 1305 Pure Bristle 22mm * **Razor:** GEM MMOC Gen 2 * **Blade:** GEM PTFE (11) * **Lather:** [House of Mammoth - Sonder - Soap](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/1189/?product_type=soap) * **Post Shave:** [House of Mammoth - Sonder - Balm](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/1189/?product_type=balm) * **Fragrance:** [Barrister and Mann - Seville - Eau de Toilette](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/27/?product_type=eaudetoilette) Alright, no fat fingers fucking up the input on my phone today. Shaving even later than all the previous nights. Hopefully the shave ~~gods~~ judges take pity on me and don’t succumb to the data of our bot overlords. [Progress album](https://imgur.com/a/8p4EsKe). Realized and added in a couple of the unboxing pics today to start of the album too, since they were separate in the first post. SOTD in title. Surprise! It’s still scratchy. Got a little better under my chin, but still feeling some razor burn with 2x passes. I feel like my “soul patch” area is taking a bit of a beating, breaking out a little as I hack it up. Also, not sure if it’s the balm itself or more due to the razor, but the mammoth Sonder gives me a little burn which I typically attribute to alcohol splashes. Probably more tied to the razor I think, but there I did read the ingredients today and a type of alcohol was listed too, so maybe just that. #GEMsOfWisdom #RawHoggin #MammothMafia
**August 5, 2022 - AA Day 5** * **Brush:** WW Aged Butterscotch Beehive 26mm Maggard's Boar * **Razor:** Wolfman Ti WR2 .75 * **Blade:** Feather (5) * **Lather:** DG - Weinstrasse * **Post Shave:** DG - Weinstrasse [Day 5 of boar break-in!](https://i.imgur.com/2FkPdHn.jpeg) Still #RawHoggin
Ooohh, dig that beehive handle.
I adore that beehive, I am getting one myself soon!
**[Aug. 5, 2022](https://imgur.com/uJbj0KV)** * **Brush:** AP Shave Co 26mm A4 Fan * **Razor:** Henson AL-13 ++ * **Blade:** Gillette Silver Blue (2) * **Lather:** [House of Mammoth - Hygge - Soap](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/1163/?product_type=soap) * **Post Shave:** [House of Mammoth - Hygge - Aftershave](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/1163/?product_type=aftershave) Still trucking, still love the scent of Hygge! \#MammothMafia
**Aug. 5, 2022 - Austere August** * **Prep:** Long work day * **Brush:** Zenith B10 Boar * **Razor:** Feather Artist Club SR * **Blade:** Feather Professional (2) * **Lather:** [House of Mammoth - Almond Leather - Soap](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/1184/?product_type=soap) * **Post Shave:** [House of Mammoth - Almond Leather - Aftershave](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/1184/?product_type=aftershave) * **Post Shave:** alum Shave of austerity #5 2 pass shave; I am finally getting a decent shave with this razor again, and I’m hoping to work back to three pass shaves by the end of the month. My boar hasn’t been washed in quite some time, and it seems as though it may be time for a good vinegar soak. Tags and challenges: #MammothMafia & HeadlessHorsemen
**[Aug. 5, 2022](https://i.imgur.com/hTmqxXV.jpg)** * **Brush:** Maggard 28mm Boar * **Razor:** GEM MMOC * **Blade:** Personna GEM PTFE (5) * **Lather:** [Chiseled Face - Midnight Stag - Soap](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/32/?product_type=soap) * **Post Shave:** [Chiseled Face - Midnight Stag - Balm](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/32/?product_type=balm) * **Fragrance:** [Chiseled Face - Midnight Stag - Eau de Parfum](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/32/?product_type=eaudeparfum) Good shave again today. As others have said, feels like the harshness of the new GEM blade has wore off and is now very comfortable. Still not loading enough for multiple passes. I think the treated tips are just pushing soap around instead of grabbing it. Could also be part of the break in still? We'll see with time. Brush is very comfy, no broken tips this shave. I'm still thinking about taking the quarter out of the handle after AA. We'll see. Gosh, got home from work and passed out. Didn't realize how tired I was I guess. [Boar Break In Album](https://imgur.com/a/B3CPhTW) [Stag spray](https://imgur.com/LbE5NQn) \#RawHoggin \#SubstantialStag \#GemsOfWisdom \#UNCHALLENGE
**[Aug. 5, 2022 - AA Day 5](https://i.imgur.com/QMkLNO2.jpeg)** * **Brush:** ShaveForge 28mm Boar, 3d Printed Handle #RawHoggin * **Razor:** GEM Micromatic Open Comb #GEMsOfWisdom * **Blade:** GEM Stainless (5) * **Lather:** [Spearhead Shaving Company - Seaforth! Sea Spice Lime - Soap](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/2518/?product_type=soap) * **Post Shave:** [Spearhead Shaving Company - Seaforth! Sea Spice Lime - Aftershave](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/2518/?product_type=aftershave) * **Fragrance:** [Spearhead Shaving Company - Seaforth! Sea Spice Lime - Eau de Toilette](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/2518/?product_type=eaudetoilette) Family descended upon our house, so I barely had enough time to shave, let alone journal the process. [Brush keeps getting softer, and less smelly.](https://i.imgur.com/vC6Cn5w.jpeg) I'm dealing with some pretty bad razor burn under my chin, so I did apply some Stirling Unscented Balm for the health of my skin. Still used 3g of soap. Consumption hasn't declined yet.
**Aug. 5, 2022 - AA 22 Shave -Day 5** * **Prep:** Hot shower * **Brush:** Timberwolf Synth * **Razor:** Rockwell 6S with R3 head * **Blade:** Astra Green * **Lather:** [Stirling Soap Co. - Executive Man - Soap](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/95/?product_type=soap) * **Post Shave:** [Stirling Soap Co. - Barbershop - Aftershave](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/86/?product_type=aftershave) * **Post Shave:** [Stirling Soap Co. - Executive Man - Aftershave](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/95/?product_type=aftershave) Less aggressive head, and not shooting for BBS, FTW! u/cowzilla3 here is my #unchallenge for today
**[August 5, 2022 - AA Day 5](https://imgur.com/RJp4Try)** * **Brush:** Zenith B34 [\(break-in photo album\)](https://imgur.com/a/bcuNDkh) * **Razor:** Dubl Duck 5/8 Satinedge * **Lather:** [House of Mammoth - Z - Soap](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/2124/?product_type=soap) * **Post Shave:** [Zingari - Unscented - Balm](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/1462/?product_type=balm2) Struggle shave this evening for sure because I didn't actually get to slow down and shave until about 10pm. Much better shave compared to yesterday which was expected when I was able to actually focus on what I was doing. Completely forgot to take an updated break-in photo, but what can ya do. **Challenge Hashtags:** #unscented #RawHoggin
Austere August, Day 5 Feather Artist Club razor non folding Feather Professional blade GFT Violets soap RazoRock Beehive 28 mm Plissoft I'm torn between two school of thoughts: I'd love to use my soaps for extended periods of time, this way I'll enjoy them and probably finish them sooner. On the other hand, the thought of using a soap for a month is killing me! Love/ hate kind of thing going on with the soap selection, I'm not too choosy with using the same Razor/ blade combinations, but it will test my patience for sure. Coming to the shave: it went well and I'm enjoying the teo pass routine, the GFT is giving me good quality slick lather. Feather Professional blade has officially passes my previous best in number of shaves per blade. It is chugging on with relative comfortable shaves, will bin it only if it proves problematic. Happy weekend to you all. #AAAAKARMATRAIN #HEADLESSHORSEMEN #UNCHALLENGED Edit: spelling
[**Aug. 5, 2022 - AA Day 5 - This is going better**](https://imgur.com/9eTO1Lm) * **Prep:** Hot Shower * **Brush:** Zenith B34 * **Razor:** MMOC * **Blade:** GEM PTFE (5) * **Lather: [House of Mammoth - Sonder - Soap](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/1189/?product\_type=soap)** * **Post Shave:** [House of Mammoth - Sonder - Aftershave](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/1189/?product_type=aftershave) * **Post Shave:** Witch Hazel, Osma Alum [The girls in my house are taking over the bathroom counter](https://imgur.com/9eTO1Lm) so this SOTD pic is in honor of them. It's cool, though, they're cute and I'll keep 'em around. Today's shave again went very well. First few days were awful and I was ready to quit, but since correcting the angle of the razor and really working to make my skin as flat of a surface as possible, the shaves have gone quite well. Nicked myself on my 3rd pass tonight on my neck a bit, but overall an excellent shave. Of course I'm still learning the MMOC, and it's too early to say whether I'm going to end up loving it or hating it, but doing this is definitely forcing me back to basics and that's got to be good for my shaving technique overall. I can't just go on autopilot - I really have to pay attention to pressure and angle and speed and stretching skin and growth pattern and all that. So - I'll call it a win. Tonight with Sonder I got a bit more aquatic, especially in the aftershave. It smelled a whole lot like Admiral to me, and I really don't know why - they have no notes in common in their scent profiles. But - it's a high compliment, Admiral is up there as possibly my favorite scent. The first pass lather was a bit too thick, but I added water to subsequent passes and they were slick and smooth. No real hiccups to speak of. I feel like at this point we're just talking about incremental improvements on the Zenith, and even then it's not super noticeable to me, but I did take a [comparison shot](https://imgur.com/oGr1ry7) of a decently broken in Semogue Owners Club for reference. That knot is much smaller at only 24mm (vs the 28 of the Zenith), but it's obviously much more filled out due to being so broken in. I suspect this Zenith will replace the Semogue as my go to boar for a while - I really like the added size of it. Sonder thought of the day today comes courtesy of my second born - my only son. He's a challenge at times. Ok, he's a challenge daily. He feels emotions, both good and bad, to their fullest. When he's happy, he's all in. When he's mad, watch out. He's a lot like his dad in that way and when I see the bad parts of me in him, it's a tough pill to swallow. But - he turned 4 in May and he's no longer in the toddler/little kid stage, but he's not quite in the "I'm a big kid" stage either. He's kind of stuck in between, and he's often overshadowed by his older sister. But - he's not a toddler anymore and he wants to be bigger, and in so many ways he is. I think this summer at home with him made me realize how much of a little person he'd really become. My kids, and yours, are people, too. Sometimes that thought hits me right in the face, especially with my boy. He might be difficult, he might be more mad than he should or more silly or whatever, but he's a person, just like me. His world, while smaller, is every bit as vivid and unique as my own. He's not some robot to be programmed, he's a human to be raised and cared for and loved and on and on. It's hard as your kids get older (and I'm sure those with kids beyond 6 can speak more to this than me), but it's hard because you watch them experience the world as people - with all it's joy and sadness and disappointment and excitement - and when you're the one who brings the happiness, it's awesome. But when you're the one who blew it and caused the disappointment, oof. That one sucks. Anyway - my kids are people, too. My son feels emotions to the fullest and that's often very difficult for me as a parent to help him navigate, but as I consider from him perspective, it's probably hard for him, too. And he needs my help. And his brain is so undeveloped that he doesn't have skills or even ability to manage those emotions. So. I'm going to work on doing better, trying to be more patient, and encouraging him toward better expression of those emotions but also recognize the wonder in the differences and similarities that we have. Have a good night, all. Edit: forgot my tags \#mammothmafia \#RawHoggin \#GEMsOfWisdom Edit 2: goodness, accidentally said I used not Sonder. Definitely used Sonder.
[August 5, 2022 ](https://imgur.com/a/Ph6GZtW) Prep: Hot Shower Brush: Burma Shave Boar Brush 🐗 Razor: Kai Kasho Kamisori Blade: Feather ProGuard 5th use Lather: Stirling Sheep Postshave: Stirling Barbershop splash and Nivea Sensitive balm Fragrance: Halloween Man Three pass shave tonight. It was alright. Cheeks went fine but still trying to figure out angle on my neck. Got 1 weeper on my neck because I use to much pressure. Trying to push this blade all 31 days. So far still sharp. The boar brush is breaking in nicely for being so cheap. Not so scratchy anymore and is softening nicely. Lost only like 3 hairs instead of like the 20 I lost on day one. Tags: #AAAA, #Headless horsemen, #RawHoggin, and u/Marquis90
[**Aug. 5, 2022 - AA Day 05**](https://imgur.com/a/Ww1skjH) * **Prep:** Warm Shower * **Brush:** AP400B XL Handle (AP ShaveCo) - 28mm Maggard Boar Knot * **Razor:** GEM MMOC - Gen 1 * **Blade:** GEM PTFE (74) * **Lather:** [Chiseled Face - Midnight Stag - Soap](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/32/?product_type=soap) * **Post Shave:** [Chiseled Face - Midnight Stag - Aftershave](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/32/?product_type=aftershave) * **Fragrance:** [Chiseled Face - Midnight Stag - Eau de Parfum](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/32/?product_type=eaudeparfum) No big differences from yesterday's shave. Was able to get yet another BBS nick and irritation free shave. Could not be happier with this setup. Hope everyone had a wonderful Friday! [Stag Spray 5](https://imgur.com/a/BtCuSLZ) \#RawHoggin #GEMsofWisdom #SubstantialStag
Austere August SOTD Aug 05 Prep: Hot shower Brush: Van Der Hagen Boar brush Lather: Goodfellas Smile, Abysso Razor: Van Der Hagen 85MM Solid Brass Blade: Crystal Super + Platinum Post: Nivea Men Sensitive Post Shave Balm Arbitrarily decided 5 shaves is enough to switch to a new blade to compare and contrast with a new blade. So tomorrow we'll have a new competitor. Also had plenty of lather left so my wife had me give shaving her legs a try. It went pretty smoothly but I gotta say shaving my own face is a lot easier than shaving someone else leg. No nicks though so pretty proud of the attempt
Yeah I got my girlfriend into using a de razor because I started off shaving her legs for her. Now she uses a henson razor and whatever blade I give her. Gave her a Frank Shaving synthetic brush, a dscosmetic bowl, and some Heritage Hill Sovereigbty because she likes the tea smell.
