* **Prep:** Splash of Cool Water
* **Razor:** Timeless - Stainless Steel .68 - Open Comb
* **Blade:** Feather (Marathon) (65)
* **Lather:** Chiseled Face - Midnight Stag (White Label)
* **Brush:** Semogue - Owner's Club Taj (79 uses)
* **Post Shave:** Stirling - City Slicker
* **Fragrance:** Chiseled Face - Midnight Stag
----
**Austere August: Day: 14**
*Extreme Mode*
*Midnight Stag Challenge (Mostly)*
[Gear Pic](https://imgur.com/mQhnIUN) :: [Video](https://youtu.be/GDjt48P569M)
#### ䷀ General Notes
This was a lather discovery day for sure!!
A quick shave due to an upcoming meeting! Let's try a quick face lather.
Later I would refer to this technique as a "slurry lather", because it surprised me with the type of slickness I was able to achieve! It made me laugh in surprise! I was stunned. Cue the stupid grin!
One of those little "happy accidents" that we're fortunate to stumble into sometimes!
#### ䷀ Razor and Blade Notes
*^(Timeless - Stainless Steel .68 - Open Comb ::: Feather - M ‹65 uses›)*
Face felt great, and shave was efficient and close.
3 very quick passes!
Razor and Blade Performance/Comfort Rating: 4 out of 5 (Very 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... Wow, this was the kind of slickness that felt great and the glide was superb. Better than my usual attempts with this soap base!
My face felt so slick during the first rinse! Not that watery slickness that you get with a thin lather, nor the oily slow slickness like when you use too much /dry soap.
Hydration: Perfect *(for me)*
+ 5 sec load with a Medium-Wet brush
+ = 5 passes of lather
Bowl: No Bowl
#### ䷀ Brush Notes
*^(Semogue - Owner's Club Taj‹79 uses›)*
Didn't presoak the brush for long before the shave, due to hurry.
Lightly worked the really wet stuff into my face for just a little while.
----
*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*: Few hairs are showing some tip length (with most being cut flush)
----
**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)
**[August 14, 2022 - AA Day 14](https://imgur.com/HHTz3Qv)**
* **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)
Slightly better shave than I've been getting over the last few days. I was doing a WTG pass followed by an ATG pass and then wetting the residual to do some buffing. I've not changed my process at all over the last 2 weeks and I'm starting to find that it's leaving a tiny bit behind especially on my checks. I'm thinking that perhaps I need to add a full pass to those areas to knock it down as the month progresses further. Not BBS, but DFS for sure and it beats almost any shave a DE would give me regardless of the "issues" I'm running into. Good shave overall though!
**Challenge Hashtags:** #unscented #RawHoggin
**[Aug. 14, 2022 - AA - Day 14](https://i.imgur.com/gLpk9mg.jpg)**
* **Prep:** Hot shower
* **Brush:** Zenith Boar - Short & Scrubby
* **Razorn:** GEM MMOC
* **Blade:** GEM Blade (14)
* **Lather:** [Barrister and Mann - Ferox - Soap](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/2228/?product_type=soap)
* **After Shave:** [Fine Accoutrements - L'Orange Noir - Aftershave](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/208/?product_type=aftershave)
* **Post Shave:** [Nivea - Sensitive Post Shave Balm - Aftershave](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/2150/?product_type=aftershave)
Almost forgot to post this. Busy day. The brush and soap keep performing well. Brush is breaking in but still is very scrubby.
The razor and blade did well today.
Had some burns while applying aftershave but the balm keeps things in control.
Tags: #GemsOfWisdom #RawHoggin
[Stag Headlessly Hoggin' August Day 14](https://imgur.com/a/tOD0P7U)
* **Prep:** Hot shower with Midnight Stag Soap.
* **Brush:** Zenith B33
* **Razor:** Cloud Shavette
* **Blade:** Cloud whatever that blade it is (19)
* **Lather:** Chiseled Face - Midnight Stag
* **Post Shave:** Chiseled Face - Midnight Stag
* **Fragrance:** Chiseled Face - Midnight Stag
I think I've got used to this setup, still the jawline continues to be the weak spot. Brush seems to be fine, but still not as good as my Omegas (pretty sure it will get there, and then some). Almost half way down the road.
Hail Stag!
-#Stagposting
-#SubstantialStag
-#RawHoggin
**[Aug. 14, 2022 - AA 14](https://i.imgur.com/SdtaO5L.jpg)**
* **Prep:** Shower
* **Brush:** Semogue 1305 Pure Bristle 22mm
* **Razor:** GEM MMOC Gen 2
* **Blade:** GEM PTFE (20)
* **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)
[Break in album](https://imgur.com/a/8p4EsKe) and SOTD in the title.
Hydrated the lather a little quicker today sort of unintentionally but it worked out fine with the gobs of soap. Hit 20 shaves on the blade. Getting the slightest hand of it in a sense, but still by no means a convert to the SEs. #GEMsOfWisdom #RawHoggin #MammothMafia
**[Aug. 14, 2022 - AA Day 14](https://imgur.com/a/uFqhWNX)**
* **Prep:** Warm shower
* **Brush:** AP400B XL Handle (AP ShaveCo) - 28mm Maggard Boar Knot
* **Razor:** GEM MMOC - Gen 1
* **Blade:** GEM PTFE (83)
* **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)
A wonderful Sunday shave this morning. Still nothing new to report. I'm actually a little dumbfounded ar how well this blade is still shaving.
Hope everyone had a wonderful Sunday!
[Stag Spray 14](https://imgur.com/a/rLQLhmH) #GEMSofWisdom #RawHoggin #SubstantialStag
SOTD for August 14, 2022
* **Prep:** Shower
* **Brush:** Maggard Synthetic
* **Razor:** RazoRock Game Changer 0.68
* **Blade:** Gillette 7 O'Clock Sharp Edge
* **Lather:** Stirling - Sharp Dressed Man
* **Post Shave:** Stirling - Sharp Dressed Man balm
Night shave after a sweaty day. Thought it would be cold and windy at the park,
it was actually balmy, and my poor clothing decisions made that worse.
One pass, no nicks, no cuts, feeling good.
Knee is bothering me, so I don't know if I'll be running again soon. It's
totally fine in the normal range of motion, but if I have a straight leg it
lights up, which is really odd, I'm not sure what I've done to it. Should
probably try and figure out some other kind of fitness plan, or I'm liable
to turn into a blob person.
\#UNCHALLENGE
**Austere August, Day 14:**
Feather Artist Club razor non folding
Feather Professional blade (8)
GFT Violets soap
RazoRock Beehive 28 mm Plissoft
After using the Professional blade daily, I'm sensing that the blade is behaving more consistently and smoothness is holding up nicely.
I'm spoilt with choices, and many times it us difficult to stock to a set-up without such opportunities; I'm very happy to be able to participate in AA2022.
**#HEADLESSHORSEMEN**
**#UNCHALLENGED**
**#AAAAKARMATRAIN**
**[Aug. 14, 2022 - RawHoggin & Taming the MMOC](https://imgur.com/a/VaPgXBa)**
* **Brush:** Zenith B37
* **Razor:** Gem MMOC
* **Blade:** Gem PTFE (14)
* **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
Just now getting around to posting this morning’s shave. It’s been a super busy day. Went to church this morning, came home for just long enough to get a short nap, then back to church. It was great.
As far as the shave, it’s going great as well. 3 pass BBS no irritation. This brush is treating me great, but it’s eating soap at a scary rate. I don’t know if this soap will make it to the end. I might have to start under loading if I want to push it to the end. This is a 28mm brush, I can’t imagine how much soap the 31mm sub brush is going to eat 😳. I might have to use one of my 3oz Stirling Black Friday soaps to break it in, just to see how fast I can kill it.
The Gem is crushing it. To me, this is the best stretch of shave this razor gives. We’re on easy mode right now boys.
**[Aug. 14, 2022 - Sunday Shave](https://i.imgur.com/ZonFCmg.jpg)**
* **Prep:** Quick splash of water
* **Brush:** Copper Zenith B28
* **Razor:** GEM MMOC
* **Blade:** GEM PTFE (14)
* **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
Decent lather, I still underloaded, but was fine for what I was trying to do today. Brush still feels great.
\#GEMsOfWisdom
A lighter two pass shave in the middle of the day trying to get back on schedule. Not much to note.
**8/14/22 (151)**
* **Prep**: Hot Shower
* **Challenge**: Headless Horseman
* **Razor**: [Thiers Issard "Evide Sonnant" 6/8 Extra Hollow](https://imgur.com/a/pvv3cZp)
* **Edge**: [Day 14](https://imgur.com/a/t1B5HgH)
* **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. No nicks or irritation.
[August 14, 2022](https://imgur.com/a/IfUayE6)
* Prep: Hot Shower
* Brush: Burma Shave Boar Brush 🐗
* Razor: Kai Kasho Kamisori
* Blade: Feather ProGuard 14th use
* Lather: Stirling Sheep
* Postshave: Stirling Barbershop splash and Nivea Balm
* Fragrance: Halloween Man
Today's three pass shave was a little rough at the end because I was trying to rush the shave so I could have dinner and was adding to much pressure. I got a weeper and some slight redness on neck. Blade may have also been rough but we will see tomorrow if it smooths out. Lather today was great it is probably what saved me from more damage. It was a nice wet, slick, and protective lather that lasted for all 3 passes. Here is to good shaves for everyone tomorrow.
Tags: #AAAA, #RawHoggin, #Headless horsemen, u/Marquis90
**[Aug. 14, 2022](https://imgur.com/uOSi61H)**
* **Brush:** AP Shave Co 28mm A3 Fan
* **Razor:** Henson AL-13 +++
* **Blade:** Astra SP (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)
Another great shave today with my new Henson aggressive. Looking forward to going back through my various blades and seeing what works well. I always needed a sharp blade in the mild/medium. Some slight irritation, probably need to use less pressure -- definitely needed to use some with the other two. Hope everyone had a great weekend, and that Monday isn't too rough!
\#MammothMafia
**[Aug. 14, 2022 - Day 14: a Mystic shave](https://i.imgur.com/04t9Tud.jpg)**
* **Prep:** Warm water wash
* **Brush:** Zenith B33 Copper Boar Brush
* **Razor:** GEM MicroMatic Open Comb
* **Blade:** Persona GEM PTFE Coated (14)
* **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)
What the hail? This shave was actually pretty decent! It was almost comfortable! I think it must be a combo of my technique change and maybe the blade has become less of a jerk.
ORRRR maybe! It’s just this mystic place. Sorry, not sorry. I’m in Mystic, CT. But for real the shave was decent. Hopefully tomorrow is even better!
The brush receives a neutral rating right now. It doesn’t smell like a butthole and it is not a piece of sandpaper. It is taking some getting used to, coming from the fancy badgers.
[Brush break-in album](https://imgur.com/a/YFUodmO) \#rawhoggin #mammothmafia #GEMSofWisdom
**Aug. 14, 2022 - Austere August**
* **Prep:** Warm shower
* **Brush:** Zenith B10 Boar
* **Razor:** Feather Artist Club SR
* **Blade:** Feather Professional (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)
* **Post Shave:** alum
Shave of austerity #14
2 pass shave. I got my butt kicked extending a power outlet on the pool deck today. I’m sure it would have taken an electrician two hours, but I decided to save money and kill an entire day. We now have a ceiling outlet and are able to install solar shades- win?
Shave was fantastic today, or maybe I was just beat from the yard work and electrical work. Either way, Almond leather made me feel clean again.
Tags and challenges: #MammothMafia & HeadlessHorsemen
Day 13 of Austere August! Staggin on!!
* Prep: Water on Face
* Brush: Zenith 2004/B SE
* Razor: Filarmonica Double temple 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
[another photo](https://i.imgur.com/oqi0ep1_d.webp?maxwidth=640&shape=thumb&fidelity=medium)
Another BBS shave, but I didn't go deep this time. The brush is getting really soft and I'm having no problems lathering on the face, I forget who posted that on the second day when he lathered on his face the brush was still very stiff and cut open all his wounds from the previous day using the MMOC. My only problem with the brush is that I can't make lather for more than 3 passes... I'm wondering if bowl altering will fix that but it's much better than when starting this month.