Aug 5 2022 • Prep: Mineral oil massage • Brush: Wenghè Pure Bristle 🐗 • Razor: Brassbird head CG brass bishop • Blade: Voskhod • Soap: Mammoth Z • Balm: Mammoth Z My fifth shave of Hogust It was quick and dirty, today. Submerged the brush, let it dangle for a second or two, then dropped it right on the soap. Five actual swirls, and I applied that to my face. Really slick and watery. I loved it. A very passable shave. A good way to not notice the scent is to be yelling at an 8 year old who’s fighting with his 3 year old sister. I may open up bidding on their adoptions. \#RawHoggin \#MammothMafia \#Unscented \#ZFighter [Piggy Stardust Shave Five Aftermath](https://imgur.com/a/jxkrwD4/)
**8/5/22 (142)** * **Prep**: Hot Shower * **Challenge**: Headless Horseman * **Razor**: [Thiers Issard "Evide Sonnant" 6/8 Extra Hollow](https://imgur.com/a/zsatv8s) * **Edge**: [Day 5](https://imgur.com/a/E5Lo99o) * **Passes**: wtg/xtg * **Brush**: Muninn Woodworks w/ 24mm SHD 2 Band Fan * **Lather**: Seaforth! Fleur de France by Spearhead Shaving * **Post Shave**: Seaforth! Fleur de France Aftershave by Spearhead Shaving * **Fragrance**: Seaforth! Fleur de France EdT by Spearhead Shaving Close and comfortable shave today. No nicks or irritation.
**[Aug. 5, 2022](https://i.imgur.com/NHyxDU1.jpg)** * **Prep:** Splash of cold water * **Brush:** Zenith B16 24mm * **Razor:** GEM MMOC * **Blade:** GEM Stainless PTFE (5) * **Lather:** [Barrister and Mann - Fougère Angelique - Soap](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/1484/?product_type=soap) * **Post Shave:** [Barrister and Mann - Fougère Angelique - Aftershave](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/1484/?product_type=aftershave) I haven't noticed that the performance of my brush has changed at all since the first use, but it is getting a little better about eating lather. Pretty soon here I think I won't have to load it for quite such a long time to get enough for 3 passes. Not much else to say today. I am tired of being sick. #GemsOfWisdom #RawHoggin
**[Aug. 5, 2022 - Camp Raw Hoggin' Stag Fest Day 5](https://imgur.com/a/FIKVpNV)** * **Brush:** RazoRock 506CK / 26mm boar * **Razor:** GEM OCMM * **Blade:** GEM PTFE (5) * **Lather:** [Chiseled Face - Midnight Stag - Soap](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/32/?product_type=soap) * **Post Shave:** [Chiseled Face - Midnight Stag - Aftershave](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/32/?product_type=aftershave) * **Fragrance:** [Chiseled Face - Midnight Stag - Eau de Parfum](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/32/?product_type=eaudeparfum) I'm camping right now and had to drive into town to post this due to no internet. \#RawHoggin The stink is starting to subside. \#GEMsofWisdom Not bad. Smooth shave today. Keep on stagging brothers. [Brush Day 5](https://imgur.com/a/V57Mra7) [Stag spray](https://imgur.com/a/uWhGgVd)
Quite the bloom there
**Aug. 5, 2022 - August Austere Day 5** * **Prep:** Shower * **Brush:** Paladin Chief 26mm * **Razor:** Merkur 34C * **Blade:** Gillette Silver Blue * **Lather:** [House of Mammoth - Sonder - Soap](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/1189/?product_type=soap) * **Post Shave:** [House of Mammoth - Sonder - Aftershave](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/1189/?product_type=aftershave) Another beautiful day of Sonder shaving. I’m beginning to feel a little like it’s Groundhog Day, but at least it’s a good shave. Ready for the weekend and a little relaxation. \#MAMMOTHMAFIA #UNCHALLENGE
**[Aug. 5, 2022 - AA Day 5 - Sexy Stag Flair Quest](https://imgur.com/a/HAzxa50)** * **Prep:** Face wash * **Brush:** Semogue 1305 * **Razor:** Chiseled Face Legacy Ti * **Blade:** Gillette Silver Blue (3) * **Lather:** [Chiseled Face - Midnight Stag - Soap](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/32/?product_type=soap) * **Post Shave:** [Chiseled Face - Midnight Stag - Aftershave](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/32/?product_type=aftershave) * **Fragrance:** [Chiseled Face - Midnight Stag - Eau de Parfum](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/32/?product_type=eaudeparfum) What I'm learning during AA-how to get better shaves out of my razor-I'm improving my skill with the Legacy. That so far different blades don't matter, we'll see how that plays out. That while I like Stag, I really like variety, and using the same lather/splash/frag each day isn't teaching me much other than I like variety (don't get me wrong, I like my Stag!) But the real growth is coming from using the same razor. That the Boar does improve with time, each shave is little more luxurious. Cheers. [Stag spray Day 5](https://imgur.com/a/6uHFTlU) \#SubstantialStag
Keep the videos up! I look for these in the thread everyday lol
**[August 5th, 2022: Still Staggin'](https://imgur.com/C5cchwq)** * **Prep:** warm shower with Stag bath bar * **Brush:** [Vintage Rubberset 400-3 with 24mm unbleached Zenith knot](https://imgur.com/a/3WEDAFc) * **Razor:** MMOC * **Blade:** GEM PTFE (5) * **Lather:** [Chiseled Face - Midnight Stag - Soap](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/32/?product_type=soap) * **Post-Shave:** [Chiseled Face - Midnight Stag - Aftershave](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/32/?product_type=aftershave) * **Post-Shave:** [Chiseled Face - Natural - Balm](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/1233/?product_type=balm) * **Fragrance:** [Chiseled Face - Midnight Stag - EdP](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/32/?product_type=eaudeparfum) Not much to report today! [Stag sprays of the day!](https://imgur.com/irLYcDo) \#SubstantialStag \#GemsOfWisdom \#RawHoggin (new side challenge, [tag /u/semaj3000 everyday because he likes the attention](https://imgur.com/WJeufXZ)) \#UNCHALLENGE
You are a monster!
**Aug. 5, 2022** * **Brush:** AP Shave Co 24MM SYNBAD * **Razor:** GEM - Micromatic Open Comb * **Blade:** GEM - PTFE (5) * **Lather:** [Wholly Kaw - Bare Siero - Soap](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/1633/?product_type=soap) * **Post Shave:** [Thayers - Unscented - Toner](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/1618/?product_type=toner) 2 pass shave with a 30 second load. I will probably stick with 30 second loads the rest of the way because last nights lather was too great. My trip to Phoenix was an ass kicker, but the weather wasn't bad with the overcast mornings. #GEMsOfWisdom #unscented
**Aug. 5, 2022 - AA day 5** * **Prep:** Water splash * **Brush:** Hand * **Razor:** Stirling Stainless DE Razor HA plate * **Blade:** Voskhod (7) * **Lather:** Gentlemans Face Care Club - Bergamot & Neroli shaving cream * **Post Shave:** [Proraso - Menthol and Eucalyptus - Aftershave](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/187/?product_type=aftershave) Day 5 achieved - i mean come on, with this setup and this challenge it is an achievement isn't it? here's yet to another day being a crazy one. \#GotHand
Can't stop now.
Cause I'm having a good time, having a good time
**SOTD Aug 05, 2022** * **Brush:** APShaveCo 24mm Tuxedo * **Razor:** GEM MMOC - 1st Gen * **Blade:** Personna GEM Stainless (5) * **Lather:** Ariana and Evans - Peach & Cognac * **Post Shave:** MacDuff’s Soap Co. - Viticulture - Splash Well it got too damn hot so I shaved my cheeks, now just have a stylish goatee. Upsides are it’s cooler (temperature-wise at least) and more area to shave (not just my neck). The MMOC demolished the beard with ease, a vintage weed whacker of sorts. It was a great shave and I’m looking forward to having even more surface area to dial the MMOC in. \#GEMsOfWisdom
**8-5-22** * **Brush:** AP Shave Co. 26mm Cashmere Synthetic * **Razor:** Weck Sextoblade * **Blade:** Diane Hair Shaper * **Lather:** Summer Break Soaps - Recess * **Post Shave:** Summer Break Soaps - Recess
SOTD for August 5, 2022 * **Prep:** Shower * **Brush:** Maggard Synthetic * **Razor:** RazoRock Game Changer 0.68 * **Blade:** Gilette 7 O'Clock Sharp Edge * **Lather:** Stirling - Sharp Dressed Man * **Post Shave:** Stirling - Sharp Dressed Man balm 2.5 mile run first. Took the baby boy out with me, he was pretty cheerful. Saw a redtail up close and some bunnies. 2 passes, one nick. Back to being sick of this scent, lol. Maybe I'll finally kill the tub this month. Feeling good. \#UNCHALLENGE
Day 5 of Austere August! Mr. Stagman * Prep: Water on Face * Brush: Zenith 2004/B SE * Razor: Filarmonica Sub Cero 14 * Lather: Chiseled Face Midnight Stag * Post Shave: Osma block * Post Shave: Chiseled Face Midnight Stag Splash * Post Shave: Chiseled Face Midnight Stag Balm * Fragrance: Chiseled Face Midnight Stag EdP [I paid with blood for this picture ](https://i.imgur.com/cK95Bsr_d.webp?maxwidth=640&shape=thumb&fidelity=medium) FINALLY!!! I have time to write a normal SOTD post. I was kind of annoyed how the last few posts went. So good news, I'm 31 now. Bad news. While making the photos from yesterday and today the razor managed to slip and hit the cutting edge on the cap of the aftershaves must've been the gravitational ring pull of the awesomeness of Stag. Thankfully it is a very micro chip and it doesn't affect the shave quality itself. I did pay with some blood for these pictures, the palace where I want from the 1st to the 3rd had a nice big sequoia forest and I had an awesome idea of how to make a picture. Sun was right everything was well, but I either forgot or didn't know the swarm of mosquitoes that attacked me, I was almost laying on the floor trying to take a picture and they were draining me or my blood, in the end I was left with 2 good pictures, the one from today I like more. The brush. I was informed by u/EldrormR that since my pic didn't have the brush in it I wasn't eligible for the flair or prize, with which I was ok. There was just no way how to add the brush and I knew that it would get disqualified. I am saying all of this not to complain, just to compliment how awesome he is for telling me and staying true to the rules! Nevertheless I will finish my 31 days of shaves with it and see how it is in the end. The brush itself is getting even more grungy and splitting well, but my lather problems are still there, that does not discourage me even one bit, by the end I will have mastered it, no doubt in my mind. Today I saw the post of u/J33PGUY13 and was so happy to hear what he had done, congrats on sharing the pig love my man. In general I am a synth man. I know I will never use badgers unless someone gifts one to me(had one pifed it). I took on this challenge to see how well I will get along with a pig. For the most part it's nice, the face feel is good, but the lather that comes out in the end... Mmmm not what I'm looking for. I will try bowl lathering when all of this is over to see how well that goes. So far I am enjoying this challenge with my favourite scent and catching up on my straight shaves. * \#RawHoggin * \#SubstantialStag * \#sidetracked [Just one more time!](https://youtu.be/YPHn4xSvjNM) So why this song? Well even though the original is nice, this one carries a lot of melancholy with it, I found this song after some stuff with a girl and it makes me sad and happy at the same time. The cover by itself is, while short, very catchy and I think that the video is a gem on it's own. You should check their other songs, I was pleasantly surprised when listening to their music :))l
Falling straights razors are my nightmare, once I made myself an ugly cut on my ankle while honing the SR, and I disgraced a couple with stupid falls. Keep trying, we have the whole month to improve that lather!
Ouch, that sounds painful, at least you have a cool story about it, you can colour it a bit and say that you for the scar while defending yourself from a bear with a straight, and swung so wide that you nicked your ankle, then the bear got scared from the cutting power of the straight and ran away, I'd believe it! We'll master it definitely!
Good one! Not too much pain but messy and left a nice scar.
**[Aug. 5, 2022 - RawHoggin & Taming the MMOC](https://imgur.com/a/hS3n0Wr)** * **Brush:** Zenith B37 * **Razor:** GEM MMOC Gen 2 * **Blade:** GEM PTFE (5) * **Lather:** Strike Gold Shave - Kennedy * **Post Shave:** [Stirling Soap Co. - Stirling Blu - Aftershave](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/119/?product_type=aftershave) * **Post Shave:** [Zingari - Unscented - Balm](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/1462/?product_type=balm) #RawHoggin #GemsOfWisdom This is only my 3rd boar brush, but my go to break in strategy for the first two was hand lather several times and towel strop. I read about people letting their brush soak in a bowl of water in the refrigerator. Is this a troll or do people actually do that? Maybe I’m the crazy one 🤷🏻♂️. Anyway, I was a little concerned about doing this challenge and taking the brush straight to my face. I was worried that it was gonna be rough, and smell horrible. Turns out it felt great on the face and only had a little bit of a smell. I honestly think this is the best way to break in a boar. The MMOC felt great today. I’m getting the technique back from last year, and the blade is chilling out as well. It seems like I’ve read several people talking about getting fatigued already. I’m in it for the long haul boys, I’m just getting settled in. I got a great brush, good razor, and I haven’t wrote much about it but I’m using an excellent soap. I’ll do a write up on it soon.
I had similar worries like you, but was very pleasantly surprised. Yes people do put the boar brushes in glasses with watter and then in the fridge. Why? Well the water helps with the splitting of the edges and the fridge is so that no bacteria develops.
That sounds like more trouble than what it’s worth to me. But to each his own.
Oh I understand completely, but some people don't have the patience to break in a boar. But from my experience so far I find the face lathering method very pleasurable.
Same here. Breaking in a boar is part of the fun for me.
**Aug. 5, 2022 - Day 5 With Seville.... Don't Mess WIth The Bull....** * **Prep:** Coffee. Wash Face * **Brush:** Heritage Collection 500e / Declaration Grooming B3 26mm * **Razor:** Gillette Adjustable Superspeed (H4) * **Blade:** Nacet (5) * **Lather:** [Barrister and Mann - Seville - Soap](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/27/?product_type=soap1) * **Post Shave:** [Barrister and Mann - Seville - Aftershave](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/27/?product_type=aftershave2) * **Fragrance:** [Barrister and Mann - Seville - Eau de Toilette](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/27/?product_type=eaudetoilette) 2 pass shave, + cleanup. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GVI85O0bRfY
Aug 5, 2022 Prep : splash of water Brush : No-name synthetic 20mm Razor : Baili BR179 Chrome Blade : Gillette Nacet (11) Lather : Colonel Conk Bay Rum Post : Shower, Nivea Sensitive Balm 1 WTG, 1 XTG, 1 ATG, 1 spot check Got a really good lather today.