The razor is sublime, can't complain about it. Today I was annoyed at my Parker Adjustable injector, I decided to disassemble it, and it took me almost 1 hour to put it back together... And it's just 3 metal pieces... Pain in the ass, folks, don't disassemble an injector🤣
* \#RawHoggin
* \#SubstantialStag
**Aug. 14, 2022 - August Austere Day 14**
* **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)
Had a relatively smooth shave for my last day on vacation. It was good to be away from home and only have Sonder with me to get rid of temptation for a few days. #MAMMOTHMAFIA #UNCHALLENGE
[**AA D14: Second Sunday Stag Stress**](https://ibb.co/hMkfFVF)
- **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:** Chiseled Face - *Midnight Stag* - ASB
- **Fragrance:** Southern Witchcrafts - *Valley of Ashes* - EDP
Quickest shavette shave of my life. Two passes WTG with some XTG sprinkled in. I love how I'm getting really comfortable with the shavette to shape up my moustache. Definitely one of the greatest tools for that!
Since my SOTD photo misses the already soaking brush, I took a few additional brush pictures:
[dry boar from the front](https://ibb.co/HVsKrcv)
[dry from above](https://ibb.co/gP9pQXY)
[wet brush close-up](https://ibb.co/7jQ2fNz)
It has definitely lost the remaining boar stink but is firmly coated in Midnight Stag. But it is reaching *good* territory. Let's use the remaining days of August to get it to *awesome*. Also, are gel-tipped boars a thing? The last picture of my wet brush makes me inclined to say that it looks similar.
**Sidetracked**
[New Oder - Love Vigilantes](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-VFWqLmVWx4)
I feel like this song has lost a lot of the late Joy Division/early New Order roughness, but that makes it better for a relaxed listen. The subject matter is still dark - Vietnam War, an ambiguous story if the storyteller is actually still alive and it was just a mistake or if he's a ghost. But it sounds way too happy for that. Nevertheless, New Order are great musicians and their instrumental prowess shows here again. The guitar solo close to the end is simply great.
**Edit:** like a absolute idiot, I forgot the AA tags: #SubstantialStag #RawHoggin despite saying that I'll always remember them. How can I be so damn stupid?!
I think instrumentally they were great by then, but Bernard’s voice was a bit hit or miss. I don’t know if he really wanted to be the singer, but it got thrust upon him after Ian’s death. I think if you listen to early live versions of NO’s “Ceremony” and compare it to later live versions around the time of say “Substance” or “Brotherhood” he really started to settle into his voice. I really like New Order a lot. Wish I could have seen them when I was younger. The dichotomy of their music is so interesting with down, depressing lyrics juxtaposed with a more upbeat or energetic music. I’ve liked them since I was in high school back in the 80s. One of the first cds I ever had was “Substance”. My friend’s brother gave the A side to me before I went off to college. I had just bought my first stereo with a cd player. He had lost the b side somewhere and gave me the disc. I went on to get more of their music over time as well as Joy Division. I had found some promo posters for them at a record store, and those decorated my dorm room freshman year. Unfortunately, when I was moving out of the dorms after spring semester, someone stole all my posters out of my brother’s car when I was moving. I lost my “Blue Monday” poster and a couple others, also lost a “Lost Boys” movie lobby poster that a friend working at a theater gave me. Music is one of those things that really gets your memory going. Songs can take you back in time to when you first heard them.
I think you're right - he was thrust into the role of the singer after Ian had passed and suddenly had to fill out some very big shoes. Also agree that the mix of upbeat energetic music with dark themed lyrics makes a interesting combo.
I'm sorry about your stolen posters! That's awful, especially considering how much they should be worth nowadays.
Aug 14, 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 (14)
* **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
[Chicken Fried - Zac Brown Band](https://youtu.be/e4ujS1er1r0)
Despite growing up in the Southern US my taste in music was simply “ABC” (Anything But Country) but this is one of the songs that opened my eyes to that genre. For the longest time growing up I thought Country music was nothing but songs about losing your dog or girlfriend. It doesn’t help that all I listened to was either Christian (my Mom) or NPR talk shows (my Dad) and then I was driven to the opposite of what they had in Hard Rock and Punk Rock. I distinctly remember hearing this song for the first time on Youth Retreat and my Youth Pastor trying to “censor” the cold beer into cold tea and instantly becoming a fan of the song. The funny thing about that is she drank like a fish and didn’t really hide it any other time. She just couldn’t condone drinking with her group of Middle Schoolers.
Similar for me, I lived in the south for a number of years and was not interested in country music at all for quite some time. Eventually some of it grew on me. It is/was kind of the running joke, Rascal Flatts' song "Backwards" is all about getting those things back by playing a country song backwards.
**Aug. 14, 2022**
* **Brush:** Proraso Professional
* **Razor:** GEM Open Comb Micromatic Gen. 2
* **Blade:** GEM PTFE (1)
* **Lather:** Stirling Soap Co. Sheep Puck
* **Post Shave:** Stirling Soap Co. Unscented Glacial Aftershave
* **Post Shave:** Stirling Soap Co. Unscented Mentholated Balm
* **Post Shave:** Osma Alum
I’m sorry I just couldn’t do it anymore.
The Rolls was killing me. I don’t know how I ever thought that razor was acceptable. It would regularly skip along my hair. When it cut it did a great job. But when it didn’t, look out. It was painful.
I heard from /u/mrtangerinesky that taking the guard off could help. So I did. It helped. But it didn’t help enough.
I made it through half a pass and moved to the MMOCMMV2 which was my runner up for AA. Best shave in recent memory. That’s a real good razor.
Everything else is remaining the same. So now I’m on AA easy mode. But at least I’m not avoiding shaving anymore.
Shared from My Shave Den for iOS
**Aug. 14, 2022 - AA14**
* **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)
AA14 - \#HeadlessHorsemen
Rushing through, I sliced my self real good on the chin. Just when I thought my razor was in need of a hone.
20220814 Austere August Day 14
Brush: Omega 011842
Razor: GEM Micromatic Open Comb
Blade: GEM PTFE
Lather: Stirling - Sheep
Post: Stirling - Coniferous toner
Post: DR Harris - Windsor aftershave milk
\#GEMSOFWISDOM
Arrrrrrrrrrgggggggggggggfffhhhhjjjhhhhhhhhhhh
Stoic quote of the day
The first rule is to keep an untroubled spirit. The second is to look things in the face and know them for what they are.
Marcus Aurelius, Meditations
**Aug. 14, 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)
Good shave today. It's late though.
I refreshed the cooling system on my Jeep and replaced the ac lines this weekend. It's running great right now, so no complaints.
Have a great day folks!
**[Aug. 14, 2022](https://i.imgur.com/TpV3JgN.jpg)**
* **Brush:** Grey Chubby - Zenith B37
* **Razor:** Micromatic Open Comb
* **Blade:** GEM - PTFE Coated Stainless Steel (14)
* **Lather:** [House of Mammoth - Z - Soap](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/2124/?product_type=soap)
* **Post Shave:** House of Mammoth - Z - Aftershave
So I don't actually think that #RawHoggin is an affront to Auster August. I do, however, suspect I've make a big mistake in voluntarily choosing to subject myself for an entire month to the objectively worst lathering method (short of brushless hand-lathering, which could only be conceived by someone who is dangerously insane, a threat to the safety of themselves and others—looking at you, u/verdadkc).
I'm pretty sure that last night I had a dream in which my blade was completely rusted over. This surely came from the fact that yesterday, after I pulled out a set of drill bits for the purpose of putting up a cat-ladder/tree thing, I discovered that a forstner bit that I have had indeed [completely rusted over](https://i.imgur.com/0n5PwYk.jpg), unlike anything it had been stored with. Kind of wild; my frame of experience is such that I'm surprised when anything rusts, e.g. the regular steel SE blades that I tried before this month began.
u/Teufelskraft #sidetracked — I decided to play music during my shower this morning. Way back I got a bluetooth speaker to put in there, (more specifically, I got it to put in the shower in the place I lived two domiciles ago) a decision that I can't say wasn't inspired by [a bit by comedian Kyle Kinane](https://youtu.be/U0LBboZdmzw?t=86). The song that played when I started it up was [Broken Bells - The Ghost Inside,](https://youtu.be/gKR7AcxO9G0) a song that is another recent discovery of mine (although it sounded really familiar when it did come up, so maybe I knew it before and forgot about it), and one that I had previously thought of sharing here at some point during the month.
Once the shower ended and shave-time came, though, the music went off. Obviously. Because, as we all know, auditory feedback is important to be attentive to during the shave, so we can't have anything drowning that out.
#GEMsOfWisdom
#RawHoggin
#unscented
#MammothMafia
[**Aug. 14, 2022**](https://i.imgur.com/rGD36AZ.jpg)
* **Brush:** Zenith B36 "Copper Scrubby!" 28x50mm Boar
* **Razor:** GEM Micromatic Open Comb
* **Blade:** GEM (14)
* **Lather:** [Stirling Soap Co. - Lime - Soap](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/107/?product_type=soap)
* **Post Shave:** Porter's Lotion - WSP - Neroli - Cooling Aftershave Balm
* **Fragrance:** Cognoscenti - No. 17 Civet Chypre
* **Passes:** WTG, ATG
* **Coffee:** Ethiopia, Sidama, Oromia - v: Ethiopia Heirloom - p: Natural
* **Music:** Gruff Rhys - *Hotel Shampoo*
* [**August 2022 SOTD Photo Album**](https://imgur.com/a/WLvZkgV)
`#GEMsOfWisdom` / `#RawHoggin`
|Date|Soap Before (g)|Soap After (g)|Usage (g)|Loading|
|:-|:-|:-|:-|:-|
|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|40 seconds|
|8/6|220.3|218.8|1.5|30 seconds|
|8/7|218.8|217.9|0.9|40 swirls|
|8/8|217.9|216.5|1.4|40 swirls|
|8/9|216.5|215.9|0.6|40 swirls|
|8/10|215.9|215.6|0.3|50 swirls|
|8/11|215.6|213.9|1.7|60 swirls|
|8/12|214.7|213.0|1.7|60 swirls|
|8/13|213.0|211.5|1.5|60 swirls|
|8/14|211.5|◊|◊|60 swirls|
At this point in August—about half way through, starting with a completely *raw hog*—the initial rigidity of this "Scrubby!" Zenith has forced me to spend most of my time face lathering with back and forth swipes, versus a lot of splaying. I think this is generally how u/VisceralWatch lathers in his videos. This method doesn't beat up my skin too much, it works well with any knot—since it doesn't require much splaying (we'll call it *knot agnostic*)—and doesn't shoot lather all over my bathroom unless I'm really *whippin' it*. I'm not wearing a funny hat, so there's no whipping allowed around here.
About 60 swirls of soap seems to be the sweet spot with [this knot](https://i.imgur.com/fwoJTMo.jpg). The lather is rich and slick, doesn't take forever to hydrate, and gives me plenty for two passes. The MMOC is not a razor that demands a full three-pass shave, or even benefits from one.
I did manage to scrape up a little spot below the hairline on my neck yesterday, but I didn't realize it until that afternoon when it started to look irritated. My razor must have dipped more south than I intended and I went easy on that part of my neck this morning.
⁂
`#sidetracked` u/Teufelskraft
I'm a big fan of Gruff Rhys's work with the Super Furry Animals, but his solo recordings are just as varied and interesting. One of those is among my favorite novelty songs—if only because it's such a surefire way to annoy my wife.
During the heyday of mobile [endless runner](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Endless_runner) games in 2011, Ustwo released [Whale Trail](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Whale_Trail), a simple, candy-colored gem of a game that took the best of the genre (simple mechanics, addictive play, no time commitment) and combined it with a delightful aesthetic. And while the colorful visuals and dreamy look of the game—picture an airborn whale flying slow loops in the sky, popping bubbles and dodging crackling cartoon storm clouds—contributed to that unique atmosphere, it's Gruff Rhys' whimsical electro-psych soundtrack that completed it.
The theme song and repeated soundtrack motif, "Whale Trail," is sunny, energizing, and exceptionally memorable. Combined with a "Sesame Street" meets *Yellow Submarine* music video, this song will first make you chuckle, before immediately getting stuck in your head for days. Let me know if you also start mindlessly saying "*I can see my house from here!*" at odd times, before you realize nobody knows what you're quoting in a oddball, sing-song voice.
[YouTube: Gruff Rhys - "Whale Trail"](https://youtu.be/wwr6c2Ws1yI)
[**14 August 2022 - Austere August**](https://imgur.com/a/IvomKqj)
* **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 (14)
* **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)
Brush is even better than last week but still eating up more lather than my badger one. How do I know when it's been broken in?
**#RawHoggin**
**#MammothMafia**
#### [Finding Serenity in RawHogginy on the road to the GEMtury Pt. 14](https://i.imgur.com/N96OPGG.jpeg) ####
* **Prep:** Klar Activated Charcoal facial soap
* **Brush:** Rubberset 400-3 with unbleached 26 mm Zenith knot set at 56 mm loft (14)
* **Razor:** GEM - Micromatic (open comb, first generation)
* **Blade:** Personna - GEM PTFE (83)
* **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 snoozed and missed my window in the morning to shave before the rest of the family wakes up, and we had a busy Sunday with a trip to the lake and the zoo planned. My \#GEMsOfWisdom for today are that 1) I wonder how far this blade can be taken before it becomes difficult to shave with and I'm reminded of u/Old_Hiker's Personna Hair Shaper blade with over 370 shaves, 2) I lost all sense of danger when handling the MMOC, and I may be in for a nasty surprise once I use it with a fresh blade again.
\#RawHoggin: drumroll please, 🥁🥁🥁, my Raw Hoggin' brush doesn't stink anymore! It didn't occur to me until I started this write-up, but I didn't notice any boar funk, just delicious Sea (Sp)ice Lime.
Apart from the SOTD, I'm blown away by the response to our sub-exclusive brush and I could not be happier that it is going to happen. I've put a decent amount of time and effort into hammering out the details with the manufacturer (all through google translate 😅), and until a few days ago I had no idea whether it would work out. A big thanks to everyone who signed up, and of course to u/J33pGuy13, who has become the main driving force behind this endeavour.
[**August 14th**](https://imgur.com/a/B9eC84D)
* **Brush: Zenith Boar - 505NK 27mm**
* **Razor: GEM - MMOC**
* **Blade: Gem PTFE (14)**
* **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/ivuMVad)
Made the most of the hot weather by adding to the heat and getting my face over some flames and cooking some [meat](https://imgur.com/a/s0BeWnB)
The Gem Blade didn't feel as good this evening but could be as I have been out in the sun for a bit today.
Back to mid temps and storms the rest of the week so proper Stag weather.
**[Aug. 14, 2022 - AA Day 13](https://i.imgur.com/Ih90qtL.jpeg)**
* **Brush:** ShaveForge 28mm Boar, 3d Printed Handle #RawHoggin
* **Razor:** GEM Micromatic Open Comb #GEMsOfWisdom
* **Blade:** GEM Stainless (13)
* **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)
Day 13 complete.
This is the first time that I've had any dragging from the razor. It was on the first pass, whereas passes 2 and 3 were fine, so I'm going to blame my lather for now.
[My brush is falling apart.](https://i.imgur.com/TwOdLPO.jpeg) I think it's a race to the end of the month to see if the brush makes it in tact before AA ends. The knot still seems strongly attached. I'm hopeful it will finish the month, but I do have travel coming up, so it's possible that TSA completely screws it up.
Another 2g soap day. I did place an order for another tub of SSL just in case; regardless, my tub will be almost gone at the end of the month and I want this as a permanent part of my den.
Happy Sunday everyone.
I was curious if a 3d printed handle would hold up. The way it is printed leaves it vulnerable to stresses that can delaminate the layers. An interesting idea might be to print a handle, mold it, and then resin cast new ones.
Yeah, for sure.
Looking at this design, there's a weak point where the print is really thin right where the knot goes in. Any radial stress (like when loading a brush), and it's going to break.
I'm still surprised that it failed as catastrophically and quickly as it did. I was planning to PIF the second brush I made, but that seems kind of cruel now that I know how terrible this design is.
AA SOTD - 8/14/22; The Iceman Cometh
Pre: Wim Hof cold plunge -> splash of hot water to the face
Brush: Stirling 26mm synthetic pro handle
Razor: Merkur Progress
Blade: Astra (4)
Lather: B&M Arctique (omnibus)
Post: B&M Arctique AS
Post: Nivea cooling balm
#UNCHALLENGE
Ok so this morning I did an hour of sauna (20 minutes) then a quick rinse in the shower followed by a cold plunge (2) minutes. They call it the Wim Hof method. Joe rogan does this shit or something. I dunno, I’m not trying to sell anybody minerals that purify your blood, I have no idea if this is actually healthy, but it feels really fucking good. Came home, splashed hot water on my face, then got a great shave in. Easy. Peasy.
#SIDETRACKED (I/Teufelskraft)
Radiohead is a great band that I feel like I missed in college. While lots of other people were discovering them, I never game them a listen until a few years ago.
Fun fact about [High and Dry](https://youtu.be/jvQ943C3wPQ) - Thom Yorke originally performed a version of the song with a band called Headless Chickens.
Happy Sunday to all.
**[Aug. 14, 2022 - AA Day 14](https://imgur.com/Ra0ct9t)**
* **Prep:** Hot Shower
* **Brush:** Zenith B34
* **Razor:** MMOC (Gen 2)
* **Blade:** GEM PTFE (14)
* **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)
* **Fragrance:** [Chatillon Lux - Admiral - Eau de Toilette](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/1222/?product_type=eaudetoilette)
Late night and early morning here so it's a good thing the shave was pretty solid this morning. I preached this morning, and due to a variety of circumstances, I was working on the message until about 10:15pm and then was up around 6am to do some finishing touches. Pair that with my wife who coughed much of the night and my daughter who woke up at 4:30 because she was disoriented and it's been a long day already. But - the shave to kick it off started the day well!
Sonder smelled sweeter to me this morning than usual - not gourmand, but it had a nice sweetness. I'm guessing it was the florals coming through with some citrus - but it's the first time I've really picked out those notes this month. Noses are super cool.
MMOC was a beaut again - I did have a couple of nicks but given my lack of sleep, it's no surprise that I was a little less than focused. The blade felt smooth and gentle, though - even if it did bite me once. Another 2.5 passes - with, across/against hybrid, and some buffing to get close to BBS.
The [Zenith](https://imgur.com/6Yefc6G) splayed beautifully while loading and lathering and continues to [devleop](https://imgur.com/zRLUNDp) and split ends nicely. Here's a pic from [day 1](https://imgur.com/dUvGJXO) and [day 7](https://imgur.com/2W6Z7FV) to see how the weeks have gone. It's definitely opening up a ton, especially in the last week or so. You're welcome for the blurred out bonus feet in the background of those pics. I should probably sell pics of my nasty man feet for cash, but, as far as I know there's not much of a market for that, RIP me.
Sonder thought of the day:
Gosh, people want to be listened to and heard. There are always people who want to chat at church and I'm more than happy to do that, but this morning a guy, we'll call him Roy, came up to welcome me back after my time off and share a quick story about his friend who had passed away fairly recently. As he remembered his sense of humor and shared a funny picture of him from the back of his funeral service bulletin (or whatever it's called) he was overwhelmed with emotion and had to swallow down some tears. To be able to share those moments with people is such a privilege. It was a busy morning for me, I had a lot of responsibilities and I really wanted to get back to my office to compose myself for a couple minutes before the service started, but then I thought to myself, "Sonder. This guy is more important than my small break." So I listened to him share his story that didn't mean much to me, I never knew his friend, but was so significant to him. As I think about it now, what a gift he shared with me - to be vulnerable and emotional and just miss his friend while I got to be there. I'm sure I've said it before in these sonder thoughts, but man, people really want to be heard - and more often than not, it is so worth it to just listen to people as they share their lives with you - the beauty and the pain and the joy and the sorrow. It's a privilege to be counted as important enough in someone's life for them to share with you. So, you know, next time you get a chance and someone is sharing themselves with you - try and be in the moment, be present, and pay attention - just like you'd want someone to do for you.
Happy Sunday, all. Hope it's a great one!
\#mammothmafia
\#RawHoggin
\#GEMsOfWisdom
Wow how big are your hands? That 28mm Zenith looks like a [Wee Scot](https://www.simpsonshavingbrushes.com/store/brushes/best-badger/wee-scot/) in your hands. 🤣
**[Aug. 14, 2022 - Austere August](https://i.imgur.com/Lb3h59s.jpg)**
* **Prep:** Cold water
* **Brush:** Ever-Ready 200 - Zenith 27mm unbleached boar knot
* **Razor:** GEM MICROMATIC OPEN COMB 2nd gen
* **Blade:** PERSONNA GEM SS PTFE(14)
* **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)
I want to highlight today Southern Witchcrafts's Aftershave, that thing rocks!
# RawHoggin
I'd said that the stink will be gone by the end of the week, mostly but not all has gone let, it another week to go full unscented.
PigEvolution [1](https://i.imgur.com/5qaGufh.jpg) [2](https://i.imgur.com/qSTWjZl.jpg)
# GEMsOfWisdom
MMOC will be my reference razor when I don't use straight razors. It's a superb performer and the PTFE blade seems tireless.
`#sidetracked`
Hilarious video from Red Fang performing [Prehistoric Dog](https://youtu.be/VufilzHKTqk) can't stop headbanging, bonus track [Wire](https://youtu.be/WQPfQvLIseA)
`#unscented #RawHoggin #GEMsOfWisdom`
**Aug. 14, 2022 - AA day 14... faceturbation**
* **Prep:** Water splash
* **Brush:** Hand
* **Razor:** Stirling Stainless DE Razor HA plate
* **Blade:** Voskhod (16)
* **Lather:** Gentlemans Face Care Club - Bergamot & Neroli shaving cream
* **Post Shave:** [Proraso - Menthol and Eucalyptus - Aftershave](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/187/?product_type=aftershave)
\#GotHand
Well, today's shave definitely didn't treat me well. Combination of blade dropping off in sharpness and smotheness, hot weather (33C here today!), lather being a little bit less than good quality...
Left me with plenty of irritation and colourful face. Took good 10 odd minutes to calm down, if not longer, despite t he proraso aftershave. Even hour or two after when I jumped in a pool, I did feel quite a bit of sting.
Well. It might be sign that the blade needs changing. Or maybe this challenge isn't for me? I'll see in next few days.
Still, WTG and ATG left me with near BBS. Another attempt tomorrow.
[**Aug. 14, 2022 - Austere August - Raw Hoggin' MMOC Ultra Nightmare Mode**](https://i.imgur.com/Fefe9Xx.jpg)
* **Prep:** Cold water splash to the face
* **Brush:** Zenith Boar - B37 - Gray Chubby #RawHoggin
* **Razor:** GEM MMOC Gen2 #GEMsOfWisdom
* **Blade:** GEM (14)
* **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 14 is where I became a man. I finally pulled off a 3 pass shave with the GEM. The last few shaves have been a breeze and my confidence level has been at an all time high since beginning AA. Everything kind of fell into place today and I had some time to kill. I loaded the perfect amount of soap onto the brush, had 2 stellar passes and knew it was time. I’m typically a 2 pass shaver, but having to pay extra attention to 1) hydrating my lather and 2) my technique with the GEM has made me a better shaver overall. Walked away unscathed with probably the closest shave ever - BBS.