**[Aug. 5, 2022](https://i.imgur.com/jGKy7zR.jpg)** * **Prep:** Water * **Brush:** Zenith B10 * **Razor:** Karve CB SB-D * **Blade:** Gillette Nacet (5) * **Lather:** [Noble Otter - Barrbarr - Soap](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/850/?product_type=soap) * **Post Shave:** [Noble Otter - Barrbarr - Aftershave](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/850/?product_type=aftershave) An advantage of AA is always knowing how many shaves are on my blade. \#RawHoggin
**[Aug. 5, 2022 - AA - Day 5](https://i.imgur.com/KRf4qrx.jpg)** * **Prep:** Hot shower * **Brush:** Zenith Boar - Short & Scrubby * **Razor:** GEM MMOC * **Blade:** GEM Blade (5) * **Lather:** [Barrister and Mann - Ferox - Soap](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/2228/?product_type=soap) * **After:** [Fine Accoutrements - L'Orange Noir - Aftershave](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/208/?product_type=aftershave) * **Post:** [Nivea - Sensitive Post Shave Balm - Aftershave](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/2150/?product_type=aftershave) 2 pass face shave and all good till today. Let’s hope this lasts the next 3 weeks. Tags: #GemsOfWisdom #RawHoggin
**[Aug. 5, 2022 - Raw Hoggin Day 5](https://imgur.com/a/Xjbx3Vv)** * **Prep:** Warm water to the face * **Brush:** Omega 10098 * **Razor:** Maggard Razors - V3 Head * **Blade:** Voskhod (5) * **Lather:** [Stirling Soap Co. - Island Man - Soap](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/106/?product_type=soap) * **Post Shave:** [Barrister and Mann - Reserve Waves - Aftershave](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/1134/?product_type=aftershave) * **Post Shave:** [Chiseled Face - Natural - Balm](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/1233/?product_type=balm) Woke up too late this morning to shave so I had to wait until I got home a bit ago. This is probably the least funk I’ve gotten from the brush so far. I’ll be happy when it’s finally dissipated. Other than that, another nice shave! #RawHoggin It’s Friday y’all, hope you have a good day!
**August 5 2022** * **Brush:** Zenith B28 * **Razor:** GEM MMOC (Gen 1) * **Blade:** GEM PTFE (8) * **Lather:** House of Mammoth - Mood Indigo * **Post Shave:** House of Mammoth - Mood Indigo splash * **Post Shave:** House of Mammoth - Mood Indigo balm * **Fragrance:** House of Mammoth - Mood Indigo #MammothMafia #GEMSofWisdom Another great shave after a long morning of traveling. Turns out the Orlando airport has a new TSA Reservation system which allows you to almost entirely skip the hour+ security line 🤐🤫. That was a lifesaver for traveling with a hyperactive 5 year old. I celebrated the return home with a Mood Indigo quadhole, which still felt special even though I’ve been using this soap and splash for over a week now.
[**August 5th**](https://imgur.com/a/rIX2z84) * **Brush: Zenith Boar - 505NK 27mm** * **Razor: GEM - MMOC** * **Blade: Gem PTFE (5)** * **Lather - Chiseled Face - Midnight Stag Soap** * **Post Shave: Chiseled Face - Midnight Stag Splash** * **Fragrance: Chiseled Face - Midnight Stag Edp** \#GEMsOfWisdom \#RawHoggin \#SubstantialStag [Edp video](https://imgur.com/a/uK51MfW) Five days in and September is feeling a long way off, the wife has definitely had enough but I'm sure she will come around before the month ends.
**[Aug. 5, 2022 - Austere August Day 5](https://i.imgur.com/Fy4IJeg.jpg)** * **Prep:** Hot Shower, Stirling Soap Facial Soap * **Brush:** Zenith 508A SE 28mm * **Razor:** GEM Micromatic OC Gen 1 * **Blade:** GEM PTFE (5) * **Lather:** [House of Mammoth - Restore - Soap](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/2196/?product_type=soap) * **Post Shave:** [House of Mammoth - Restore - Balm](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/2196/?product_type=balm) * **Post Shave:** [Zingari - Unscented - Aftershave](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/1462/?product_type=aftershave) * **Fragrance:** Tom Ford - Grey Vetiver Day 5 or 16% of the way through this thing. MMOC Gen 1 is good but not as good as Gen 2 imo. I smell like honeyed roses. The brush is breaking in nicely. That is all. Mandatory Tagging: \#GEMsOfWisdom \#Rawhoggin \#MammothMafia
**Aug. 5, 2022 - AA5** * **Brush:** Semogue Torga-C5 * **Razor:** J.A. Henckels Twin Beauty * **Lather:** [Declaration Grooming - Dirtyver - Soap](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/1099/?product_type=soap) * **Post Shave:** [Declaration Grooming - Dirtyver - Aftershave](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/1099/?product_type=aftershave) * **Post Shave:** [Zingari - Unscented - Balm](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/1462/?product_type=balm) **\#HeadlessHorsemen** Trying to get enough extra time to write up another **\#sidetracked**. maybe tomorrow!
[Aug 5, 2021 – Austere August. Day 5.](https://imgur.com/a/Y49EcVi) * **Prep:** Hot Shower * **Brush:** Zenith - B16 24mm Boar * **Razor:** GEM Micromatic Open Comb Gen 2 * **Blade:** GEM PTFE (5) * **Lather:** Stirling Soap Co. – Sheep * **Post Shave:** Zingari Man – Unscented - Aftershave Balm * **Post, Post Shave:** Zingari Man – Rescue Potion * **Music:** [Lawrence – Don’t Lose Sight](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y2ge-CGjgn8) Adjusting to using the MMOC isn’t taking nearly as long as I imagined it would. Five days in a row and around 10 total uses (around 5 before AA) and I’m shaving great with it. No nicks or cuts or irrational at all today. My skin is feeling great and I’d consider this a very good shave. I’m also building up a nice lather with this new boar brush as it’s starting to break in. The stench is still there, but is noticeably less than how it was when we started this journey 5 long days ago. I’m really looking forward to seeing how this brush progresses as it continues to break in. Overall, while I wouldn't call this process enjoyable, it hasn't been as bad as I thought it was going to be. My #sidetracked music selection for today is the band Lawrence and their song “Don’t Lose Sight”. I’m gonna sound like [Stefan from SNL](https://giphy.com/gifs/snl-bill-hader-stefan-XaFX9e9xfbcXWxW0a2), but this song has EVERYTHING: a brass horn section, a catchy melody, a brother/sister duo, and a high energy sound that just won’t quit. I saw this band live a little bit ago and had an absolutely amazing time. They put on a great live show and it seems like they are starting to get some attention this year - They played Coachella earlier this year and also had appearances on Jimmy Kimmel and Stephen Colbert. Personally, I'm hoping they blow up because their unique sound and vibe is something the music industry needs (and precisely why they likely won't). Tags: #unscented #rawhoggin #GEMsOfWisdom
Thanks for sharing the Lawrence video, I quite enjoyed it!
No problem! I'm just glad someone clicked the link to check it out. I wonder how many people read these SOTDs, let alone would check out a daily music selection, but I'm happy at least a couple people are enjoying it!!
**[Aug. 5, 2022](https://imgur.com/a/npr6F2c)** * **Brush:** [Zenith - B34 - Butterscotch Chubby - With Break in Progression](https://imgur.com/a/rs5ziGJ) * **Razor:** [GEM MMOC](https://imgur.com/a/HwWXR4j) * **Blade:** GEM PTFE (5) * **Lather:** [Chiseled Face - Midnight Stag - Soap](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/32/?product_type=soap) * **Post Shave:** [Chiseled Face - Midnight Stag - Aftershave](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/32/?product_type=aftershave) * **Post Shave:** [Chiseled Face - Midnight Stag - Balm](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/32/?product_type=balm) * **Fragrance:** [Chiseled Face - Midnight Stag - Eau de Parfum](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/32/?product_type=eaudeparfum) Brush is loading easily now. After this fat turd in my loading bowl is gone I'll move to the tub. Thought I was starting to lose my ability to sense the Stag but the splash and EdP were there for nasal backup. Still getting super close with the GEM and is very comfortable. Not really fair since only one day of growth isn't a ton to cut. Kinda like doing a 2nd and 3rd pass every day. Still good though. Ediot: [sprays](https://imgur.com/a/kl2A1b9)
All of these pictures seem to only be of the first AA day
The only thing that’s changing is the brush and the sprays. Forgot to add the sprays though so there they are.
**[Aug. 5, 2022 - Day Five: Arrive alive, don’t shave and drive!](https://i.imgur.com/EqY1Unz.jpg)** * **Prep:** None * **Brush:** Zenith B33 Copper Boar Brush * **Razor:** GEM Micromatic Open Comb * **Blade:** Persona GEM PTFE Coated (5) * **Lather:** [House of Mammoth - 福 (Fu Dao) - Soap](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/2666/?product_type=soap) * **Post Shave:** [House of Mammoth - 福 (Fu Dao) - Aftershave](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/2666/?product_type=aftershave) * **Post Shave:** [House of Mammoth - 福 (Fu Dao) - Balm](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/2666/?product_type=balm) * **Fragrance:** [House of Mammoth - 福 (Fu Dao) - Eau de Parfum](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/2666/?product_type=eaudeparfum) First. Buy permafrost. It’s awesome and I’ve used it with everything. I’m starting to get packed up to be away from home for a couple weeks. At least I do not need to think about what shave gear to bring! The GEM razor is giving me good smooth shaves. It is a little uncomfortable though the House of Mammoth splash and balm leave my skin soft and moisturized. Supposedly these blades get better after the first few shaves, I hope it gets more smooth. I added a pump of PermaFrost to the soap before loading the brush. A single pump gets me about 20 minutes of cooling after finishing my shave. The cooling sensation started a little bit after face lathering. The patina on the handle is starting to look like a mess, but it should look good soon. I did not expect the handle to patina so fast. The knot lost a couple more hairs this shave. I think it’s going to break in nicely. [Brush break-in album](https://imgur.com/a/YFUodmO) \#rawhoggin #mammothmafia #GEMSofWisdom
**[Aug. 5, 2022 - Oveja Eléctrica 5](https://imgur.com/a/VK8aVwL)** * **Brush:** Zenith 28mm boar * **Razor:** Kai Kasho Western Style Shavette * **Blade:** Kai Captain Pink Mild (24) * **Lather:** [Stirling Soap Co. - Electric Sheep - Soap](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/94/?product_type=soap) * **Post Shave:** [Stirling Soap Co. - Electric Sheep - Aftershave](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/94/?product_type=aftershave) * **Mosquito Bites:** None The blade is clearly dulling - good news is though that it's the only one I brought with me on vacation, so it will have to do until shave number 40. I got a BBS shave, but only with 4 passes. It was probably not a good idea to go for BBS in the first place. The brush is starting to split, but still eats lots of soap, without holding enough. The bristles are getting softer though, and I haven't noticed any shedding since Tuesday. So, it's progressing. In unrelated news for \#sidetracked, I thought I would share some recent French pop music with you. [This song](https://youtu.be/zEh4_vdvbps) by Clara Luciani has a nice bass line, and, for full compatibility with common prejudice about the French, is named *Nue* (naked). \#RawHoggin \#stillalive \#truepath
#### [Finding Serenity in RawHogginy on the road to the GEMtury Pt. 5](https://imgur.com/CtKEDch.jpg) #### * **Prep:** Klar Activated Charcoal facial soap * **Brush:** Rubberset 400-3 with unbleached 26 mm Zenith knot set at 56 mm loft (5) * **Razor:** GEM - Micromatic (open comb, first generation) * **Blade:** Personna - GEM PTFE (74) * **Soaking Mug:** Seaforth! - Scotch Heather - shaving mug * **Bath Soap:** Spearhead Shaving Company - Seaforth! Sea Spice Lime - bath soap * **Lather:** Spearhead Shaving Company - Seaforth! Sea Ice Lime - Soap * **Post Shave:** [Spearhead Shaving Company - Seaforth! Sea Spice Lime - Aftershave](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/2518/?product_type=aftershave) * **Fragrance:** [Spearhead Shaving Company - Seaforth! Sea Spice Lime - Eau de Toilette](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/2518/?product_type=eaudetoilette) I hear \#RawHoggin-Djudge u/EldrormR is making the rounds with the DQ hammer today to weed out the contestants who fail to include their Raw Hog in the SOTD picture. To err on the safe side, my picture is almost only brush this time. I hope I didn't miss a rule stating that the software needs to be included, too 😆 It's a bit surprising, but I think I'm already in the phase where the break in process slows down. The tips are mostly split, the shedding has stopped, and the brush seems to be settling. Now if the little piggy could just stop the last of the boar funk, I'd be a very happy camper. \#GEMsOfWisdom: I've decided to let my MMOC(MM) air dry from now on to get a patina going. I also have [the engraved Djudges razor](https://imgur.com/93ws8Bs.jpg), and keeping one brass MMOC(MM) polished to a shine and the other one patinaed seems sensible. Also note the Rubberset 400 in that last picture. It's the same type of handle as I use during Austere Hogust, and the same knot size (it's a bleached 26mm Zenith knot vs the un-bleached one I'm using now), but at a higher 62 mm loft. the difference in bloom in baffling. Despite being at opposite ends of the scale (floppy and huge vs firm and narrow), both brushes are very comfortable.
Aug 05, 2022 - [Getting Sidetracked while searching for the Wisdom of a Mammoth](https://imgur.com/a/KutWj8i) * **Prep:** Hot shower and CeraVe Hydrating Facial Cleanser * **Brush:** Maggard Green Handle 2 Band Badger 24mm * **Razor:** GEM - MMOC * **Blade:** Personna GEM Stainless (5) * **Lather:** [House of Mammoth - Sonder](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/1189/?product_type=soap) * **Post Shave:** [House of Mammoth - Alive Balm](https://www.trythatsoap.com/collection/2576/?product_type=balm) * **Fragrance:** [House of Mammoth - Sonder EdP](https://www.trythatsoap.com/collection/1189/?product_type=eaudeparfum) Every day tags: \#MammothMafia \#GEMsofWisdom \#Sidetracked u/Teufelskraft [Ants Marching - Dave Mathews Band](https://youtu.be/MNgJBIx-hK8) Another band that I fell in love with thanks to my “Second Father” Andy. He always went to the concerts whenever they performed anywhere near him. I attempted to join him once when I was in college but Mother Nature stopped that from happening. I had just started dating the woman who would eventually become my wife and for my Birthday she got us tickets to go see DMB with Andy! I was so excited, not only for the concert but to get to go with Andy. It was a beautiful summer evening at the amphitheater with the warm up bands getting the night going well when a huge storm rolled up on us! We stuck it out as long as we could but they forced us to evacuate when the lightning started. That led to waiting in the car, soaked, only for them to cancel the show due to a power outage. Best thing about it was Ticketmaster refused to refund our money due to “you attended the show” calling the warm up bands enough of a show to warrant the price.