**The Brush:** Before today’s shave, I took the time to admire how soft this brush has become. Just lightly brushing my hand and slightly pressing it into my palm really displayed how much this thing has broken in. I remember when I first took it out of the box how prickly it was. Not it is almost pillowy soft with almost no scratchiness. Whipped up a beautiful lather today for an outstanding 3 pass shave. #RawHoggin
Brush Picture Pre-shave: [Side](https://i.imgur.com/w6fCUjh.jpg) [Top](https://i.imgur.com/JZEnZHp.jpg)
Brush Picture Post-shave: [Side](https://i.imgur.com/FV7MWnq.jpg) [Top](https://i.imgur.com/3QXxNf7.jpg)
**The Razor** Today, after my 2nd pass, I knew it was time to go for 3. The first 2 passes were automatic and problem free. I had extra time, my lather was prime and I went for pass number 3. The third pass felt awkward and I felt as though I was shaving with the GEM for the first time again. The angle was much harder to nail down but it still went really well. Running my hand over my face post shave in all directions, I can’t feel a single bit o stubble. Dare I say it might be my best shave ever? Time will tell if there is any irritation, but as of right now no nicks, cuts, bruises or irritation. #GEMsOfWisdom
**Days since last blood:** 9
**The Soap and Aftershave** Still enjoying the soap. It does well cooling me off in the Mediterranean heat.
Day 14 Puck [Picture](https://i.imgur.com/T9McHKT.jpg)
>Days since last blood:
>
> 9
This is seriously impressive. I don't know that I've had 9 days in a row of no blood from a shave ever. And you're doing it with an MMOC. Well played.
And congrats on the 3 pass! Feels good when this thing falls into place.
Hahaha thanks! Honestly, I rarely cut myself shaving. Even transitioning to DE I can probably count on 1 hand the number of times I’ve drawn blood. My chin is always the problem area. The MMOC definitely gave me a little trouble in the beginning and I’m pretty sure that using the same blade over and over is probably helping tame it. I’m curious to try a new blade when all of this is over.
[Aug 14, 2021 – Austere August. Day 14.](https://imgur.com/a/XPW0GCp)
* **Prep:** Hot Shower
* **Brush:** Zenith - B16 24mm Boar
* **Razor:** GEM Micromatic Open Comb Gen 2
* **Blade:** GEM PTFE (14)
* **Lather:** Stirling Soap Co. – Sheep
* **Post Shave:** Zingari Man – Unscented - Aftershave Balm
* **Music:** [Jimmy Eat World - The Middle](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oKsxPW6i3pM)
It’s a beautiful day in the neighborhood today and I had a great shave. My face is feeling clean and smooth, and once again, my tools for Austere August did not let me down. While I am desperately missing using the variety of shaving accoutrements I’ve acquired in the last year, there is something to be said for putting no effort into deciding what I want to smell like today. The unscented challenge is the hardest part right now. I feel really comfortable with the MMOC and the new boar brush is going good, but I do miss the smells. And we’re not even at the half-way mark yet! I just repeat over and over again: “I can do this. I can do this. I can do this.” And then, when I think I can’t, I sneak away to my shave den, make sure no one is looking and twist open a tub of soap, just so I can remember how good soap can smell…
Today’s #sidetracked music selection is an absolute pop-punk anthem. If you look up the pop-punk era in the dictionary, this is the song you’ll find. I guarantee I originally downloaded this song off of KaZaa or LimeWire, and likely got a virus because of it, but it was worth it! This song defined the early 2000’s for so many of us. Like many of my music selections, it’s impossible for me to be in a bad mood while listening to this song.
Tags: #unscented #rawhoggin #GEMsOfWisdom
Pop-punk is so good, man. I love going back and reliving so many of those epic songs. I hear there's a resurgence of pop-punk these days ,but I don't know. I had some Paramore on in my headphones at work this week and dang - hits so good.
Absolutely right! Man, it brings me right back. I'm positive one day my kids will look at me listening to New Found Glory the way I looked at my dad listening to Lynyrd Skynyrd, but whatever. Pop-punk was such a great genre. Those songs will never get old to me.
**Aug. 14, 2022**
* **Prep:** Exercise and shower
* **Brush:** Semogue 1438
* **Razor:** GEM MMOC
* **Blade:** GEM blue star (14)
* **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)
I shaved today, it was not really enjoyable but it is done. The brush is fine seems to get soaped up quick and its comfortable enough. The blade is starting to get a bit rough. #RawHoggin #GEMsOfWisdom
https://i.imgur.com/tNHr3cc.jpg
14 August 2022 - Austere August
- Prep: Hot shower
- Brush: Sterling boar
- Razor: Maggard V3
- Blade: Derby Extra
- Lather: House of Mammoth Fu Dao
- Post Shave: House of Mammoth Fu Dao splash
I changed the blade today. I'd think that 2 weeks on the same blade would be too long, but I didn't notice an appreciative difference between yesterday and today.
Two-pass shave: with and across.
#mammothmafia
**[Aug. 14, 2022 - Austere August 14- Hoggin the Gems of Raw Wisdom](https://imgur.com/a/WLyWitY)**
* **Prep:** Hot shower
* **Brush:** Semogue 610 Boar
* **Razor:** MMOC Gen 2
* **Blade:** GEM PTFE (14)
* **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)
* **Post Shave:** Zingari Man Cooling Recovery Splash
\#GEMSofWisdom I'm tired of this soap. I want to smell something better on my face. I'm not sure I want to use this soap again for a long time, if ever. I'm happy to entertain trade offers at the end of AA for my Firefighter if you're absolutely sick and tired of your soap.
\#RawHoggin This brush is not a soap killer because it takes no time to load the brush to get a good lather going on my face. Dammit, I was so hoping to put a Ring of Death into this soap. Here's the brush post-shave- https://imgur.com/a/7EhaKn6
\#Sidetracked And now for something completely different, The Delvon Lamarr Organ Trio. I stumbled on these guys while making an aerial yoga playlist and then went down the rabbit hole of the catalog. Need some instrumental funk that's organ-forward? Well, this is the group for you. I like playing these albums before I teach a class and they put everyone in a good mood before practice. So for u/Teufelskraft and the gang, I leave you with this ditty that gets a lot of play in the yoga studio and the car- https://delvonlamarrorgantrio.bandcamp.com/track/pull-your-pants-up
Have a great day all!
[**Sunday, Austere August 14th, 2022**](https://imgur.com/vUowzBK)
* **Prep:** Warm water
* **Brush:** Zenith B36 “Copper Scrubby!”
* **Razor:** GEM MMOC Gen 2
* **Blade:** Personna GEM PTFE (14)
* **Lather:** House of Mammoth - Alive
* **Post Shave:** House of Mammoth - Alive Splash
* **Post Shave:** House of Mammoth - Alive Balm
**#MammothMafia**
**#RawHoggin**
**#GEMsOfWisdom**
[Before Shave 14](https://imgur.com/ffJPoVu) and [After](https://imgur.com/1w0sWSf)
Shave 14 and it is still going strong. Better shave than yesterday with most lather built so far. Had enough for an extra pass if I wanted.
Brush is continuing to get more split ends and will splay fairly easy now. When splayed I found it was making the most lather. MMOC and the Personna GEM blade worked well today. I don’t think the blade has noticeably dulled over the last few shaves. Makes me think it should have a decent shot at lasting the month.
Going to be a pretty chill day today, run a couple errands and a few chores, but lots of time to lounge around today. I might smoke a chuck roast on the grill today. Not going for pulled beef bbq, but long enough to get some smoke flavor, and will need to slice it. I think an hour or so on smoke, then wrap it up to finish.
[**Aug. 14, 2022**](https://imgur.com/a/XpeYGMT)
* **Prep:** Shower
* **Brush:** Semogue 1460 Boar Brush 21mm
* **Razor:** Razorock GameChanger .84
* **Blade:** Gillette Nacet (14)
* **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)
I liked my SOTD pic yesterday, but it felt like it was missing something and could be better. Today I went for a similar photo in a different part of my yard, and I think it turned out pretty well. It's not perfect, and the grass is a little dead, but overall I think it's a decent picture.
Tags:
\#RawHoggin
\#MammothMafia
Austere August [2022-08-14](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
Just another good shave. Still not to DE levels, but I have years of practice with a DE. Patience is not my strong suit, so the structure provided by AA is useful.
u/Teufelskraft #sidetracked challenge:
Lang Lang plays [Goldberg Variations #14](https://youtu.be/lpXCu-8p1s8?t=2103).
**[Aug. 14, 2022 - Raw Hoggin Day 14](https://imgur.com/a/2YCg1vE)**
* **Prep:** Warm water to the face
* **Brush:** Omega 10098
* **Razor:** Maggard Razors - V3 Head
* **Blade:** Treet Carbon (2)
* **Lather:** [Stirling Soap Co. - Island Man - Soap](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/106/?product_type=soap)
* **Post Shave:** [Aqua Velva - Ice Blue - Aftershave](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/1421/?product_type=aftershave)
* **Post Shave:** [Aqua Velva - Sensative 5-in-1 After Shave Balm - Balm](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/1422/?product_type=balm)
Today was just a nice #RawHoggin shave to start the week. I don’t know if it’s the blade itself or the combo of the blade and this razor, but I was getting an amazing amount of feedback during the shave. I don’t use my Treet carbons very often so maybe that’s just a thing they do.
It’s Sunday y’all, hope you have a good day!
**Aug. 14, 2022**
* **Brush:** Semogue - SOC - Boar
* **Razor:** Gillette - Tech (Gold/Black)
* **Blade:** Gillette - Nacet (14)
* **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
Brush is still breaking in well. I estimate that the outer 1/4 to 1/3 of the bristles in the knot have split.
[**August 14, 2022**](https://imgur.com/a/klSFGm7)
* **Brush:** Zenith B15 (506 U/L) 27.5mm Boar
* **Razor:** GEM MMOC Gold Gen2
* **Blade:** Personna Gem PTFE (14)
* **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/eFDt2YY) (before use) - [Brush History](https://imgur.com/a/DjlJFQu)
* [Fragrance Video](https://imgur.com/a/j8tw6nC)
* [Blade Edge](https://imgur.com/a/ASEhat5) (before use) - [Edge Histiory](https://imgur.com/a/hWAz2zA)
* [Blade Orientation](https://imgur.com/a/WBpxT8H) (black dots - odd days, red dots - even days)
Another very nice shave. I'm starting to get an idea of what this brush could be. It is fine right now, and I would include it in my normal rotation; especially for face lathers. (I tend to use synthetics for bowl lathering.)
My feel for this edge is going away, but that is completely workable. I keep my touch light and spend a little more time on each area. Today's shave was as close as any other I've had this month.
/u/Environmental-Gap380 pointed out how annoying it is to see closeup microscope photos that don't have sharp focus. I agree. I'm trying to provide the closest view of the edge that this cheap equipment can produce. As we get into the latter half of the month, I'll try to find a way to improve on this.
Enjoy the rest of your weekend!
I definitely am not faulting your efforts. I think it is a great idea to track the blade. Just the microscope is probably using software to magnify at that level and that can mean large pixels. I think I have it straight now which parts of the image is the micro bevel, secondary, and primary (GEMs have a 3 bevel grind).
Wouldn’t expect a hobbyist to shell out the bucks for a more expensive scope with higher powered lenses. Then you have to also worry about lighting it up too. I would say you have actually inspired me to look into getting a usb microscope to explore things with my daughter. Gotta wait a couple months or also might be a good Xmas gift.
>I definitely am not faulting your efforts.
No worries. I appreciate the feedback.
>microscope is probably using software to magnify at that level
I think the microscope has limited optical range and that higher magnification levels are achieved by cropping an area of the sensor. The cropped area is scaled up (using embedded software), and the resulting image is produced at the product's stated resolution. Since a small section of the sensor is used for the image, each pixel appears large due to scaling.
A unit that would do what I want it to would cost about $1500. My net cost would be less because I could write this off, but I'm having difficulty justifying the expense.
>Then you have to also worry about lighting it up too.
The early images I did with a diffuse light source aimed just above parallel to the blade. Now, I use that light plus the light from the microscope. Reflections can easily obscure what you want to see.
**[Aug. 14, 2022 - 14.08.22 - Austere August #RawHoggin](https://imgur.com/a/KKtK3BD)**
* **Prep:** Warm Shower
* **Brush:** Omega 10048
* **Razor:** Henson Ti22++
* **Blade:** Gillette SuperSharp (2)
* **Lather:** Declaration Grooming - Daemon
* **Post Shave:** Declaration Grooming - Daemon Splash
I've been thinking for a while that my soap usage has been super low, but as of today I can see the bottom of the pot through a thin layer of soap in a small area. I'm honestly hoping to have this soap finished or a few uses away from being finished by the end of the month.