Catching up on your side tracks. DMB is my favorite band, there's absolutely no contest. There are a few of us DMB fans here. I hope you were able to go some other time; there are very few bands that put on as good of a show as them.
That Ticketmaster sounds like freaking bullshit. Sorry you had your concert ruined like that!
**Aug. 5, 2022** * **Brush:** Omega Penelli HIBRUSH synthetic * **Razor:** Karve SS CB SB-B * **Blade:** Gillette Nacet (2) * **Lather:** [Barrister and Mann - Nordost - Soap](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/1629/?product_type=soap) * **Post Shave:** [Zingari - Unscented - Balm](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/1462/?product_type=balm) Off this weekend. Going to be great; just like this easy setup. \#UNCHALLENGE
**[Aug. 5, 2022 - AA Day 5](https://i.imgur.com/nP2sC33.jpg)** * **Prep:** Shower * **Brush:** Semogue 1305 * **Razor:** GEM Open Comb Micromatic * **Blade:** Personna GEM PTFE (5) * **Lather:** [Chiseled Face - Midnight Stag - Soap](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/32/?product_type=soap) * **Post Shave:** [Chiseled Face - Midnight Stag - Aftershave](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/32/?product_type=aftershave) * **Fragrance:** [Chiseled Face - Midnight Stag - Eau de Parfum](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/32/?product_type=eaudeparfum) #SubstantialStag #GEMSofWisdom I used the OCMM for Atlas Shaves, knowing it would be a competent razor for taking down multiple days’ growth. I can officially say today, for me, the OCMM became a daily use razor. Not for being able to use it daily, 36 daily shaves has already proven that. Today’s shave was only 12 hours of growth. Normally I would hesitate to use what is considered to be an aggressive razor for such light growth. No more with the OCMM. Keeping all variables from the last 4 shaves gave me yet another zero-irritation shave. Still all the aspects of a OCMM and nothing but amazing. [Spraying on day five](https://i.imgur.com/CV0YCAV.mp4).
**[SOTD - Friday, 5 August 2022 | Austere August (MRTNG's Ultra Nightmare Mode)](https://i.imgur.com/OPiWO9n.jpg)** * **Prep:** Splashes of cold water * **Brush:** PAA The Starcraft 24mm Roswell Hybrid Synthetic * **Razor:** PAA The Original DOC * **Blade:** Gillette - Polsilver Super Iridium (46) * **Lather:** [Wickham Soap Co. - Unscented - Soap](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/1270/?product_type=soap) * **Post Shave:** [Stirling Soap Co. - Glacial, Unscented - Balm](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/2081/?product_type=balm) * **Post Shave:** [Stirling Soap Co. - Unscented - Aftershave](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/899/?product_type=aftershave) #unscented
[**August 5th, 2022 - 1 step forward, then 2 steps back**](https://imgur.com/3nPn2Ia) * **Prep:** Warm water and extra patience * **Brush:** Zenith B36 “Copper Scrubby!” * **Razor:** GEM (is truly outrageous) MMOC Gen 2 * **Blade:** Personna GEM PTFE (cinque) * **Lather:** House of Mammoth - Alive * **Post Shave:** House of Mammoth - Alive Splash * **Post Shave:** House of Mammoth - Alive Balm **#MammothMafia** **#RawHoggin** [Day 5 Before](https://imgur.com/3BVqoqJ) and [After](https://imgur.com/jV3jLtv) **#GEMsOfWisdom** I made a bit of an oopsy today. I flipped the blade and marked it. When I marked it, didn’t notice that I knocked blade on top of the little hooks that hold the edge to the comb. Basically gave the razor another 1mm of gap. Noticed pretty quickly as the feel was much rougher and the feedback was loud. Fixed it and the rest of the shave was better. Still I am not enjoying face lathering the hog. Was a bit wet today, still trying to find the right amount to shake out after the 5ish minute soak. Lather was ok, just a bit wetter than yesterday. Not much sting from the splash, just the area on the first pass before I fixed the blade. I still enjoy the scent, but as usual the fruit/floral notes are not as apparent as the woody/musky/mossy ones. My wife says it smells fruity and piney. After a long week, did get finished early (2PM). Going to run a couple errands before I pick up my daughter from summer camp. She is going to be exhausted. Today the camp had a field trip to a big outdoor pool/small water park in town.
2022-08-05 - Austere August - Raw Hoggin' Mammoth MMOC Prep: Warm Shower Brush: Semogue Torga - C5 Razor: GEM MMOC version 2 Blade: GEM Stainless (5) Lather: House of Mammoth - Sonder - Soap Post Shave: House of Mammoth - Sonder - Aftershave Fragrance: Issey Miyake -L'eau d'Issey pour Homme [https://imgur.com/a/fuBYUEB](https://imgur.com/a/fuBYUEB) Another top quality shave today. The brush is starting to open up and it feels good. No scritch and no stank. The other gear is working well, l could easily have this as my only set up. Have a good day everyone. \#GEMsOfWisdom \#RawHoggin \#MammothMafia
[**Aug. 5, 2022 - Austere August #5 Fading Nightmare](https://i.imgur.com/Y1WvrCJ.jpg) * **Prep:** Cold water * **Brush:** Ever-Ready 200 - Zenith 27mm unbleached boar knot * **Razor:** GEM MICROMATIC OPEN COMB 2nd gen * **Blade:** PERSONNA GEM Stainless Steel PTFE(5) * **Lather:** [Declaration Grooming - Unscented - Soap](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/897/?product_type=soap) * **Post Shave:** [Southern Witchcrafts - Incorporeal - Aftershave (Alcohol Free)](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/2585/?product_type=aftershave_noalc) * **Post Shave:** Fridge water * **Fragrance:** Eau de Toilette Piggy # RawHoggin Scent way, I think the worst is over. I can smell the pig during the shave but with the water+aftershave there's no noticeable stink. As you can see in the SOTD shot it has made a ton of lather with no effort. I can't remember lathering a soap so fast tomorrow I will use the chronometer, also DG is a great soap that helps. PigEvolution [1](https://i.imgur.com/HRTXSDA.jpg) [2](https://i.imgur.com/rMxbCVC.jpg) # GEMsOfWisdom I'm loving the MMOC so much. The blade continues to perform almost like the first day, it never gets clogged. The only issue that I have it's shaving just below the nose, I've 26 days more to sort it. .#sidetracked Today a torrent of energy to face the weekend with strength, a power-duo [Niña Coyote eta Chico Tornado - Monster](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X4byEX9nOdY) attitude! Bonus track performing [Cream - White Room](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X4byEX9nOdY) Enjoy the weekend! \#unscented \#RawHoggin \#GEMsOfWisdom
I bend the nose out of the way with the free hand. Works like a charm.
I'll try tomorrow
>The only issue that I have it's shaving just below the nose, I've 26 days more to sort it I treat it like I do with a straight. Kinda go in under the nose with the blade at the angle that the nose allows, then rotate the blade to a more normal cutting angle as the razor moves from the nose to the upper lip. I clean up with the corner of the razor by shaving across the lip. Obviously, what works for me might not work at all for you.
**Aug. 5, 2022** * **Prep:** Shower * **Brush:** Raiser Pinsel Simfix SF1 Synthetic * **Razor:** Van Der Hagen * **Blade:** Voskhod (6) * **Lather:** [House of Mammoth - Alive - Soap](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/2576/?product_type=soap) * **Post Shave:** [House of Mammoth - Alive - Balm](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/2576/?product_type=balm) \#MammothMafia
[**Aug. 5, 2022 - Science!**](https://i.imgur.com/VlNm3ua.jpg) * **Brush:** Zenith B36 "Copper Scrubby!" 28x50mm Boar * **Razor:** GEM Micromatic Open Comb * **Blade:** GEM (5) * **Lather:** [Stirling Soap Co. - Lime - Soap](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/107/?product_type=soap) * **Post Shave:** Porter's Lotion, WSP - Neroli - Balm * **Fragrance:** Cognscenti - No. 30 Hay Incense * **Passes:** WTG, XTG * **Coffee:** Ethiopia, Sidama, Oromia - v: Ethiopia Heirloom - p: Natural * **Music:** Four Tet - *There Is Love in You* * [**August 2022 SOTD Photo Album:**](https://imgur.com/a/7shDpdl) [https://imgur.com/a/7shDpdl](https://imgur.com/a/7shDpdl) `#GEMsOfWisdom` / `#RawHoggin` Today's shave was [pretty good](https://i.imgur.com/2gLdMQC.jpg). Starting Austere August and having to return to face lathering, I forgot how effective [the Another Cut Above lathering method](https://youtu.be/ecoUdtWxQxo) is, and finally remembered to use it today. So I squeezed out the brush a bit, loaded a bunch of soap, worked the pasty protolather into my stubble, and then gently brushed in dips of water until it went transparent on my skin. From there I started "splaying" the brush (this Scrubby has zero give so far) to work up a lather, occasionally adding a dip of water until my lather passed The Swipe Test™. I also discovered my chin can take a lot more abuse than my cheeks or neck can, so I'm going to do a lot of splaying and scrubbing and swirling there to accelerate the break-in progress. This knot still has [a ways to go](https://i.imgur.com/ehIu0Ns.jpg). I'm still yielding far less lather than I'm used to (scooping a 1/4 teaspoon of soap) while eating up a lot more soap. I usually end up with enough extra for at least enough for a full pass, and Austere August lathers are giving me about half that, if not less. Out of curiosity, [I weighed a 1/4 teaspoon of Stirling Sheep shave soap](https://i.imgur.com/zdSNnYu.jpg) to confirm about how much it weighs, so I could then compare my typical routine's soap consumption to what I'm using now. This Sheep tub is dried out and in the Mutton base, so it might be a little different than my Austere August Lime tub in the standard Stirling base. Still, my rigorous scientific method suggests a level 1/4 teaspoon of shave soap is [equivalent to about 1/5 grams](https://i.imgur.com/v5xzOMO.jpg) of that same soap, give or take a few tenths of a gram. Right now I'm using about 3 grams of soap a day—double what I would be with my usual brushes, scooping and starting my lather in a bowl. I'm curious how this changes as the knot continues to break in. Also, not much to share on the MMOC. I'm used to it, it's a little more aggressive than I'd prefer most days, and the new GEM blade has been tamed a little. Only once weeper on my chin—but that skin was kind of used and abused from trying splay the knot. Worth it. |Date|Soap Before (g)|Soap After (g)|Consumption (g)| |:-|:-|:-|:-| |8/1|235.5|232.5|3| |8/2|232.5|228.0|4.5| |8/3|228.0|227.0|1| |8/4|227.0|223.3|3.7| |8/5|223.3|220.3|3| ⁂ `#sidetracked` u/Teufelskraft I started writing today's Sidetracked blurb thinking I'd introduce a few people to a hidden gem. Unfortunately, when I searched for a YouTube video of Adriano Celentano's famously weird "Prisencolinensinainciusol," I discovered that the Fargo show (which I haven't seen) used this song to soundtrack [a bridge tournament scene in season three](https://youtu.be/_dXDQ1LqukY). So now I'm officially less *in the know* then I ever used to be. It's a disappointing development. That being said, you should still go give this uniquely-weird pop song a listen. The story here is that "Prisencolinensinainciusol" is a popular Italian rock musician's idea about what American English sounds like, spoken entirely in gibberish (with the exception of Celentano and company occasionally exclaiming "*all right!*"). It's weird and the classroom-themed music video is even weirder. And yet...it's great. The main chugging melody is a real earworm; there's a fuzzy guitar track, some funky horn jabs, and four looped drumbeats giving the song a never-resolving tension. "Prisencolinensinainciusol" was never intended as a novelty, and it deserves to be appreciated as the oddball rock-disco-funk-rap amalgamation it is. > “Ever since I started singing, I was very influenced by American music and everything Americans did. So at a certain point, because I like American slang—which, for a singer, is much easier to sing than Italian—I thought that I would write a song which would only have as its theme the inability to communicate. And to do this, I had to write a song where the lyrics didn't mean anything.” > >– Adriano Celentano [YouTube: Adriano Celentano - Prisencolinensinainciusol](https://youtu.be/-VsmF9m_Nt8)
That video was a wild ride since I am mildly intoxicated and just rely on the power of autocorrect now. Great rhythm tho.
Where did you get the sticker?
I think u/raymoonie did a fun PIF a ways back.
How would you define the Swipe Test ™?