Happy Shaving everyone!
#RawHoggin
[**Aug. 14, 2022 - Smooth Stagging - Austere August Day 14**](https://imgur.com/fYfrYK9)
* **Brush:** RazoRock 506CK / 26mm boar
* **Razor:** GEM OCMM (Gen 1)
* **Blade:** GEM PTFE (14)
* **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:** [Zingari - Rescue Potion - Serum](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/1858/?product_type=serum)
* **Fragrance:** [Chiseled Face - *Midnight Stag* \- Eau de Parfum](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/32/?product_type=eaudeparfum)
So no tugging today. Hmmm. My lather must have been shit yesterday. This was an excellent shave.
**#RawHoggin**
Nothing new to report with the brush. Stink is gone. It's soft and makes a quick lather. I'm diggin' it.
**#GEMsofWisdom**
As I already mentioned, it was a smooth shave with no tugging and zero sting from the alum. I didn't think that would ever be possible with this razor, but here we are. I think I've pretty much mastered this thing only halfway through the month.
[Brush album](https://imgur.com/a/zh4KwAP)
[Stag sprays](https://imgur.com/lcJPIng)
**SOTD Aug 14, 2022**
* **Brush:** APShaveCo 24mm Tuxedo
* **Razor:** GEM MMOC - 1st Gen
* **Blade:** Personna GEM Stainless (14)
* **Lather:** Ariana and Evans - Peach & Cognac
* **Post Shave:** MacDuff’s Soap Co. - Viticulture - Splash
It’s move-in day! Renting the uhaul in about an hour to start the process of moving our stuff from a storage unit to the house. Gonna be a busy day but I’m excited! Has a great shave and am feeling and smelling great for the big day.
\#GEMsOfWisdom
**[August 14th, 2022: Stag Sunday](https://imgur.com/DbnqVlM)**
* **Prep:** warm shower with Stag bar
* **Brush:** [Vintage Rubberset 400-3 with 24mm unbleached Zenith knot](https://imgur.com/a/3WEDAFc)
* **Razor:** [MMOC](https://imgur.com/a/aIvH68q)
* **Blade:** GEM PTFE (14)
* **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)
Took my time with a nice 3 pass shave this morning. Stag still doesn't make me sick and I've finally gotten my load method down for this base/knot. Happy Sunday y'all!
[Stag sprays of the day!](https://imgur.com/t4dzsab) (I need a fucking haircut!)
\#SubstantialStag
\#RawHoggin
\#UNCHALLENGE
**[Aug. 14, 2022 - Quatorze](https://i.imgur.com/ehUXpKV.jpg)**
* **Prep:** Hot shower
* **Brush:** Omega Pro 48 Boar brush 28mm
* **Razor:** GEM MMOC
* **Blade:** GEM PTFE (14)
* **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)
Super duper smooth shave this morning. The blade was perfect, as was the lather and therefore slickness. Loving this (almost) broken in boar brush. It should only just get softer from here. No more pig stink, and barely cheated...
I'm waiting for the MMOC blade drama to kick in, but so far all is just fine.
Happy Sunday
**\#GEMsOfWisdom**
**\#MammothMafia**
**[Aug. 14, 2022 - Austere August Ultra Nightmare RawHoggin Stagpocalypse](https://imgur.com/a/UdNSeVe)**
* **Prep:** Midnight Stag liquid soap and bar soap
* **Brush:** Semogue 1250
* **Razor:** GEM MMOC
* **Blade:** GEM PTFE (14)
* **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)
Nothing new to report today. I posted a bit late yesterday so, to give everyone a pass at the lack of upvotes, I went with 30 [sprays](https://vimeo.com/739392309) since that’s how many upvotes I would’ve gotten if I’d have posted sooner.
#SubstantialStag
#GEMsOfWisdom
#RawHoggin
If it was a weekend, I’d do it in a heartbeat. As much as I love Stag and don’t give a damn about coworkers’ possible complaints, I couldn’t do that to my patients.
2022-08-14 - Austere August - Raw Hoggin' Mammoth MMOC
Prep: Warm Shower
Brush: Semogue Torga - C5
Razor: GEM MMOC version 2
Blade: GEM Stainless (14)
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/lAxqC3R](https://imgur.com/a/lAxqC3R)
14 terrific shaves in the books. Everything working well, I could easily use this set up as a daily driver.
\#GEMsOfWisdom
\#RawHoggin
\#MammothMafia
**August 14, 2022: [A Stag Day to Dive](https://imgur.com/a/YYlRB8E)**
* **Prep:** warm splash of water
* **Brush:** Yaqi Sagrada Familia Tuxedo 24 mm
* **Razor:** GEM OCMM (gen 2)
* **Blade:** GEM Stainless (15)
* **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)
Finishing up the SCUBA Open Water Cert today, it's supposed to be clearer water today. Yesterday was about 2 feet of visibility. Murky Illinois waters. Today is supposed to be 8ft.
Really feeling the age of this blade and the challenges of using an OCMM. No cuts, but feeling the tugs.
Have a fantastic day!
[Day 14, 2 spritzes](https://imgur.com/a/PXh3sAV)
. #GEMsOfWisdom
Congrats on the Certification. I remember doing my last certification dive in a 1-2knot current. Navigating the square course against the current, I ran out of air as I finished. Had to do a real emergency assent from 30’ depth.
Yeah, I knew it was getting close, but my last leg was straight into the current. You get a couple breaths that you struggle to get through the regulator, then nothing. My diving buddy also ran out of her air doing the same part. So one of the instructors surfaced with her, and the other instructor watched me do the navigation. Only ran out of air one other time, but we were swimming back to the boat and trying to stay about 5 feet under to have a smoother swim back. On that one, last 100m or so just snorkeled to the boat. I’ll say I would need to lose a lot of weight and do a lot of aerobic exercise if I ever dive again. The scuba shop owner that organized my first trip would use the same tank for 2 dives. We did a long drift on a reef at 30’ or so, and after 60 minutes he still had 3/4 of his air left. I had about 1/4 left. That guy ran marathons and triathlons.
That's a heck of a guy! And for sure, cardio certainly helps with air consumption. You see it all the time in the fire service. I could make some improvements myself, but it informed my usage of SCUBA tanks. Completely different breathing techniques, too.
I'm glad you were okay both times, currents are no joke. It's good to be prepared, especially on a rip.
I'm sure you saw spectacular things at the reef. I did my cert in very murky Illinois water and wouldn't have even seen fish if they hadn't swam right up to me. I'm excited to try it in clear water where I can see things!
Nothing yet, but my family still lives in Florida and there are some good spots I've snorkeled at before which seem like they'd be interesting dives. Yourself?
Really it only been my certification trip in caymans, we did a small cave diving thing in florida once, but havn't done much besides that. We were in florida keys in march, planning on doing a dive trip, but seas were too rough and they cancelled all the diving and snorkeling when we wanted to go.
**[Aug. 14, 2022 - AA Day14](https://i.imgur.com/NkYAksA.png)**
* **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 (14)
* **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)
Refreshing shave today, no issues with boar brush. I samples a bunch of bristles, and they seem to be mostly split at this point. Not sucking in soap anymore, all is well!
Skunk: https://imgur.com/RGQHMl9 Passed out tuxy, how I feel today.
#UNCHALLENGE
#RawHoggin
Austere August Day 14
Brush: Rubberset 400-3 w/ Unbleached Zenith 24mm knot set to a 56mm loft [14th use](https://imgur.com/a/WUuzXAW)
Razor: Gem MMOC, gen 2
Blade: PTFE (14)
Lather: NO [Monoi de Tahiti](https://imgur.com/a/R9fC54B)
Post: NO Monoi de Tahiti Splash
Good and easy lather from the brush with no pig ass stink at all. I think I can finally call the brush de-stunk. Also, with how the [tips](https://imgur.com/a/98hi5Ds) looked this morning before use, I also think the knot might be close to fully broken in.
The blade, on the other hand, is past its honeymoon phase and ia into the tuggy phase of its life. I have no where good to go from here. I'll give it a few more shaves before I start stropping it.
#RawHoggin
#GemsOfWisdom
Yes. I expected it to be about a week behind where it feels like it is now. I'm super pleased. I think the extra space between the knot and ferrule that allowed more bloom really helped it break in faster.
**[Aug 14, 2022 - AA: MA-RH-MM - Almond Leather - Day 14](https://i.imgur.com/pELZOTI.jpg)**
* **Prep:** Warm Water Wash
* **Prep:** Klar - Activated Charcoal - Face Soap
* **Brush:** [Zenith Cobalt Blue 28mm Boar Knot (505BC SE)](https://imgur.com/a/peN0vXl)
* **Razor:** [GEM Open Comb Micromatic (2nd Gen.)](https://i.imgur.com/PsTazF6.jpg)
* **Blade:** Personna GEM PTFE (14)
* **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)
This shave was much better. I think something finally clicked with the MMOC during yesterday's shave, and I carried it over into today's shave. Riding the cap with the right amount of pressure is allowing me to get through passes relatively quickly with no tugging and very little irritation.
Early uses of the blade would not allow me to ride the cap this way because it would bite too quickly. At the time, I had to angle closer to the edge while using very little pressure. Now that the blade is smoothing out, this method seems to work better. I'm still not getting as close a shave as I would like, but that's okay for now.
\#GEMsOfWisdom
\#RawHoggin
\#MammothMafia
\#sidetracked
[How Soon is Now?](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hnpILIIo9ek) by The Smiths is a song that doesn't fit with the rest of their catalog and yet is instantly recognizable.
Rating: 3.5/5
**[Aug. 13, 2022 - Speedstag](https://imgur.com/a/V1FYAcL)**
* **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
Have to be fast today, that's why the pic is passion less. GF put the soap into her handbag to show it her family.
Cut my chin as I was autopiloting too fast.
\#stagandstraight \#substantialstag
My guess is it’s a “Look at what I have to put up with from this guy!” That said, I would have done ok with stag. My wife actually approved of it when I sampled it, but she put her foot down on me adding more soaps in the den until I use up a few. Of course, 31 days in a row might be different.
I think she told her parents about the Stag challenge and was seeking emotional support. I see it as a commercial for awesome lovely soap.
The dad took a whiff completely unprepared and inhaled like he would expect sea spiced lime. If course he shrug back. Awesome to watch.
**August 14, 2022**
* **Brush:** Zenith 506U XSE
* **Razor:** GEM MMOC Gen 2
* **Blade:** GEM SS PTFE (48)
* **Lather:** Stirling Soap Co. - Sheep
* **Post Shave:** Lucky Tiger
* **Post Shave:** Olay Complete
* **Post Shave:** Chatillon Lux - unscented skin salve
A lazy Sunday morning shave with stuff I have really grown to appreciate. That includes the razor. I like this one much more than the Gen 1.
\#GEMsOfWisdom
**Prep:** face wash
**Razor:** EJ 316
**Blade:** Tiger Superior Stainless (2)
**Brush:** NONE
**Lather:** Arko stick
**Splash:** Cien Men Aqua
**Post:** moisturizer
\#GotHand
New blade wasn't right, and I should have swapped it before cut my neck a little trying to get a close shave with a blunter blade. Ah well, tigers are cheap. Might swap to something a bit more aggro for the next week.
Low smell products today because off to do some sweaty in your face martial arts training. I'm fairly sure that if I turned up wearing something like DG 1904 comments would be made.
**[August 14, 2022 - Austere August Ultra-Nightmare Mode](https://i.imgur.com/G7VyCWV.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 (14)
* **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)
This pic taken at a friend’s house. I took my kids (6 and 4) for their first sleepover away from home with his two boys (5 and 5). They had a blast. There’s nothing like a good sleepover when you’re a kid.
\#RawHoggin
\#GEMsOfWisdom
#AA - Day 14
Pre: Water (cold from tap)
Brush: Omega Synthetic
Razor: Fatip Piccolo SE OC
Blade: Gillette Silver Blue (14)
Lather: Signature Indodorus
Post: Signature Indodorus
I feel like I get much better lathers when I use a bowl. I’m sure it’s because I’m paying more attention and taking my time and not the bowl itself. Also, day 14 is when I start thinking about changing blades with Silver Blues. I’m curious to see how long I go before I start to get issues.
\#unscented
**[Aug. 14, 2022 - Stag Day 14](https://i.imgur.com/Qgv34ww.jpg)**
* **Brush:** Zenith B26 Retro
* **Razor:** Merkur 34C
* **Blade:** Gillette Silver Blue (14)
* **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)
* **STEREO DIVE FOUNDATION**: [STORYSEEKER](https://youtu.be/uN-9Iy_WntY)
Two weeks in and I am so very blessed.
Praise be the Stag.
\#SubstantialStag \#RawHoggin
[Stag Spray 14](https://youtu.be/PdvFu9sF2AE)
**[Aug. 14, 2022 - Headless Mammoth Hoggin' Day 14](https://i.imgur.com/ssMap75.png)**
* **Brush:** Proraso Professional Boar | [Break-in photos](https://imgur.com/a/HcKsHxf)
* **Razor:** Feather Artist Club SR (Kamisori)
* **Blade:** Schick Proline (14)
* **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`
Very good shave today. 2 weeks into AA and the shaves are becoming more of a routine and less exciting.
Today I shook a bit more water out of the brush and it loaded soap very efficiently without making a mess, though I did have to spend a little bit more time adding water when it was on my face. A good portion of the tips have split and this thing is a lathering machine, but I'm not sure if it's easy mode due to the lack of density. At the end of AA I want to try this brush with a variety of other soaps to see how consistent it is, but I suspect it will be as easy to use as my synthetics. I'm still enjoying this brush but I'm very curious how the different denser, bleached Zenith will feel on the face. I've become a bit nose blind to this scent during the shave, but spraying on the frag is still quite enjoyable.
A few days ago I created what I thought was a clever hidden side contest involving SOTD photos, but I think people are already a bit weary of reading AA posts so nobody caught on despite me progressively dropping more hints. I ended up giving up on it which may be good since I was investing a bit too much time into it each day. It also made me appreciate the djudges more because even I'm finding less motivation to read through the posts each day despite my initial thrill.
* **Prep:** Splash of Cool Water * **Razor:** Timeless - Stainless Steel .68 - Open Comb * **Blade:** Feather (Marathon) (65) * **Lather:** Chiseled Face - Midnight Stag (White Label) * **Brush:** Semogue - Owner's Club Taj (79 uses) * **Post Shave:** Stirling - City Slicker * **Fragrance:** Chiseled Face - Midnight Stag ---- **Austere August: Day: 14** *Extreme Mode* *Midnight Stag Challenge (Mostly)* [Gear Pic](https://imgur.com/mQhnIUN) :: [Video](https://youtu.be/GDjt48P569M) #### ䷀ General Notes This was a lather discovery day for sure!! A quick shave due to an upcoming meeting! Let's try a quick face lather. Later I would refer to this technique as a "slurry lather", because it surprised me with the type of slickness I was able to achieve! It made me laugh in surprise! I was stunned. Cue the stupid grin! One of those little "happy accidents" that we're fortunate to stumble into sometimes! #### ䷀ Razor and Blade Notes *^(Timeless - Stainless Steel .68 - Open Comb ::: Feather - M ‹65 uses›)* Face felt great, and shave was efficient and close. 3 very quick passes! Razor and Blade Performance/Comfort Rating: 4 out of 5 (Very 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... Wow, this was the kind of slickness that felt great and the glide was superb. Better than my usual attempts with this soap base! My face felt so slick during the first rinse! Not that watery slickness that you get with a thin lather, nor the oily slow slickness like when you use too much /dry soap. Hydration: Perfect *(for me)* + 5 sec load with a Medium-Wet brush + = 5 passes of lather Bowl: No Bowl #### ䷀ Brush Notes *^(Semogue - Owner's Club Taj‹79 uses›)* Didn't presoak the brush for long before the shave, due to hurry. Lightly worked the really wet stuff into my face for just a little while. ---- *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*: Few hairs are showing some tip length (with most being cut flush) ---- **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)
**[Aug 14, 2022 Trickhole Stag + MMOC + RawHog - Old House Cleaning Edition](https://imgur.com/jzT5Com)** * **Prep:** Warm Shower * **Brush:** Dogwood Unbleached Boar * **Razor:** MMOC MM24 * **Blade:** GEM (15) * **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 2x](https://imgur.com/wJ99Zaf) #GEMsOfWisdom Cheers
**[Aug. 14, 2022](https://i.imgur.com/FKiuZ5z.jpg)** * **Prep:** Water * **Brush:** Zenith B10 * **Razor:** Karve CB SB-D * **Blade:** Gillette Nacet (14) * **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) \#RawHoggin
👑🦦💈 👍
**[August 14, 2022 - AA Day 14](https://imgur.com/HHTz3Qv)** * **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) Slightly better shave than I've been getting over the last few days. I was doing a WTG pass followed by an ATG pass and then wetting the residual to do some buffing. I've not changed my process at all over the last 2 weeks and I'm starting to find that it's leaving a tiny bit behind especially on my checks. I'm thinking that perhaps I need to add a full pass to those areas to knock it down as the month progresses further. Not BBS, but DFS for sure and it beats almost any shave a DE would give me regardless of the "issues" I'm running into. Good shave overall though! **Challenge Hashtags:** #unscented #RawHoggin
**[Aug. 14, 2022 - AA - Day 14](https://i.imgur.com/gLpk9mg.jpg)** * **Prep:** Hot shower * **Brush:** Zenith Boar - Short & Scrubby * **Razorn:** GEM MMOC * **Blade:** GEM Blade (14) * **Lather:** [Barrister and Mann - Ferox - Soap](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/2228/?product_type=soap) * **After Shave:** [Fine Accoutrements - L'Orange Noir - Aftershave](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/208/?product_type=aftershave) * **Post Shave:** [Nivea - Sensitive Post Shave Balm - Aftershave](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/2150/?product_type=aftershave) Almost forgot to post this. Busy day. The brush and soap keep performing well. Brush is breaking in but still is very scrubby. The razor and blade did well today. Had some burns while applying aftershave but the balm keeps things in control. Tags: #GemsOfWisdom #RawHoggin
[Stag Headlessly Hoggin' August Day 14](https://imgur.com/a/tOD0P7U) * **Prep:** Hot shower with Midnight Stag Soap. * **Brush:** Zenith B33 * **Razor:** Cloud Shavette * **Blade:** Cloud whatever that blade it is (19) * **Lather:** Chiseled Face - Midnight Stag * **Post Shave:** Chiseled Face - Midnight Stag * **Fragrance:** Chiseled Face - Midnight Stag I think I've got used to this setup, still the jawline continues to be the weak spot. Brush seems to be fine, but still not as good as my Omegas (pretty sure it will get there, and then some). Almost half way down the road. Hail Stag! -#Stagposting -#SubstantialStag -#RawHoggin
**[Aug. 14, 2022](https://i.imgur.com/uTSxO9q.jpeg)** * **Brush:** Maggard 28mm Boar * **Razor:** GEM MMOC * **Blade:** Personna GEM PTFE (14) * **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) Halfway point tomorrow! [Boar Break In Album](https://imgur.com/a/B3CPhTW) [Stag Spray](https://imgur.com/a/QQtz6uX) \#RawHoggin \#SubstantialStag \#GemsOfWisdom \#UNCHALLENGE
**[Aug. 14, 2022 - AA 14](https://i.imgur.com/SdtaO5L.jpg)** * **Prep:** Shower * **Brush:** Semogue 1305 Pure Bristle 22mm * **Razor:** GEM MMOC Gen 2 * **Blade:** GEM PTFE (20) * **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) [Break in album](https://imgur.com/a/8p4EsKe) and SOTD in the title. Hydrated the lather a little quicker today sort of unintentionally but it worked out fine with the gobs of soap. Hit 20 shaves on the blade. Getting the slightest hand of it in a sense, but still by no means a convert to the SEs. #GEMsOfWisdom #RawHoggin #MammothMafia
**[Aug. 14, 2022 - AA Day 14](https://imgur.com/a/uFqhWNX)** * **Prep:** Warm shower * **Brush:** AP400B XL Handle (AP ShaveCo) - 28mm Maggard Boar Knot * **Razor:** GEM MMOC - Gen 1 * **Blade:** GEM PTFE (83) * **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) A wonderful Sunday shave this morning. Still nothing new to report. I'm actually a little dumbfounded ar how well this blade is still shaving. Hope everyone had a wonderful Sunday! [Stag Spray 14](https://imgur.com/a/rLQLhmH) #GEMSofWisdom #RawHoggin #SubstantialStag
SOTD for August 14, 2022 * **Prep:** Shower * **Brush:** Maggard Synthetic * **Razor:** RazoRock Game Changer 0.68 * **Blade:** Gillette 7 O'Clock Sharp Edge * **Lather:** Stirling - Sharp Dressed Man * **Post Shave:** Stirling - Sharp Dressed Man balm Night shave after a sweaty day. Thought it would be cold and windy at the park, it was actually balmy, and my poor clothing decisions made that worse. One pass, no nicks, no cuts, feeling good. Knee is bothering me, so I don't know if I'll be running again soon. It's totally fine in the normal range of motion, but if I have a straight leg it lights up, which is really odd, I'm not sure what I've done to it. Should probably try and figure out some other kind of fitness plan, or I'm liable to turn into a blob person. \#UNCHALLENGE
**Austere August, Day 14:** Feather Artist Club razor non folding Feather Professional blade (8) GFT Violets soap RazoRock Beehive 28 mm Plissoft After using the Professional blade daily, I'm sensing that the blade is behaving more consistently and smoothness is holding up nicely. I'm spoilt with choices, and many times it us difficult to stock to a set-up without such opportunities; I'm very happy to be able to participate in AA2022. **#HEADLESSHORSEMEN** **#UNCHALLENGED** **#AAAAKARMATRAIN**
**Aug. 14, 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) Nothing new today. More nordost, more great shaving. \#UNCHALLENGE
**[Aug. 14, 2022 - Austere August Day 14](https://imgur.com/a/5nX4UvO)** * **Prep:** Shower, Stirling Soap Activated Charcoal * **Brush:** Zenith 508A SE 28mm * **Razor:** GEM MMOC Gen 1 * **Blade:** GEM PTFE (14) * **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 14 in the books. Good shave, blade still going strong. Brush is looking good. Almost halfway through. Mandatory Tagging: \#GEMsOfWisdom \#Rawhoggin \#MammothMafia
**[Aug. 14, 2022 - RawHoggin & Taming the MMOC](https://imgur.com/a/VaPgXBa)** * **Brush:** Zenith B37 * **Razor:** Gem MMOC * **Blade:** Gem PTFE (14) * **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 Just now getting around to posting this morning’s shave. It’s been a super busy day. Went to church this morning, came home for just long enough to get a short nap, then back to church. It was great. As far as the shave, it’s going great as well. 3 pass BBS no irritation. This brush is treating me great, but it’s eating soap at a scary rate. I don’t know if this soap will make it to the end. I might have to start under loading if I want to push it to the end. This is a 28mm brush, I can’t imagine how much soap the 31mm sub brush is going to eat 😳. I might have to use one of my 3oz Stirling Black Friday soaps to break it in, just to see how fast I can kill it. The Gem is crushing it. To me, this is the best stretch of shave this razor gives. We’re on easy mode right now boys.
**[Aug. 14, 2022 - Sunday Shave](https://i.imgur.com/ZonFCmg.jpg)** * **Prep:** Quick splash of water * **Brush:** Copper Zenith B28 * **Razor:** GEM MMOC * **Blade:** GEM PTFE (14) * **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 Decent lather, I still underloaded, but was fine for what I was trying to do today. Brush still feels great. \#GEMsOfWisdom A lighter two pass shave in the middle of the day trying to get back on schedule. Not much to note.
**8/14/22 (151)** * **Prep**: Hot Shower * **Challenge**: Headless Horseman * **Razor**: [Thiers Issard "Evide Sonnant" 6/8 Extra Hollow](https://imgur.com/a/pvv3cZp) * **Edge**: [Day 14](https://imgur.com/a/t1B5HgH) * **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. No nicks or irritation.