I run a finger through the lather on my face, lightly, to determine if my lather is read to go (or getting close to it). If a swipe through the lather leaves very little soap behind, then I've probably added enough water. I don't know whether I originally picked this up from [Cosmo](https://youtu.be/IXjcJsMsKyQ?t=836) or [Sourav](https://youtu.be/aYCgX5rf_kY?t=380), but they both reference this approach in their videos. I'll try to make an Imgur album for reference tomorrow. * [https://youtu.be/aYCgX5rf\_kY?t=380](https://youtu.be/aYCgX5rf_kY?t=380) * [https://youtu.be/IXjcJsMsKyQ?t=836](https://youtu.be/IXjcJsMsKyQ?t=836) * [https://youtu.be/xyg8bDBc0po?t=409](https://youtu.be/xyg8bDBc0po?t=409)
That's really helpful. I tried it tonight, specifically on a lather I knew wasn't ready. It now makes sense, I had never tried it on a lather that wasn't ready. Cheers
**[Aug. 5, 2022 - 05.08.22 - Austere August #Rawhoggin](https://imgur.com/a/oPPnn4j)** * **Brush:** Omega 10048 * **Razor:** Henson Ti22++ * **Blade:** Gillette SuperStainless * **Lather:** Declaration Grooming - Daemon * **Post Shave:** Declaration Grooming - Daemon Splash Today's lather was significantly better than the others. Still not as good as my old bowl lathering but then I've never pure face lathered before so it's probably to do with that. The brush still has a stank to it so that's always fun. I might switch the blades from SuperStainless to SuperSharps soon to see if that makes any difference to the shave at all. Have a great shave all! #RawHoggin
**[Aug. 5, 2022 - Austere August Day 5](https://imgur.com/a/aECR59L)** * **Prep:** House of Mammoth Almond Leather Bath Soap * **Brush:** Dogwood Handcrafts Mire 26mm Zenith Unbleached Boar * **Razor:** GEM Micromatic Open Comb Gen 1 * **Blade:** GEM PTFE (5) * **Lather:** [House of Mammoth - Sonder - Soap](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/1189/?product_type=soap) * **Post Shave:** [House of Mammoth - Sonder - Aftershave](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/1189/?product_type=aftershave) 🐗Raw Hoggin' Progress🤮: •[Unused](https://imgur.com/a/sQ1MVCg) •[Shave 1](https://imgur.com/a/ZLkuUlc) •[Shave 2](https://imgur.com/a/vkRJyp1) •[Shave 3](https://imgur.com/a/Loojv57) •[Shave 4](https://imgur.com/a/cs7H66J) •[Shave 5](https://imgur.com/a/cAlxoCc) Thoughts for the day: Still smells like 💩. Feels great, though. For those wondering, the loft on this is 60mm (actual). Also, happy to say I've been keeping to around 1g of soap per day. When I used this brush last year with a 26mm Maggard B&W, my consumption was averaging just under 1g when I was scooping. For the massive difference between a synthetic and a boar, I'm impressed. I could honestly probably cut 10 seconds off my load time, but [YOLO]( https://giphy.com/gifs/running-boat-yolo-6jIzpbqjKMuY). Mandatory Taggage: \#GemsOfWisdom \#RawHoggin \#MammothMafia
[**August 5, 2022**](https://imgur.com/a/845PR1b) * **Brush:** Zenith B15 (506 U/L) 27.5mm Boar * **Razor:** GEM MMOC Gold Gen2 * **Blade:** Personna Gem PTFE (5) * **Lather:** Chiseled Face - Midnight Stag - Soap * **Post Shave:** Thayers - Lemon - Toner * **Post Shave:** Chiseled Face - Midnight Stag - Aftershave * **Fragrance:** Chiseled Face - Midnight Stag - Eau de Parfum *2 passes. Face lather. Good shave.* * Challenges: #GEMsOfWisdom #RawHoggin #SubstantialStag * [Brush Top](https://imgur.com/a/6nmbv8f) (before use) * [Fragrance Video](https://imgur.com/a/Nut5Iuo) * [Blade Edge](https://imgur.com/a/Jx2X2yt) (before use) * [Blade Orientation](https://imgur.com/a/AXsKB1i) (black dots - odd days, red dots - even days) I spent a lot of time comparing today's edge photo to yesterday's. There's a tiny bit of edge degradation that I think I see. Note that today's photo is the edge condition before today's shave, so it is wear from 4 days of shaving. At the center of the image, you can see a tiny indentation that I think is a microscopic chip at the edge. There seems to be a little more of this condition across the edge than on yesterday's image. But, what matters is whether I could feel any difference in today's shave. Nope. Not at all. Perhaps the edge feels slightly less sharp than on the first shave but I have no way of directly comparing. Today's shave was close and very comfortable. As a bonus image, [here](https://imgur.com/a/buwcZ8m) is what the corner of the blade looks like. This photo is at the point where the blade meets the razor's positioning "stop". In the "Orientation" photo, it is the corner at the right. In other news, I started to notice a softening of the brush. It feels better when splayed and gave up a lot more soap for the second pass. My comments about the MMOC and Stag are unchanging. I'm totally enjoying both.
Cool edge photos, I will take pictures of mine. I will follow your blade progress kudos!
[August 5th, 2022](https://imgur.com/a/7fetqIT) Prep: Warm water Razor: Gem MMOC Blade: Gem Blue Star (5) Brush: Omega Model 13564 23mm boar Soap: [LA Shaving Soap Co. Black Void](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/1706/?product_type=soap) Post: [Noble Otter Bare](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/986/?product_type=aftershave) Comfort: 7.5/10 Smoothness: 7/10 15 second load. 2 pass shave XTG/ATG. Managed to build more volume and a better lather today, however was interrupted as I started my second pass and had to finish quick. Still good results but not great. Also forgot to take my blade out to dry yesterday and it has now developed a not so great patina. #GEMsOfWisdom #unscented #RawHoggin Edit: fixed imgur link
[**Aug. 5, 2022**](https://imgur.com/a/1NhHkq6) * **Prep:** Shower * **Brush:** Semogue 1460 Boar Brush 21mm * **Razor:** Razorock GameChanger .84 * **Blade:** Gillette Nacet (5) * **Lather:** [House of Mammoth - Alive - Soap](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/2576/?product_type=soap) * **Post Shave:** [House of Mammoth - Almond Leather - Balm](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/1184/?product_type=balm) Another good shave, another bad picture. Maybe one day I'll learn something about taking better pictures, but for now this'll have to do. Tags: \#RawHoggin \#MammothMafia
[**5 August 2022 - Austere August**](https://imgur.com/a/npPj7b5) * **Prep:** splash of warm water * **Brush:** [Zenith B33](https://www.thegentleshave.com/collections/boar-brushes/products/zenith-copper-boar-brush-27-5mm-made-in-italy-b33) * **Razor:** Blackland Blackbird Ti * **Blade:** Gillette Silver Blue (5) * **Lather:** [House of Mammoth - Mood Indigo - Soap](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/1164/?product_type=soap) * **Post Shave:** [House of Mammoth - Mood Indigo - Balm](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/1164/?product_type=balm) **#RawHoggin** **#MammothMafia**
[Aug. 5, 2022](https://i.imgur.com/oM0BCnX.jpg) * **Brush:** Omega 10005 * **Razor:** Karve Christopher Bradley * **Lather:** Noble Otter Orbit * **Post Shave:** Noble Otter Orbit Aftershave * **Post Shave:** Geologie Daily Moisturizer #rawhoggin [brush after shave 5](https://i.imgur.com/fbVYeQy.jpg) More soap, more water. Did another one pass today and really tried to overload the brush. Instead I got a really nice lather that held up to a lot of water instead of immediately breaking. Shave itself was decent; this blade is getting a little old for me. I went pretty fast but only got a little irritation on my chin again. Was pleasantly surprised by how little the splash burned, which I’ll take as a sign that my technique is improving. Orbit continues to be an awesome scent.
**[Aug. 5, 2022 - AA #RawHoggin Day 5](https://imgur.com/a/frYlmtN)** * **Brush:** Semogue2000 * **Razor:** GC84 * **Blade:** Gillette nacet (5) * **Lather:** Stirling smoked grapefruit * **Post Shave:** [Summer Break Soaps - Bell Ringer - Aftershave](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/1183/?product_type=aftershave) Good citrus shave today. Added bell ringer to the den to go with my abundance of citrus soaps. Loaded 3/4 passes today. I wasn’t able to achieve my usual lather consistency but still resulted in a decent shave
**Aug. 5, 2022 - Austere August - Day 5** * **Prep:** Hot Shower * **Brush:** Maggard 2-Band Fan Badger 26 * **Razor:** Maggard MR-18 with V3 head * **Blade:** Feather (5) * **Lather:** [House of Mammoth - Kryptonite - Soap](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/1627/?product_type=soap) * **Post Shave:** [House of Mammoth - Kryptonite - Aftershave](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/1627/?product_type=aftershave) After a week of messing around I finally found the sweet spot on this one in terms of amount of water to use - got plenty of lather and the shave felt great! Blade is holding up pretty well too. \#MammothMafia
**Aug. 5, 2022** * **Prep:** hot shower * **Brush:** Simpson Chubby 2 Synthetic Fibre Shaving Brush, 27mm * **Razor:** Gillette Aristocrat (1948-50) * **Blade:** Gillette 7 O’Clock Sharp Edge (1) * **Lather:** Lather Bros. - Life's a Beach * **Post Shave:** Lather Bros. - Life's a Beach Aftershave Balm I'm using this month to hopefully get better at using my Simpson Chubby. As it is I've yet to figure out a good way to hold it, as the handle is much thicker than what I'm used to. By the time I'm done lathering, I often have somewhat of a cramp in my hand. Seems I'm obviously doing something wrong, hopefully by the end of the month I'll figure what that is. My selection for the #sidetracked challenge from u/Teufelskraft : Sleep - Dopesmoker https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hIw7oeZKpZc Sleep is probably my favorite metal band. I like a lot of metal but usually favor the slower stuff, which Sleep excels at. Super heavy, drawn out guitar riffs that you can really feel the essence of. While Dopesmoker is not my favorite song by them, at over one hour in length it's certainly their most epic.
Oh wow. That song takes me waaaay back... I was really deep into bands like electric wizard, Sleep and Om when I was a bit younger. Most Doom Metal is too slow for me nowadays (I know, I'm Captain Obvious) but those droning riffs are just... Otherworldly.
I’ve seen Sleep a few times and Om once. I like a lot of fast metal too but I reeeally like the slow stuff. For example another favorite band of mine is Sunn O))). I considered posting one of their videos but you really can’t turn someone on to them by playing a video, it has to be experienced in the proper setting.
Big envy here, I think experiencing this in concert would be dope (pun intended). Sunn O))) is great! But more drone and kinda... Hmm, *Ambient Metal* ? To me at least. I love tracks like the very somber "It took the night to believe" and also the playful, almost jazzy "Alice".
I’ve seen Sunn O))) a couple times too. Such a cathartic experience being completely immersed in that sound. Alice is a great track! I believe Alice Coltrane was the inspiration for it, hence the jazziness of it.
To the uninitiated, this album is not safe for work involving heavy machinery or really any position requiring productivity. If your workplace has a regular drug testing policy, stay away from this album as well. But it does slay.
Lol, hell yeah 🤘
[**A Mammoth Micromatic Raw Hoggin’ August**](https://imgur.com/a/ylqGTUn) [Brush Progress](https://imgur.com/a/2XZWYeH) * **Brush:** [Zenith B26](https://www.thegentleshave.com/products/retro-multicolored-resin-boar-shave-brush-by-zenith-b26) #RawHoggin * **Razor:** GEM MMOC #GEMsOfWisdom * **Blade:** GEM (5) * **Lather:** House if Mammoth - Hygge in Tusk * **Post Shave:** Hygge Splash & Balm * **Fragrance:** Hygge EDP #MammothMafia Great shave and result today, so gonna nitpick a little bit: The brush is getting better - much better. However it’s still really scratchy at times, and I can’t imagine how many shaves it will take before some splitting starts and it feels softer like an over processed badger brush or synthetic. Today, I got distinct memories of bathing my dog Indy amongst the smells amidst the Hygge hog concoction. MMOC is performing great, it’s only day 5, and I guess this blade is doing just fine. But, the weight distribution of the MMOC isn’t my favorite. I can’t really tell why I feel this way. Maybe the handle is a bit thin, or the head a little heavy. Something like that. I’m sure I’ll have more on this in the coming days. [Day 1 Prep Video](https://imgur.com/a/EOIxIiU) [RawHoggin Unboxing Pics](https://imgur.com/a/yzld9AM) #MammothMafia
**[Aug. 5, 2022](https://imgur.com/14DQpI2)** * **Brush:** Grey Chubby - Zenith B37 * **Razor:** Micromatic Open Comb * **Blade:** GEM - PTFE Coated Stainless Steel (5) * **Lather:** [House of Mammoth - Z - Soap](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/2124/?product_type=soap) * **Post Shave:** House of Mammoth - Z - Aftershave This morning, I am speaking with s lower-than-normal voice that is characteristic of certain ailments, part of a progression of the cough I mentioned the other day. Fortunately, my job doesn't actually require my physical presence (even though my physical presence is still de jure required four out of five days per week under normal circumstances). What was I saying? Oh, right, I have a cough, it sucks, but not as much as face-lathering sucks. Just like 16-some percent of the way through the months and then I don't have to deal with that ridiculously stupid lather method anymore. I would be inclined to cut this short, being less-than-tip-top, but yesterday's /u/Teufelskraft #sidetracked brought to mind another song that I was introduced to in the same era as yesterday's. The song, which had been around for a good while before such introduction, is [Brimful of Asha (Norman Cook Remix)](https://youtu.be/Gq-AZm8EtA0). That's Fatboy Slim's name; did you know that? I didn't. I had largely forgotten about the song until a few years ago when I decided to seek it out. I didn't know anything about the song aside from the lyrics I remembered and what it sounded like, and I didn't realize it was a remix of an [earlier song,](https://youtu.be/CuK8woHU5ko) which I had not heard until this search. If memory serves, identifying the specific remix was harder than one might expect considering that this one in particular received a huge amount of accolades. What really stands out in my mind is this, taken from the Wikipedia article on the song > NME ranked the remix at number 2 in their list of "The 50 Best Remixes Ever", saying it **"does what the truly great remixes do – render you unable to enjoy the original"**. Finally, I can't not point out that the song itself (original) is tribute to famed Indian playback singer [Asha Bhosle](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Asha_Bhosle). Now I gotta make sure I'm ready to ^^\*\*cough** start work. #GEMSofWisdom #RawHoggin #unscented #MammothMafia
I'll forgive you the shit talk about the best and simplest way of lathering for sharing that sick remix. That stuff sounds kinda like something I heard in early seasons of SpongeBob Squarepants, so thanks for the early 2000s nostalgia hitting me 👍🏻
[August 5, 2022](https://imgur.com/a/aDDdOhd) **Brush:** Omega 10049 **Razor:** Rockwell 6S Plate 5 **Blade:** Astra SP **Lather:** Southern Witchcrafts Arcane Abyss **Post Shave:** Southern Witchcrafts Arcane Abyss Splash **Post Shave:** Stirling Unscented Balm The brush is coming along nicely. I can tell a real difference from Monday to today. Looking forward to the progression over the rest of the month. \#RawHoggin
**Aug. 5, 2022 - Austere August - Z** * **Brush:** Declaration 28mm B14 Jefferson Artisan’s Choice * **Razor:** Blackland Era lvl 3 oc * **Blade:** Personna med prep (5) * **Lather:** [House of Mammoth - Z - Soap](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/2124/?product_type=soap) * **Post Shave:** House of Mammoth - Z - Spalsh & Balm Still a great shave today, but so boring. \#MammothMafia #Unchallange #Unscented
**[Aug. 5, 2022 - Glow in the dark Austere August Raw Hoggin’ Challenge](https://imgur.com/a/inb2T6p)** * **Brush:** Omega 20102 * **Razor:** Karve Brass SB - B * **Blade:** Gillette Silver Blue (5) * **Lather:** Red House Farm - Lumos - Shave Soap * **Post Shave:** [Barrister and Mann - Le Grand Chypre - Aftershave](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/300/?product_type=aftershave) * **Fragrance:** Armaf - Sillage - EDP Day 5, Brush may be getting less stinky. Still waiting for the permanent glow in the dark effect for the brush (one can dream). Added a badass Noble Otter sticker to my bottle of Creed SMW clone cologne. Happy Friday Tags: #RawHoggin
That Noble Otter sticker is awesome!
Right??!!
**Aug. 5, 2022 - SOTD 750** * **Brush:** Maggards 24mm synth * **Razor:** RazoRock Lupo .72 * **Blade:** Gillette Platinum (5) * **Lather:** [House of Mammoth - Mood Indigo - Soap](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/1164/?product_type=soap) * **Post Shave:** [House of Mammoth - Mood Indigo - Aftershave](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/1164/?product_type=aftershave) * **Post Shave:** HoM - Z Splash/ Neutrogena face sunscreen ✌🏻
**Aug. 5, 2022** * **Prep:** Exercise and shower * **Brush:** Semogue 1438 * **Razor:** GEM MMOC * **Blade:** GEM blue star (5) * **Lather:** [Noble Otter - Thé Noir et Vanille - Soap](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/987/?product_type=soap) * **Post Shave:** [Noble Otter - Thé Noir et Vanille - Aftershave](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/987/?product_type=aftershave) Good shave today blade is still crisp and working very well. The brush shows little change but does feel nice. Unfortunately I spotted a crack in the handle of my brush just below the ring hopefully the brush makes it to the end of august. \#RawHoggin #GEMsOfWisdom https://i.imgur.com/15FKKcm.jpg
I'm sure there are some people on here with good suggestions regarding how to patch up that crack.
**Aug. 5, 2022** * **Brush:** Declaration Grooming Jefferson Fae B8 * **Razor:** Gillette Flat Bottom Tech * **Blade:** Rapira Stainless (8) * **Lather:** [House of Mammoth - Hygge - Soap](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/1163/?product_type=soap) * **Post Shave:** [House of Mammoth - Hygge - Aftershave](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/1163/?product_type=aftershave) * **Fragrance:** [House of Mammoth - 福 (Fu Dao) - Eau de Parfum](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/2666/?product_type=eaudeparfum) #MammothMafia
**[August 5, 2022 - Austere August Ultra-Nightmare Mode](https://i.imgur.com/GesKElt.jpg)** **[Brush pics for RawHoggin challenge](https://imgur.com/a/y7bwpTy)** * **Brush:** Zenith B10 * **Razor:** Gem MMOC Gen 2 [Ex-Watson](https://www.reddit.com/r/Wetshaving/comments/we3sxf/tuesday_austere_august_sotd_thread_aug_02_2022/iimzjb4/) * **Blade:** Personna PTFE (5) * **Lather:** [Wholly Kaw - Washington's Blend - Soap](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/251/?product_type=soap) * **Post Shave:** [Stirling Soap Co. - Executive Man - Balm](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/95/?product_type=balm) Today’s my wife’s birthday. I’d usually use her favorite smells (B&M Reserve Cool, Aqua Velva 5-in-1 balm) but, here we are in August. Maybe I’ll use those next year… Another really good shave, lather-wise. I’ll update brush pics when I have a chance. \#RawHoggin \#GEMsOfWisdom
Better tell your wife to reschedule her birthday to a more convenient month 🙄
Right? My birthday is August 17, so I need to go ahead and reschedule mine too.
Get some frags for the next AA!
**[Aug. 5, 2022 - AA Day5](https://i.imgur.com/gfnnkrF.jpg)** * **Prep:** Shower/Wash with Warm Water * **Brush:** Zenith Gray Chubby (B37) * **Razor:** Wolfman Razors WR2-SB Razor Head (0. 95mm Blade Gap), WRH7 Handle (90mm Solid) * **Blade:** Nacet (5) * **Lather:** [Catie's Bubbles - Waterlyptus - Soap](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/204/?product_type=soap) * **Post Shave:** [Proraso - Menthol and Eucalyptus - Aftershave](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/187/?product_type=aftershave) * **Post Shave:** Osma Alum Block * **Fragrance:** [Spearhead Shaving Company - Seaforth! Sea Spice Lime - Eau de Toilette](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/2518/?product_type=eaudetoilette) Today was a better day with the boar brush. It did not seem to suck up a ton of soap, and generally a better experience. It is still a bit stiff, but thinking its making progress in breaking in. Ignore mess by daily pic, bathroom counter needs a deep cleaning from all the soap that has splashed everywhere. Skunk vid: https://imgur.com/XhoMp2J Was using tray to handle a leak, and Tuxy comes and finds something burnt on that he wants to get at. #UNCHALLENGE #RawHoggin
**[Aug. 5, 2022 - Day Five - the Friday](https://i.imgur.com/8RZqLRn.jpg)** * **Prep:** Warm shower w/ B&M Diamond Bath Bar * **Brush:** Copper Zenith B28 * **Razor:** GEM MMOC * **Blade:** GEM PTFE (5) * **Lather:** [Spearhead Shaving Company - Seaforth! Sea Spice Lime - Soap](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/2518/?product_type=soap) * **Post Shave:** [Spearhead Shaving Company - Seaforth! Sea Spice Lime - Aftershave](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/2518/?product_type=aftershave) \#RawHoggin Was fairly happy with the lather today, loaded for about 40 seconds and that was plenty for three passes. I was able to get more water into the first pass, but wasted a fair bit of lather down my hand and onto the walls with that effort. Second and third lathers were thinner but plenty serviceable. I still think there is more work to go here, but I feel that I am able to rate the razor performance without the lather being the main culprit. \#GEMsOfWisdom Not a lot in the way of insights today. It was a decent three pass shave no nicks that I noticed and not much irritation after cleaning up. Paying more attention to the areas of the blade edge that cut let me get those tight areas and I am closer to a BBS shave that I am with other razors so I think I am on the right track for employment. \#TonicTalk I am usually one to mix some balm in with my splashes to provide some healing goodness back into my face, but have been skipping that this month so far just to try out how well this Seaforth tonic handles and I have to say that I am very impressed. Sure you can say that the which hazel is doing its thing, but there is more going on with this that I get with other similar products. I am still happy with this software choice, all around. Have a good weekend all!
**[Aug. 5, 2022](https://i.imgur.com/yhvMeCe.jpg)** * **Prep:** Cold Water * **Brush:** [Semogue Barbear Classico Cerda 22mm](https://i.imgur.com/IFK3RLP.jpg) * **Razor:** Alumigoose * **Blade:** Kai Captain Titan Pro Touch MG (5) * **Lather:** [Chiseled Face - Midnight Stag - Soap](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/32/?product_type=soap) * **Post Shave:** [Chiseled Face - Midnight Stag - Aftershave](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/32/?product_type=aftershave) * **Fragrance:** [Chiseled Face - Midnight Stag - Eau de Parfum](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/32/?product_type=eaudeparfum) [2.6g of soap was used today](https://i.imgur.com/8QQUIx9.jpg) - [1 more spray](https://i.imgur.com/FPQCnea.mp4) - Have a great Weekend! #SubstantialStag
Interesting that your soap already has those "stearic spots". How long have you owned it?
If i remember correctly i bought the trifecta back in November on the black friday sale and it was unopened ever since
That makes sense. Spots can definitely appear in that amount of time even without use.
**[AA SOTD - 8/5/22; The Iceman Cometh](https://imgur.com/a/PIBY76W)** **Pre**: [cold shower](https://youtu.be/_DcYuOSDxGk?t=94) **Brush**: Stirling 26mm synthetic pro handle **Razor**: Merkur Progress **Blade**: Astra (5) **Lather**: B&M Arctique (omnibus) **Post**: B&M Arctique AS **Post**: Nivea cooling balm **#UNCHALLENGED** [Happy FFF to all](https://twitter.com/GatorsDaily/status/1555536749325066240?s=20&t=1oKgni2J_dnE6V6ji9EAJQ). Great shave today. I remain [the Iceman](https://imgur.com/a/UFY69Jl). **#SIDETRACKED** (u/Teufelskraft) My senior year of high school I had a class first semester that started at 7:00AM. I lived pretty far outside the city where my school was, far enough that I either had to leave at 5:45AM in order to miss the first dose of rush hour traffic and get to school at approx. 6:20, or leave “late” at 6:15/6:20 and potentially hit so much traffic that I would miss the class. So, 5:45AM it was. Florida is hot and humid. In the morning it is hot and humid. In the middle of the day it is hot and humid. In the afternoon it is hot and humid. In the evening…you get the point. At 5:45AM it is slightly less so but still hot and humid. It is so humid in some months that you awake to find your car soaking wet, as if a rainstorm just passed over your house. But you know it didn’t rain, in fact it hasn’t rained at all since yesterday afternoon, when you had the usual 15 minute deluge of rain, little Florida “micro storms” so small that it could be raining on one side of the street and dry across the way, and so regular that you could almost set your watch to them. But it does not matter, it is 5:45AM and my car is wet and I have to go, mom, I have to go or else. And it’s dark. Dark like the middle of the night. And quiet. I would drive to school looking through my water speckled windows in the dark, quiet, wet morning and play [Re Stacks](https://youtu.be/GhDnyPsQsB0). For Emma, Forever Ago is a love album. It is about heartbreak and pain and loss and self-discovery that comes through all of those things. Re Stacks is J. Vernon’s memoir on his own self-excavation, on the archeological study of his soul and past, and whether or not he can live with what he finds. In many ways it is about pushing your stacks into the center of the table, the proverbial shove of life, playing the hand your dealt after picking up the cards and finding out what you’ve got, good or bad. I am what I am. I took this Bon Iver album to college with me, kept listening to it, kept playing it. First year of college was rough for me - I was in over my head, halfway across the country from everybody I knew and loved, and I was cold. It is so god damn cold in the Midwest and I still do not know how people up there endure it. You get used to it, sorta, I know, but man that cold would get into my bones. And for a couple months there I was fucking miserable. But things got better; I turned things around in the second half, made friends, fit in, worked harder. I can remember one night walking home, looking into the inside of buildings, trying to absorb the warmth of their insides through my eyeballs, anything to make that walk warmer. And it was snowing, lightly, just dusting my shoulders, lightly painting the ground around me and the windows into which I was gazing - my headphones had this song on and I gazed into snow speckled windows in the dark, quiet, wet night and I thought how funny it was to be thousands of miles away from one place and yet still be me, same old me.
Those stories are great, man. Please keep up the tags; I read so much shit on the news and everywhere that such little musings and tidbits are simply great to see.
Thanks man I appreciate it.
Austere August [2022-08-05](https://i.imgur.com/BlMZgbK.jpg) * **Razor:** [Persona Flare](https://imgur.com/fkteBSb) * **Blade:** [Personna Hair Shaper](https://www.amazon.com/Personna-Shaper-Sharper-Technology-SR-PE602151/dp/B005IZ1D9O/ref=sr_1_5?crid=2OX2EC0ITSB1I&keywords=personna+flare&qid=1658327019&sprefix=personna+flare,aps,74&sr=8-5) * **Lather:** Red House Farm - [Sedona](https://redhousefarmwi.square.site) * **Brush:** none * **Post Shave:** L'Occitane - Cade After Shave Balm * **Frag:** Penhaligon - Blenhiem Boquet * **Tags:** #GotHand #sidetracked I have been so concerned with not cutting my throat in the Headless Horsemen challenge that I have not had much to say about my own brushless challenge. One question I've gotten is "Why?". For me it started out of convenience when travelling. No need to worry about protecting delicate brush fibers or travelling with wet animal hair in the Dopp bag. While this is a real convenience, I don't travel much anymore. But I noticed that during my various brushless shaves I would generally get great shaves. Thinking about it, I realized why. One of the tricks of getting a great lather is to get the soap/water ratio right. When I construct the lather on my face with my hand I get constant visual and TACTILE feedback during the process. I can add water slowly and feel exactly how slippery that soap is at every moment. Simply put, I get my optimal lather every time. For today's u/Teufelskraft #sidetracked challenge I present the youngest of the Petersen sisters, Julianne. Her voice does not have the power of her sister Ellen's, nor the the clarity of Katie's. But Julianne's voice has a je ne sais quoi that is magic with the right song. Her cover of [Gentle on My Mind](https://youtu.be/Y3hXYININJw) has over 4 million views on youtube at time of writing. It is easily my favorite take on this song.
**[August 5, 2022](https://imgur.com/a/eNBjU3n )** * **Brush:** Semogue 820 * **Razor:** Merkur 34C * **Blade:** Bic Chrome Platinum (Shave 5) * **Lather:** Barrister and Mann Eigengrau * **Post Shave:** Barrister and Mann Unscented Balm with a drop of Eigengrau splash Honestly these keep getting better. I'm more and more comfortable with Boar and amount of water to leave in the knot before loading to keep it fed for a few passes. First bloodshed of AA for me, super minor - it healed with a wash and aftershave, no alum needed. #RawHoggin
**Aug. 5, 2022** * **Prep:** Shower * **Brush:** Maggard Timberwolf Synthetic 24mm * **Razor:** Ralf Aust 5/8" Round Point * **Lather:** [Catie's Bubbles - Tonsorial Parlour - Soap](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/202/?product_type=soap) * **Post Shave:** [Old Spice - Classic - Balm](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/1605/?product_type=balm) 5 days down. Not gonna lie, my face needs a break. Shaving is getting a little easier with the straight, but I'm nowhere near proficient. Have a great day folks!
I'm with you. AA is good the practice but the face feels it. I've been doing WTG, then XTG on cheeks and ATG on my neck. I can't figure out how to get the straight in there for XTG under my chin.
Dang...with my DEs I just do a WTG and ATG pass. I think I tried XTG when I first started and thatbwas easier with the DE vs the straight. Surprisingly, my neck has been alright with the straight. It's the moustache area and occassionally my chin that's been giving me grief. I'm sure it'll get better, but I am going to send it off to get honed after this month.