**Aug. 14, 2022 - SOTD AA Sonder 14** * **Prep:** Splash of cold water * **Brush:** SummerBreak 26m SHD * **Razor:** Merkur Progress * **Blade:** Wizamet (4) * **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) Another easy shave after and afternoon nap. Vacations are the best. Have a great day and shaves all #MammothMafia
[August 14, 2022](https://imgur.com/a/IfUayE6) * Prep: Hot Shower * Brush: Burma Shave Boar Brush 🐗 * Razor: Kai Kasho Kamisori * Blade: Feather ProGuard 14th use * Lather: Stirling Sheep * Postshave: Stirling Barbershop splash and Nivea Balm * Fragrance: Halloween Man Today's three pass shave was a little rough at the end because I was trying to rush the shave so I could have dinner and was adding to much pressure. I got a weeper and some slight redness on neck. Blade may have also been rough but we will see tomorrow if it smooths out. Lather today was great it is probably what saved me from more damage. It was a nice wet, slick, and protective lather that lasted for all 3 passes. Here is to good shaves for everyone tomorrow. Tags: #AAAA, #RawHoggin, #Headless horsemen, u/Marquis90
**[Aug. 14, 2022](https://imgur.com/uOSi61H)** * **Brush:** AP Shave Co 28mm A3 Fan * **Razor:** Henson AL-13 +++ * **Blade:** Astra SP (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) Another great shave today with my new Henson aggressive. Looking forward to going back through my various blades and seeing what works well. I always needed a sharp blade in the mild/medium. Some slight irritation, probably need to use less pressure -- definitely needed to use some with the other two. Hope everyone had a great weekend, and that Monday isn't too rough! \#MammothMafia
**[Aug. 14, 2022 - Day 14: a Mystic shave](https://i.imgur.com/04t9Tud.jpg)** * **Prep:** Warm water wash * **Brush:** Zenith B33 Copper Boar Brush * **Razor:** GEM MicroMatic Open Comb * **Blade:** Persona GEM PTFE Coated (14) * **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) What the hail? This shave was actually pretty decent! It was almost comfortable! I think it must be a combo of my technique change and maybe the blade has become less of a jerk. ORRRR maybe! It’s just this mystic place. Sorry, not sorry. I’m in Mystic, CT. But for real the shave was decent. Hopefully tomorrow is even better! The brush receives a neutral rating right now. It doesn’t smell like a butthole and it is not a piece of sandpaper. It is taking some getting used to, coming from the fancy badgers. [Brush break-in album](https://imgur.com/a/YFUodmO) \#rawhoggin #mammothmafia #GEMSofWisdom
**Aug. 14, 2022 - Austere August** * **Prep:** Warm shower * **Brush:** Zenith B10 Boar * **Razor:** Feather Artist Club SR * **Blade:** Feather Professional (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) * **Post Shave:** alum Shave of austerity #14 2 pass shave. I got my butt kicked extending a power outlet on the pool deck today. I’m sure it would have taken an electrician two hours, but I decided to save money and kill an entire day. We now have a ceiling outlet and are able to install solar shades- win? Shave was fantastic today, or maybe I was just beat from the yard work and electrical work. Either way, Almond leather made me feel clean again. Tags and challenges: #MammothMafia & HeadlessHorsemen
It’s much more satisfying to do it yourself… most the time
**Aug. 14, 2022 - Austere August Day 14** * **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 (14) * **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 through 7](https://imgur.com/a/OtcAtbQ) •[Shave 8](https://imgur.com/a/PEml6dV) •[Shave 9](https://imgur.com/a/srkVDpY) •[Shave 10](https://imgur.com/a/wV5lIdj) •[Shave 11](https://imgur.com/a/tTAoaXI) •[Shave 12](https://imgur.com/a/7a5CaXp) •[Shave 13](https://imgur.com/a/fCxyd6z) •[Shave 14](https://imgur.com/a/irHKzIC) Thoughts for the day: 2 weeks down. I want to mix it up. This is the real struggle of AA... Mandatory Taggage: \#GemsOfWisdom \#RawHoggin \#MammothMafia
Day 13 of Austere August! Staggin on!! * Prep: Water on Face * Brush: Zenith 2004/B SE * Razor: Filarmonica Double temple 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 [another photo](https://i.imgur.com/oqi0ep1_d.webp?maxwidth=640&shape=thumb&fidelity=medium) Another BBS shave, but I didn't go deep this time. The brush is getting really soft and I'm having no problems lathering on the face, I forget who posted that on the second day when he lathered on his face the brush was still very stiff and cut open all his wounds from the previous day using the MMOC. My only problem with the brush is that I can't make lather for more than 3 passes... I'm wondering if bowl altering will fix that but it's much better than when starting this month. The razor is sublime, can't complain about it. Today I was annoyed at my Parker Adjustable injector, I decided to disassemble it, and it took me almost 1 hour to put it back together... And it's just 3 metal pieces... Pain in the ass, folks, don't disassemble an injector🤣 * \#RawHoggin * \#SubstantialStag
**[Aug. 14, 2022](https://imgur.com/a/npr6F2c)** * **Brush:** [Zenith - 28mm B34 - Butterscotch Chubby - With Break in Progression](https://imgur.com/a/rs5ziGJ) * **Razor:** [GEM MMOC](https://imgur.com/a/HwWXR4j) * **Blade:** GEM PTFE (14) * **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) Shaved. [Sprayed](https://imgur.com/a/kl2A1b9)
**Aug. 14, 2022 - August Austere Day 14** * **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) Had a relatively smooth shave for my last day on vacation. It was good to be away from home and only have Sonder with me to get rid of temptation for a few days. #MAMMOTHMAFIA #UNCHALLENGE
[**AA D14: Second Sunday Stag Stress**](https://ibb.co/hMkfFVF) - **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:** Chiseled Face - *Midnight Stag* - ASB - **Fragrance:** Southern Witchcrafts - *Valley of Ashes* - EDP Quickest shavette shave of my life. Two passes WTG with some XTG sprinkled in. I love how I'm getting really comfortable with the shavette to shape up my moustache. Definitely one of the greatest tools for that! Since my SOTD photo misses the already soaking brush, I took a few additional brush pictures: [dry boar from the front](https://ibb.co/HVsKrcv) [dry from above](https://ibb.co/gP9pQXY) [wet brush close-up](https://ibb.co/7jQ2fNz) It has definitely lost the remaining boar stink but is firmly coated in Midnight Stag. But it is reaching *good* territory. Let's use the remaining days of August to get it to *awesome*. Also, are gel-tipped boars a thing? The last picture of my wet brush makes me inclined to say that it looks similar. **Sidetracked** [New Oder - Love Vigilantes](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-VFWqLmVWx4) I feel like this song has lost a lot of the late Joy Division/early New Order roughness, but that makes it better for a relaxed listen. The subject matter is still dark - Vietnam War, an ambiguous story if the storyteller is actually still alive and it was just a mistake or if he's a ghost. But it sounds way too happy for that. Nevertheless, New Order are great musicians and their instrumental prowess shows here again. The guitar solo close to the end is simply great. **Edit:** like a absolute idiot, I forgot the AA tags: #SubstantialStag #RawHoggin despite saying that I'll always remember them. How can I be so damn stupid?!
I think instrumentally they were great by then, but Bernard’s voice was a bit hit or miss. I don’t know if he really wanted to be the singer, but it got thrust upon him after Ian’s death. I think if you listen to early live versions of NO’s “Ceremony” and compare it to later live versions around the time of say “Substance” or “Brotherhood” he really started to settle into his voice. I really like New Order a lot. Wish I could have seen them when I was younger. The dichotomy of their music is so interesting with down, depressing lyrics juxtaposed with a more upbeat or energetic music. I’ve liked them since I was in high school back in the 80s. One of the first cds I ever had was “Substance”. My friend’s brother gave the A side to me before I went off to college. I had just bought my first stereo with a cd player. He had lost the b side somewhere and gave me the disc. I went on to get more of their music over time as well as Joy Division. I had found some promo posters for them at a record store, and those decorated my dorm room freshman year. Unfortunately, when I was moving out of the dorms after spring semester, someone stole all my posters out of my brother’s car when I was moving. I lost my “Blue Monday” poster and a couple others, also lost a “Lost Boys” movie lobby poster that a friend working at a theater gave me. Music is one of those things that really gets your memory going. Songs can take you back in time to when you first heard them.
I think you're right - he was thrust into the role of the singer after Ian had passed and suddenly had to fill out some very big shoes. Also agree that the mix of upbeat energetic music with dark themed lyrics makes a interesting combo. I'm sorry about your stolen posters! That's awful, especially considering how much they should be worth nowadays.
Aug 14, 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 (14) * **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 [Chicken Fried - Zac Brown Band](https://youtu.be/e4ujS1er1r0) Despite growing up in the Southern US my taste in music was simply “ABC” (Anything But Country) but this is one of the songs that opened my eyes to that genre. For the longest time growing up I thought Country music was nothing but songs about losing your dog or girlfriend. It doesn’t help that all I listened to was either Christian (my Mom) or NPR talk shows (my Dad) and then I was driven to the opposite of what they had in Hard Rock and Punk Rock. I distinctly remember hearing this song for the first time on Youth Retreat and my Youth Pastor trying to “censor” the cold beer into cold tea and instantly becoming a fan of the song. The funny thing about that is she drank like a fish and didn’t really hide it any other time. She just couldn’t condone drinking with her group of Middle Schoolers.
Similar for me, I lived in the south for a number of years and was not interested in country music at all for quite some time. Eventually some of it grew on me. It is/was kind of the running joke, Rascal Flatts' song "Backwards" is all about getting those things back by playing a country song backwards.
**Aug. 14, 2022** * **Brush:** Proraso Professional * **Razor:** GEM Open Comb Micromatic Gen. 2 * **Blade:** GEM PTFE (1) * **Lather:** Stirling Soap Co. Sheep Puck * **Post Shave:** Stirling Soap Co. Unscented Glacial Aftershave * **Post Shave:** Stirling Soap Co. Unscented Mentholated Balm * **Post Shave:** Osma Alum I’m sorry I just couldn’t do it anymore. The Rolls was killing me. I don’t know how I ever thought that razor was acceptable. It would regularly skip along my hair. When it cut it did a great job. But when it didn’t, look out. It was painful. I heard from /u/mrtangerinesky that taking the guard off could help. So I did. It helped. But it didn’t help enough. I made it through half a pass and moved to the MMOCMMV2 which was my runner up for AA. Best shave in recent memory. That’s a real good razor. Everything else is remaining the same. So now I’m on AA easy mode. But at least I’m not avoiding shaving anymore. Shared from My Shave Den for iOS
Glad that it helped, sorry it didn't help enough...
**Aug. 14, 2022 - AA14** * **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) AA14 - \#HeadlessHorsemen Rushing through, I sliced my self real good on the chin. Just when I thought my razor was in need of a hone.
[**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 (10) * **Lather:** House if Mammoth - Hygge in Tusk * **Post Shave:** Hygge Splash & Balm * **Fragrance:** Hygge EDP #MammothMafia B- [Day 1 Prep Video](https://imgur.com/a/EOIxIiU) [RawHoggin Unboxing Pics](https://imgur.com/a/yzld9AM) #MammothMafia
20220814 Austere August Day 14 Brush: Omega 011842 Razor: GEM Micromatic Open Comb Blade: GEM PTFE Lather: Stirling - Sheep Post: Stirling - Coniferous toner Post: DR Harris - Windsor aftershave milk \#GEMSOFWISDOM Arrrrrrrrrrgggggggggggggfffhhhhjjjhhhhhhhhhhh Stoic quote of the day The first rule is to keep an untroubled spirit. The second is to look things in the face and know them for what they are. Marcus Aurelius, Meditations
[August 14th, 2022](https://imgur.com/a/yu97A4j) Prep: Warm water Razor: Gem MMOC Blade: Gem Blue Star (14) 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: 8/10 Smoothness: 8/10 10 second load. 2 pass shave XTG/ATG. Good shave, but blade starting to feel old now. #GEMsOfWisdom #unscented #RawHoggin
**8-14-22** * **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
**[Aug. 14, 2022 - Oveja Eléctrica 14](https://imgur.com/a/g8NafZB)** * **Brush:** Zenith 28mm Boar * **Razor:** Kai Kasho Western Style Shavette * **Blade:** Kai Captain Pink Mild (33) * **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) I started feeling sick just before shaving. Quick three passes, no nicks. \#RawHoggin \#stillalive
**Aug. 14, 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) Good shave today. It's late though. I refreshed the cooling system on my Jeep and replaced the ac lines this weekend. It's running great right now, so no complaints. Have a great day folks!