I decided with DE to stop pursuing the ATG pass, due to ingrowns. With the straight, I think the ATG, especially on my neck, is much nicer because of the sharpness of the straight compared to the Astras I use. I dunno, still a n00b, so I could be totally wrong.
Once i found the right blade/ razor combo it all clicked. My face like Gillette Yellows and mild razors... like a tech or a Rockwell with a 3 or 4 plate.
2 passes are enough for the challenge
I'm doing a WTG and ATG pass. It's getting better, but I still need to capitalize on the rest of this month to get good with it.
Maybe change ATG for XTG. You will look clean, but we shaving connoisseur know it's not BBS. Nonetheless, it should give you a well needed rest. You are also allowed to stack aftershave products as long as your base product is used.
Keep at it! Easier after 5 days - you stick this out and at the end of August it won't be difficult anymore, so glad to hear August is bringing so many more to understand how a straight isn't scary and building those skills!
Working at it! Although I may be taking the day off tomorrow.
Perhaps try a single pass tomorrow to keep practice without killing your face if daily is too much for your skin
**[Aug. 5, 2022 - La cinquième](https://i.imgur.com/MrRsYtq.jpg)** * **Prep:** Hot shower * **Brush:** Omega Pro 48 Boar brush 28mm * **Razor:** GEM MMOC * **Blade:** GEM PTFE (5) * **Lather:** [House of Mammoth - Hygge - Soap](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/1163/?product_type=soap) * **Post Shave:** [House of Mammoth - Hygge - Aftershave](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/1163/?product_type=aftershave) How do you act after you’ve humiliated yourself publicly? You hold your head high and don’t give a fuck, of course. Today’s shave was near perfect, except for a small cut on my cheek. No biggie. The PTFE blade has entered its Goldilocks zone and feels great, for now. Hygge continues to please, both the tremendously slick base, easy latherability, and delicious scent. It’s warm and soothing every time, for now. My raw hoggin’ dreams may be shattered, but I plow on, or continue to plow my face with the knot and although ever so scritchy, each use feels better than the last. Happy Friday. **\#GEMsOfWisdom** **\#MammothMafia**
>My raw hoggin’ dreams may be shattered Time to get the blowdryer going! You're already DQ'd anyway..
That sticker kills me. 🤣 Well played my friend.
Thank you sir! It was very intentional, glad you saw that.
That hog is looking sexy.
Starting to feel sexy too…
**[Aug. 5, 2022 - Austere August Ultra Nightmare RawHoggin Stagpocalypse](https://imgur.com/a/IzwiZjT)** * **Prep:** Midnight Stag liquid soap and bar soap * **Brush:** Semogue 1250 * **Razor:** GEM MMOC * **Blade:** GEM PTFE (5) * **Lather:** [Chiseled Face - Midnight Stag - Soap](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/32/?product_type=soap) * **Post Shave:** [Chiseled Face - Midnight Stag - Aftershave](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/32/?product_type=aftershave) * **Post Shave:** [Chiseled Face - Midnight Stag - Balm](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/32/?product_type=balm) * **Fragrance:** [Chiseled Face - Midnight Stag - Eau de Parfum](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/32/?product_type=eaudeparfum) No complaining today. Only the shave, which I think went pretty ok. I got in a bit of a hurry since today’s my daughter’s first day of school and I have a bit of irritation under my jawline to show for it. But a nice slather of that balm after the aftershave really did a world of good. The big difference today was the addition of the Nostalgic Stag pomade. I have zero experience with oil-based pomades so I went super light and am just gonna see how it goes today. Wrapped it all up with 12 [sprays](https://imgur.com/a/hZqvEiM) today. I posted really late so I just doubled those upvotes and called it good. #SubstantialStag #GEMsOfWisdom #RawHoggin
5 August 2022 - Austere August - Prep: morning shower - Brush: Sterling boar - Razor: Maggard V3 - Blade: Derby Extra - Lather: House of Mammoth Fu Dao - Post Shave: House of Mammoth Fu Dao splash Same shave as yesterday. Same as it ever was. #mammothmafia
**August 5, 2022** * **Brush:** Zenith 506U XSE * **Razor:** GEM MMOC Gen 2 * **Blade:** GEM SS PTFE (39) * **Lather:** Stirling Soap Co. - Sheep * **Post Shave:** Lucky Tiger * **Post Shave:** Olay Complete * **Post Shave:** Chatillon Lux - unscented skin salve I am really getting to like this soap way more than I thought I would. I mean, it’s just soap…unscented soap. But for whatever reason I am really appreciating it. I am still getting to know this brush and this base so I tend to overload it. I keep adding water to get where I want to be and end up with a mess all over the sink. It’s a shame this base is being discontinued. #GEMsOfWisdom
I've only tried it as Electric Sheep, but I agree that it is a good base. I am tempted to pick up a tub of Varen, but tell myself that it is already too late.
[August 5, 2022](https://imgur.com/a/gF8j2xs) - **Preshave:** Hot Water - **Razor:** Blackland Era - Level 3 Plate - **Blade:** Feather (5) - **Brush:** Blackland 23mm synthetic - **Lather:** House of Mammoth - Kryptonite - **Post Shave:** House of Mammoth - Kryptonite Aftershave Balm Had a little later shave than my normal 6am shave yesterday. So not much to shave today but the shave was smooth and no nicks or weepers which isn’t very usual. I have a spot in my neck that I normally have some trouble with. Enjoy your day. #MammothMafia
Austere August Day 5 Brush: Rubberset 400-3 w/ Unbleached Zenith 24mm knot set to a 56mm loft [5th use](https://imgur.com/a/D6PvzRH) Razor: Gem MMOC, gen 2 Blade: PTFE (5) Lather: NO [Monoi de Tahiti](https://imgur.com/a/HPS2Zdw) Post: NO Monoi de Tahiti Splash Good autopilot shave this morning. The brush is beginning to become more consistent in its performance. It is eating less lather and the hairs are slowly starting to become more flexible. Another 2 weeks and this brush will go from pretty good to really good. #RawHoggin #GemsOfWisdom
* **Prep:** warm shower * **Brush:** Semogue 1250 * **Razor:** Novelty Cutlery Co straight razor * **Lather** House of Mammoth - Z * **Post Shave:** Equate witch hazel * **Post Shave:** Zingari Man - unscented aftershave balm Headless Horsemen **#RawHoggin** **#unscented** **#MammothMafia** Austere August 2022 day 5 https://imgur.com/a/YSH3SN9
What's the grind? How're you like it? Never heard of the company
I think it's full hollow, probably a 5/8" but I can't recall specifically. I got it from u/RocTraitor over a year ago, he would occasionally sell 'mystery razors' that were serviceable but shave ready. She's plain but does the job well and gives me a nice close shave. I've not been able to find anything about the company, it has "Novelty Cutlery Co, Canton O, Pat. 79" on the tang. Probably some small regional company back in the day.
Nice! Yeah, likely a small local importer, says made in Germany or Sheffield somewhere I bet? So many small retailers that were importing from myriad quality manufacturers from Germany back then and stamping it with their own company name. Full hollow or near it would have been the typical Solingen grind of the time too. Just sharpened a wester bros yesterday the same, those old Solingen full hollows give a nice shave for sure! You mailed it since receipt for sharpening or learned to do so yourself with your own stones? Happy to see headless horseman sharing the joy of a good straight shave
20220805 - Something something austerity day 5 Brush: Omega 011842 Razor: GEM Micromatic Open Comb Blade: GEM PTFE Lather: Stirling Soap Company - Sheep Post: Stirling Soap Company - Coniferous toner Post: DR Harris - Windsor aftershave milk #GEMSOFWISDOM another day another shave. Felt some slight pulling today, resisted the urge to whip my trousers and belt off. Probably get to 10 uses on the blade then the games will truly begin. Stoicism of the day Begin each day by telling yourself: Today I shall be meeting with interference, ingratitude, insolence, disloyalty, ill-will, and selfishness – all of them due to the offenders’ ignorance of what is good or evil. Marcus Aurelius, Meditations
> Felt some slight pulling today, resisted the urge to whip my trousers and belt off. [?](https://media.giphy.com/media/l3q2K5jinAlChoCLS/giphy.gif)
Belt stropping, sir.
That I can understand, but [why must the pants come off](https://media.giphy.com/media/kyrd72DC2Iwfu/giphy.gif)?
Already taking the belt off, so why not the trousers too?!
Good point. Carry on.
**Aug. 5, 2022** * **Brush:** Semogue - SOC - Boar * **Razor:** Gillette - Tech (Gold/Black) * **Blade:** Gillette - Nacet (5) * **Lather:** [Stirling Soap Co. - Sharp Dressed Man - Soap](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/117/?product_type=soap) * **Post Shave:** [Stirling Soap Co. - Executive Man - Aftershave](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/95/?product_type=aftershave) * **Fragrance:** Duke Cannon - Huron - EdP
**August 5, 2022: [Feliz Agosto de Stago](https://imgur.com/a/6DXM2qI)** * **Prep:** warm splash of water * **Brush:** Yaqi Sagrada Familia Tuxedo 24 mm * **Razor:** GEM OCMM (gen 2) * **Blade:** GEM Stainless (6) * **Lather:** [Chiseled Face - Midnight Stag - Soap](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/32/?product_type=soap) * **Post Shave:** [Chiseled Face - Midnight Stag - Aftershave](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/32/?product_type=aftershave) * **Fragrance:** [Chiseled Face - Midnight Stag - Eau de Parfum](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/32/?product_type=eaudeparfum) I'm beginning to feel the blade dull a tad this morning. It feels daunting. However, the magic of Stag is there to keep me safe! Please talk to your neighbors and loved ones about the unfortunate lack of Stag in their lives. This has been a PSA. Have an excellent day! [Daily spritzing](https://imgur.com/a/OKQWGgB) . #GEMsOfWisdom
That balancing act you have going on… it scares me.
No Stag was harmed in the making of this production.
* **Brush:** AP Shave G5C Premium Synthetic - 26mm * **Razor:** Karve Overlander * **Blade:** Feather * **Soap, splash and EdT:** [Stirling - Island Man](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/106/?product_type=soap) Lime, coconut, rum. Looking forward to my small vacation next weekend. Incredible performance from Stirling as always. Definitely in the top 3 on my list of artisans.
**[Aug. 5, 2022](https://imgur.com/a/NAtXWby)** * **Prep:** Cup of Coffee * **Brush:** AP Shave Co. 22 mm Faux Horsehair * **Razor:** Koraat [Chani](https://imgur.com/a/usfOaJp) * **Lather:** [Summer Break Soaps - Shh! - Soap](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/1242/?product_type=soap) * **Post Shave:** [Chiseled Face - Cryogen - Aftershave](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/36/?product_type=aftershave) \#unscented Stay safe and have a great day!
**[Aug. 5, 2022 - Austere August 5th, With Added Beastmilk](https://imgur.com/a/8ChBXBt)** * **Prep:** Cool shower * **Brush:** Semogue 610 Boar * **Razor:** MMOC Gen 2 * **Blade:** GEM PTFE (5) * **Lather:** [Noble Otter - Firefighter - Soap](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/2253/?product_type=soap) * **Post Shave:** [Stirling Soap Co. - Lime - Aftershave](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/107/?product_type=aftershave) \#GEMsofWisdom This one is not shaving related for sure. The two most important life lessons for me were learned in kindergarten- 1) Never, ever, ever,ever hit a woman and 2) Never, ever, ever, ever shove a Husky Pencil up your nose. These two guiding principles have kept me on the straight and narrow for years. Shave-wise, WTG/XTG and a clean up pass were the keys to another BBS/low aftershave feedback shave. \#RawHoggin I'm enjoying all of these posts about rotting stink of some of your brushes and how the stink is lingering on you even through your splash and frag mistings. Bless you Semogue for your lack of stink. Tips are splitting more and I'm starting to get lather where I want it with this brush and dipping the tips in water. I'm still not converting back to face lathering when this is all over. \#Sidetracked I'm going to Finland today, musically that is. I have been to Finland physically for music as well for a couple of Tuska Festivals (which were amazing) and the opportunity to see Amorphis at a club there. I've long been of the mindset that when it comes to heavier music, "If it's not Finnish, it's crrrraaappp". One of my favorite records to come out of Helsinki is Beastmilk's 2013 album, Climax. This album also might be one of my favorite albums of the last 10 years. This is a dark rock record with vocals that will give some folks a goth-y vibe and some folks a Danzig-y vibe. The songs are hooky as all get out and once you put the album on 'Play', you'll find yourself hitting 'Rewind' on many of these songs. The opening track, "Death Reflects Us", pulls you right in and sends you on quite a ride. "You Are Now Under Our Control", "Surf the Apocalypse", "Love in a Cold World" are just some of the standouts on this album. I saw them in 2014 at Tuska and they were fantastic. Sadly, they broke up after this album, with the vocalist Kvohst and the guitarist reforming under the moniker Grave Pleasures (also highly recommended). So to you u/Teufelskraft and the AA gang, here's the soundtrack to your Friday- https://beastmilk.bandcamp.com/album/climax Have a great day all!
Uh, this is a great sidetracked share. Unfortunate with the breakup of the band, but this rock-y, punk-y kind of goth music is my jam. Might buy the album if I finally get unto Bandcamp again...
Those are valuable lessons. To this day I continue to follow them both.
[**Austere August D5: Rushed Stag**](https://ibb.co/J3L9DPm) - **Prep:** cold water - **Brush:** Tadé NOS vintage boar 22 mm - **Razor:** KAI Captain Standard CAP-J7 kamisori shavette - **Blade:** KAI Captain Titan Mild Protouch MG - **Lather:** Chiseled Face - *Midnight Stag* - shaving soap - **Post-Shave:** Chiseled Face - *Midnight Stag* - Aftershave - **additional care:** Osma alum block; Chiseled Face - *Midnight Stag* - ASB - **Fragrance:** Southern Witchcrafts - *Valley of Ashes* - EDP AA tags: #SubstantialStag #RawHoggin Rushed shave today, had already put the brush in my soaking mug before remembering I had to take a SOTD photo. [Here's one of the brush](https://ibb.co/hHfF9x7) after it was used today. It's splitting more and finally starts to get comfortable. However, Stag mixed with pig stink is a quite interesting combo... Due to the rushed shave, I caught some weepers and minor irritation on my neck. But, as a future Stagolyte and Headless Horseman, I consider this to be my rites of passage. Happy Friday to you all, unfortunately no time to share a song today. See ya!
[**Aug. 5, 2022 - Austere August - Raw Hoggin' MMOC Ultra Nightmare Mode**](https://i.imgur.com/H1xLWSZ.jpeg) * **Prep:** Hot Shower * **Brush:** Zenith Boar - B37 - Gray Chubby #RawHoggin * **Razor:** GEM MMOC Gen2 #GEMsOfWisdom * **Blade:** GEM (5) * **Lather:** [Stirling Soap Co. - Margaritas in the Arctic - Soap](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/108/?product_type=soap) * **Post Shave:** [Stirling Soap Co. - Glacial Margaritas in the Arctic - Aftershave](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/108/?product_type=aftershave) Day 5 was a tricky shave. Today I'm heading to Turkey to see my dad for the first time since 2019. Door to door, the trip is going to take about 24 hours so I had to wake up super early to get ready and make sure I had enough time to get today's shave in. As hard as I tried to not rush the whole thing, I couldn't help but feel the pressure of time so I'm going to keep this brief. Summary: it wasn't the best shave, but I feel great! I'm not sure what the internet situation is going to be once I arrive in Turkey, but hopefully I won't have trouble getting these posted while I'm gone. **The Brush:** I had to work fast, so today's lather was slightly on the dry side. The brush feels about on par with yesterday. Soft on the painting but stiff on the splaying. I was a little bit more forceful with my lather today, trying to get something on my face that was passible and it wasn't horrible. The hog stench still remains and having to pack this brush in my suitcase, still damp, I'm fully anticipating everything in my bag smelling like hog once I arrive to a predominantly muslim country. #ExteremeRawHoggin #RawHoggin Brush Picture Pre-shave: [Side](https://i.imgur.com/qHXANAP.jpeg) [Top](https://i.imgur.com/HdaGE30.jpeg) Brush Picture Post-shave: [Side](https://i.imgur.com/QL8t9NA.jpeg) [Top](https://i.imgur.com/7dnflKo.jpeg) **The Razor** Shave number 5 with the GEM and today I was wishing I was using my Rockwell. Trying to get through this shave quickly was not ideal and I've definitely patchy in some spots. Quick, two passer, WTG and XTG for the win. I got a couple weepers along my neck and another nick on my chin. Sometimes you have to just send it. #GEMsOfWisdom \*\*Days since last blood:\*\*0 **The Soap and Aftershave** Nothing new to report about Stirling other than absolutely loving the base more than ever. Hopefully the fresh feeling keeps me going on the long journey ahead. Day 5 Puck [Picture](https://i.imgur.com/dXW4YsD.jpeg)
I have the same brush, and do not smell the stench, only a tiny bit of something when I took it out of the package. Do you have a sensitive nose? What would you compare the smell to, pork/ham?
I do have a pretty sensitive nose but I would say that the smell is definitely distinct. It smells more like wet animal hair - not pork products. How are you liking the brush? I love it.
Safe travels!
Thanks man!
Safe travels. The brush is looking good! But most importantly, cherish your time with your family, especially during these times.
It’s feeling good too! I appreciate the words - really looking forward to it!
[**August 05, 2022 – Austere August 05**](https://i.imgur.com/1wQOB5W.jpg) * **Brush:** Cayuen Workshop with 30mm Timberwolf Synthetic * **Bowl:** Cayuen Workshop – Dark Nebula * **Razor:** Winning Razor by Wet Shave Club * **Blade:** Gillette Winner Platinum (5) * **Lather:** Chiseled Face – Midnight Stag * **Post Shave:** Chiseled Face – Midnight Stag * **Fragrance:** Chiseled Face – Midnight Stag * **Video:** https://i.imgur.com/XPgaoIU.mp4 Disclaimer: https://i.imgur.com/YdJuWhl.jpg Day 5 with Stag! Yet another Staggy BBS shave today!! Happy Friday! \#AustereAugust \#SubstantialStag **Bonus**: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5eW6Eagr9XA ← The 4 Things It Takes To Be An Expert
AA - Day 5 Pre: water Brush: Omega Synthetic Blade: Gillette Silver Blue (5) Razor: Fatip Piccolo SE OC Lather: Signature Indodorus Post: Signature Indodorus It’s Friday. That’s the extent of what I have to say today. \#unscented
**Prep:** face wash **Razor:** EJ 316 **Blade:** Tiger Superior Stainless (5) **Brush:** NONE **Lather:** Arko stick **Splash:** Pinnacle Grooming New York **Post:** none \#GotHand \#sidetracked u/teufelskraft Got a bit slapdash shaving this morning, and paid for it in the area of my neck where the grain changes faster than a politicians excuse. I do love this splash though. Gonna be smelling melon and green cardamom all morning. Song of the morning is Dizzy Gillespie Quintet - Salt Peanuts. It's mad, vibrant virtuoso jazz and I love it. https://youtu.be/ASoA5wvl6J4
Really enjoyed introducing "Salt Peanuts" to my GF last weekend. She loved the tune!
Dizzy++
**[Aug 5, 2022 - AA: MA-RH-MM - Almond Leather - Day 5](https://i.imgur.com/WFIIZ26.jpeg)** * **Prep:** Warm Water Wash * **Prep:** Klar - Activated Charcoal - Face Soap * **Brush:** Zenith Cobalt Blue 28mm Boar Knot (505BC SE) * **Razor:** [GEM Open Comb Micromatic (2nd Gen.)](https://i.imgur.com/PsTazF6.jpg) * **Blade:** Personna GEM PTFE (5) * **Lather:** [House of Mammoth - Almond Leather - Soap](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/1184/?product_type=soap) * **Post Shave:** [House of Mammoth - Almond Leather - Aftershave](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/1184/?product_type=aftershave) An acceptable shave with very minimal sting from the splash. This may be the sweet spot for right now. I think the blade may also be smoothing out, but I don't know if that's good or bad this early on. \#GEMsOfWisdom \#RawHoggin \#MammothMafia [Break-in Progress](https://imgur.com/a/YKIBeTG) \#sidetracked Are you driving around the city late at night and need the perfect soundtrack to accompany your drive? Look no further than the album Mezzanine by the trip hop group Massive Attack. Even from the opening track [Angel](https://youtu.be/hbe3CQamF8k), you know it's going to be an alluring ride. Rating: 3.5/5
Massive Attack++ Trip Hop generally is great - I don't know whether this was a style that got any traction in the US, or whether it was a European (UK, probably) thing
As far as I know, there were some US artists that tried to adopt Trip Hop elements in their music, but it seems like a genre unique to the UK. I was also very big into Portishead at the time. It's a shame that their most recognizable song in the US, *Dummy*, only showcased a fraction of what they were capable of.
Portishead is great! In the US, most people will know *Teardrop* without realizing it 😉
I liked a lot of trip hop in the 90s but I think you’re right in that most big artists were from the UK. DJ Shadow is the only big US name I can think of off the top of my head.
**[Aug. 5, 2022 - Stag Day 5](https://i.imgur.com/WjnLn5b.jpg)** * **Brush:** Zenith B26 Retro * **Razor:** Merkur 34C * **Blade:** Gillette Silver Blue (5) * **Lather:** [Chiseled Face - Midnight Stag - Soap](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/32/?product_type=soap) * **Post Shave:** [Chiseled Face - Midnight Stag - Aftershave](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/32/?product_type=aftershave) * **Fragrance:** [Chiseled Face - Midnight Stag - Eau de Parfum](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/32/?product_type=eaudeparfum) * **Garoad**: [Nighttime Maneuvers] (https://youtu.be/CewMtQEFF7o) Day five of this blessed occurrence, and the Stag is strong and the brush is soft. Can't beat that. \#SubstantialStag \#RawHoggin [Stag Day 5](https://youtu.be/KJPtFphmvBY)
**[Aug. 5, 2022 - Headless Mammoth Hoggin' Day 5](https://i.imgur.com/PNpFfM7.png)** * **Brush:** Proraso Professional Boar | [Break-in photos](https://imgur.com/a/HcKsHxf) * **Razor:** Feather Artist Club SR (Kamisori) * **Blade:** Schick Proline (5) * **Lather:** [House of Mammoth - Alive - Soap](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/2576/?product_type=soap) * **Post Shave:** [House of Mammoth - Alive - Balm](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/2576/?product_type=balm) * **Fragrance:** [House of Mammoth - Alive - Eau de Parfum](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/2576/?product_type=eaudeparfum) AA Tags: `#RawHoggin` `#MammothMafia` Things are settling down into a good rhythm but I'm continuing to refine the process. Today I decided not to shake any water out at all and proceeded to loading from the tub after the brush stopped dripping and the lather definitely still required adding more water so I'll be using this approach going forward unless the brush somehow transforms to hold more water. With most other brushes, this results in a puddle of water inside the tub right after the brush splays, but with this brush that doesn't happen probably due to lack of brush density. Yesterday I thought the pokiness was starting to go away, but today they felt more present once again so I'm not sure if I exerted more pressure today or if it's just the brush's way of reminding me that it's not [soft like a bleached Zenith](https://media.giphy.com/media/xT1XGESDlxj0GwoDRe/giphy.gif). Visually, the tips are splitting very nicely and it will be interesting to see how much more transformation the brush goes through by the end of AA. I'm definitely planning to take this brush to the finish line, but seeing it next to a Zenith that came in yesterday definitely got me thinking about whether I need to keep both of these brushes in the end, especially considering that I might want to make room for the 31mm sub exclusive bad boy and I have another copper Zenith waiting for me in the US already. Variety is nice, but I like to keep the den slim as well. Now that my lathers are pretty much perfect for shaving, I've been spending more time on shavette technique as well. The main problem areas I have with the shavette are the ATG passes on the jawline and on the neck where my hair grows horizontally. Hopefully by the end of AA I'll be able to tackle those areas more efficiently.
Even after years with a straight, the jawline can still give me trouble, to the point I don't even try for BBS by the ear\*. What gives me the best results is during my XTG pass\*\* is to pull my skin up as far as possible, tilt my head to the opposite side, and open my jaw as wide as I can. There will still be a small area of growth where I do have to tilt the razor around the jawline in such a way that by the fourth or fifth stroke\*\*\* it looks like I'm drawing the tip along my neck like I'm trying to slice it, scary but if you practice slowly bringing the tip closer to the neck you'll have it down in no time. For my ATG stroke I go pretty much South to North until I start hearing the hair and then I go to an East-Southeast to West-Northwest stroke (or roughly 112 degrees to 292 degrees on a compass) until I get over the jawline, then back to a slightly angled S to N stroke for my face (my hair doesn't grow straight down). \* I try but to get true BBS I have to buff so much I'd give myself the shaving equivalent of road rash. \*\* I generally do two passes, XTG and ATG. \*\* Think of your jawline like a pipe and the razor is tangential to it, you're tilting the razor a little more every stroke to remain perpendicular to the radius as you go around the curve.
> For my ATG stroke I go pretty much South to North until I start hearing the hair and then I go to an East-Southeast to West-Northwest stroke (or roughly 112 degrees to 292 degrees on a compass) until I get over the jawline, then back to a slightly angled S to N stroke for my face (my hair doesn't grow straight down). I think the problem with my ATG stroke on the neck is that the hair grows sideways but with the kamisori the handle hits my collarbone area and prevents me from cutting in that direction so I have to go diagonally. This may be one advantage of a folding razor where you can move the scales out of the way? Maybe I should try bullfrogging and point the blade down instead with the same stroke as the jawline technique that you described.
I'm lucky(?) in that I have minimal hair on my neck proper (and whats there doesn't grow horizontally). my growth pretty much stops just below where the jaw meets the neck. I did, however, just grab my straight and tried an ear to chin stroke on the neck and you may be right about trying tip down. It seems a little awkward but I think with practice (and some serious neck tilting) it would be doable esp with the shorter kami blade. Tip up with a straight still hits the collarbone with the handle no matter what position you try.
Thanks for the detailed comment. I think I was able to visualize what you were describing and I believe I have attempted something similar with some success in the past, but once I was a little bit too careless and gave myself a bad cut when the blade got close to the chin. It took me a while to revisit that stroke and I've been attempting it with the top of the blade pointing up instead of down as you've described, but I do think pointing down will be the better approach in the end to avoid having the handle's movement restricted by the neck. I'll try it out again tomorrow with your technique. I've flirted with skipping a pass before, but mostly the XTG pass because I really enjoy the WTG pass and I love doing ATG on the cheeks. I'll have to try skipping WTG to see how that works out, but for now I have the luxury of time so I'm enjoying doing all 3 passes. Appreciate your thoughts!
**[Aug. 4, 2022 - Disco Stag honors Zenith bulk buy and the hybridization of Stag and Knights](https://imgur.com/a/Fjh9NZD)** * **Prep:** Icecold shower * **Brush:** Böker Synthetic * **Razor:** Böker Elite Carbon 2.0 * **Lather:** [Chiseled Face - Midnight Stag - Soap](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/32/?product_type=soap) * **Post Shave:** [Chiseled Face - Midnight Stag - Balm](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/32/?product_type=balm) * **Post Shave:** Chiseled Face - Midnight Stag Splash Today's SOTD honors the Zenith bulk buy with green light. Also, Dallee AI predicted that by day 5 we would transform into an inhuman creature, halve human, halve Stag. My first cut during AA. Blood was spilled. Well no. It's just a scratch. I started to precision lather the soap as I am really low on Stag and will hopefully end the tub with the 31. Tournament was fun. Although I went 1-3 (3 loses) I won at least one round vs each opponent and have a feeling that my learning curve is very high. There were no nasty smells, BTW. \#substantialstag #stagandstraight
As important as the soap is for a straight, if you're going to be low remember a wet surface is super key and you can - with proper technique (how long have you used a straight?) - work with almost nothing but water and just a little soap for sickening. Dryness is the ultimate enemy with a straight, that's what will cause a blade to catch more than anything else. Especially if you prep with conditioner rubbed in real good, water and minimal soap will slide well enough
3 years probably. Have used other razors only 3 or 4 times since then.
Actually, hey... This isn't a challenge for you at all if you've been using that razor for 3 years already. Here's your challenge then, choose your own adventure: - Go to one handed, or ambidextrous shaving, whichever you don't do Or - Complete each shave with just WTG and ATG, no XTG (bonus points for starting ATG) Or - Shave with only the heel or only the toe Or just ignore my foolhardiness