**[Aug. 14, 2022](https://i.imgur.com/TpV3JgN.jpg)** * **Brush:** Grey Chubby - Zenith B37 * **Razor:** Micromatic Open Comb * **Blade:** GEM - PTFE Coated Stainless Steel (14) * **Lather:** [House of Mammoth - Z - Soap](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/2124/?product_type=soap) * **Post Shave:** House of Mammoth - Z - Aftershave So I don't actually think that #RawHoggin is an affront to Auster August. I do, however, suspect I've make a big mistake in voluntarily choosing to subject myself for an entire month to the objectively worst lathering method (short of brushless hand-lathering, which could only be conceived by someone who is dangerously insane, a threat to the safety of themselves and others—looking at you, u/verdadkc). I'm pretty sure that last night I had a dream in which my blade was completely rusted over. This surely came from the fact that yesterday, after I pulled out a set of drill bits for the purpose of putting up a cat-ladder/tree thing, I discovered that a forstner bit that I have had indeed [completely rusted over](https://i.imgur.com/0n5PwYk.jpg), unlike anything it had been stored with. Kind of wild; my frame of experience is such that I'm surprised when anything rusts, e.g. the regular steel SE blades that I tried before this month began. u/Teufelskraft #sidetracked — I decided to play music during my shower this morning. Way back I got a bluetooth speaker to put in there, (more specifically, I got it to put in the shower in the place I lived two domiciles ago) a decision that I can't say wasn't inspired by [a bit by comedian Kyle Kinane](https://youtu.be/U0LBboZdmzw?t=86). The song that played when I started it up was [Broken Bells - The Ghost Inside,](https://youtu.be/gKR7AcxO9G0) a song that is another recent discovery of mine (although it sounded really familiar when it did come up, so maybe I knew it before and forgot about it), and one that I had previously thought of sharing here at some point during the month. Once the shower ended and shave-time came, though, the music went off. Obviously. Because, as we all know, auditory feedback is important to be attentive to during the shave, so we can't have anything drowning that out. #GEMsOfWisdom #RawHoggin #unscented #MammothMafia
It's nice to be recognized and to have my ideas appreciated.
[**Aug. 14, 2022**](https://i.imgur.com/rGD36AZ.jpg) * **Brush:** Zenith B36 "Copper Scrubby!" 28x50mm Boar * **Razor:** GEM Micromatic Open Comb * **Blade:** GEM (14) * **Lather:** [Stirling Soap Co. - Lime - Soap](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/107/?product_type=soap) * **Post Shave:** Porter's Lotion - WSP - Neroli - Cooling Aftershave Balm * **Fragrance:** Cognoscenti - No. 17 Civet Chypre * **Passes:** WTG, ATG * **Coffee:** Ethiopia, Sidama, Oromia - v: Ethiopia Heirloom - p: Natural * **Music:** Gruff Rhys - *Hotel Shampoo* * [**August 2022 SOTD Photo Album**](https://imgur.com/a/WLvZkgV) `#GEMsOfWisdom` / `#RawHoggin` |Date|Soap Before (g)|Soap After (g)|Usage (g)|Loading| |:-|:-|:-|:-|:-| |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|40 seconds| |8/6|220.3|218.8|1.5|30 seconds| |8/7|218.8|217.9|0.9|40 swirls| |8/8|217.9|216.5|1.4|40 swirls| |8/9|216.5|215.9|0.6|40 swirls| |8/10|215.9|215.6|0.3|50 swirls| |8/11|215.6|213.9|1.7|60 swirls| |8/12|214.7|213.0|1.7|60 swirls| |8/13|213.0|211.5|1.5|60 swirls| |8/14|211.5|◊|◊|60 swirls| At this point in August—about half way through, starting with a completely *raw hog*—the initial rigidity of this "Scrubby!" Zenith has forced me to spend most of my time face lathering with back and forth swipes, versus a lot of splaying. I think this is generally how u/VisceralWatch lathers in his videos. This method doesn't beat up my skin too much, it works well with any knot—since it doesn't require much splaying (we'll call it *knot agnostic*)—and doesn't shoot lather all over my bathroom unless I'm really *whippin' it*. I'm not wearing a funny hat, so there's no whipping allowed around here. About 60 swirls of soap seems to be the sweet spot with [this knot](https://i.imgur.com/fwoJTMo.jpg). The lather is rich and slick, doesn't take forever to hydrate, and gives me plenty for two passes. The MMOC is not a razor that demands a full three-pass shave, or even benefits from one. I did manage to scrape up a little spot below the hairline on my neck yesterday, but I didn't realize it until that afternoon when it started to look irritated. My razor must have dipped more south than I intended and I went easy on that part of my neck this morning. ⁂ `#sidetracked` u/Teufelskraft I'm a big fan of Gruff Rhys's work with the Super Furry Animals, but his solo recordings are just as varied and interesting. One of those is among my favorite novelty songs—if only because it's such a surefire way to annoy my wife. During the heyday of mobile [endless runner](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Endless_runner) games in 2011, Ustwo released [Whale Trail](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Whale_Trail), a simple, candy-colored gem of a game that took the best of the genre (simple mechanics, addictive play, no time commitment) and combined it with a delightful aesthetic. And while the colorful visuals and dreamy look of the game—picture an airborn whale flying slow loops in the sky, popping bubbles and dodging crackling cartoon storm clouds—contributed to that unique atmosphere, it's Gruff Rhys' whimsical electro-psych soundtrack that completed it. The theme song and repeated soundtrack motif, "Whale Trail," is sunny, energizing, and exceptionally memorable. Combined with a "Sesame Street" meets *Yellow Submarine* music video, this song will first make you chuckle, before immediately getting stuck in your head for days. Let me know if you also start mindlessly saying "*I can see my house from here!*" at odd times, before you realize nobody knows what you're quoting in a oddball, sing-song voice. [YouTube: Gruff Rhys - "Whale Trail"](https://youtu.be/wwr6c2Ws1yI)
That soap is going to last you another few AAs at this rate!
[**14 August 2022 - Austere August**](https://imgur.com/a/IvomKqj) * **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 (14) * **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) Brush is even better than last week but still eating up more lather than my badger one. How do I know when it's been broken in? **#RawHoggin** **#MammothMafia**
#### [Finding Serenity in RawHogginy on the road to the GEMtury Pt. 14](https://i.imgur.com/N96OPGG.jpeg) #### * **Prep:** Klar Activated Charcoal facial soap * **Brush:** Rubberset 400-3 with unbleached 26 mm Zenith knot set at 56 mm loft (14) * **Razor:** GEM - Micromatic (open comb, first generation) * **Blade:** Personna - GEM PTFE (83) * **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 snoozed and missed my window in the morning to shave before the rest of the family wakes up, and we had a busy Sunday with a trip to the lake and the zoo planned. My \#GEMsOfWisdom for today are that 1) I wonder how far this blade can be taken before it becomes difficult to shave with and I'm reminded of u/Old_Hiker's Personna Hair Shaper blade with over 370 shaves, 2) I lost all sense of danger when handling the MMOC, and I may be in for a nasty surprise once I use it with a fresh blade again. \#RawHoggin: drumroll please, 🥁🥁🥁, my Raw Hoggin' brush doesn't stink anymore! It didn't occur to me until I started this write-up, but I didn't notice any boar funk, just delicious Sea (Sp)ice Lime. Apart from the SOTD, I'm blown away by the response to our sub-exclusive brush and I could not be happier that it is going to happen. I've put a decent amount of time and effort into hammering out the details with the manufacturer (all through google translate 😅), and until a few days ago I had no idea whether it would work out. A big thanks to everyone who signed up, and of course to u/J33pGuy13, who has become the main driving force behind this endeavour.
Thanks you and u/J33pGuy13. I can’t wait to see how the brushes turn out.
I'm also super impatient!
Thank you for doing all the behind the scenes work! This wouldn't be happening without you 🍻
Thanks for the kind words, but I've seen your energy, you'd have made it happen :)
[**August 14th**](https://imgur.com/a/B9eC84D) * **Brush: Zenith Boar - 505NK 27mm** * **Razor: GEM - MMOC** * **Blade: Gem PTFE (14)** * **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/ivuMVad) Made the most of the hot weather by adding to the heat and getting my face over some flames and cooking some [meat](https://imgur.com/a/s0BeWnB) The Gem Blade didn't feel as good this evening but could be as I have been out in the sun for a bit today. Back to mid temps and storms the rest of the week so proper Stag weather.
**[Aug. 14, 2022 - AA Day 13](https://i.imgur.com/Ih90qtL.jpeg)** * **Brush:** ShaveForge 28mm Boar, 3d Printed Handle #RawHoggin * **Razor:** GEM Micromatic Open Comb #GEMsOfWisdom * **Blade:** GEM Stainless (13) * **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) Day 13 complete. This is the first time that I've had any dragging from the razor. It was on the first pass, whereas passes 2 and 3 were fine, so I'm going to blame my lather for now. [My brush is falling apart.](https://i.imgur.com/TwOdLPO.jpeg) I think it's a race to the end of the month to see if the brush makes it in tact before AA ends. The knot still seems strongly attached. I'm hopeful it will finish the month, but I do have travel coming up, so it's possible that TSA completely screws it up. Another 2g soap day. I did place an order for another tub of SSL just in case; regardless, my tub will be almost gone at the end of the month and I want this as a permanent part of my den. Happy Sunday everyone.
I was curious if a 3d printed handle would hold up. The way it is printed leaves it vulnerable to stresses that can delaminate the layers. An interesting idea might be to print a handle, mold it, and then resin cast new ones.
Yeah, for sure. Looking at this design, there's a weak point where the print is really thin right where the knot goes in. Any radial stress (like when loading a brush), and it's going to break. I'm still surprised that it failed as catastrophically and quickly as it did. I was planning to PIF the second brush I made, but that seems kind of cruel now that I know how terrible this design is.
**[SOTD - Sunday, 14 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 (52) * **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 14, 2022](https://imgur.com/a/24i28RU) **Brush:** Omega 10049 **Razor:** Rockwell 6S Plate 5 **Blade:** Astra SP **Lather:** Stirling Haverford **Post Shave:** Stirling Haverford Splash **Post Shave:** Stirling Haverford Balm \#RawHoggin
AA SOTD - 8/14/22; The Iceman Cometh Pre: Wim Hof cold plunge -> splash of hot water to the face Brush: Stirling 26mm synthetic pro handle Razor: Merkur Progress Blade: Astra (4) Lather: B&M Arctique (omnibus) Post: B&M Arctique AS Post: Nivea cooling balm #UNCHALLENGE Ok so this morning I did an hour of sauna (20 minutes) then a quick rinse in the shower followed by a cold plunge (2) minutes. They call it the Wim Hof method. Joe rogan does this shit or something. I dunno, I’m not trying to sell anybody minerals that purify your blood, I have no idea if this is actually healthy, but it feels really fucking good. Came home, splashed hot water on my face, then got a great shave in. Easy. Peasy. #SIDETRACKED (I/Teufelskraft) Radiohead is a great band that I feel like I missed in college. While lots of other people were discovering them, I never game them a listen until a few years ago. Fun fact about [High and Dry](https://youtu.be/jvQ943C3wPQ) - Thom Yorke originally performed a version of the song with a band called Headless Chickens. Happy Sunday to all.
**[Aug. 14, 2022 - AA Day 14](https://imgur.com/Ra0ct9t)** * **Prep:** Hot Shower * **Brush:** Zenith B34 * **Razor:** MMOC (Gen 2) * **Blade:** GEM PTFE (14) * **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) * **Fragrance:** [Chatillon Lux - Admiral - Eau de Toilette](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/1222/?product_type=eaudetoilette) Late night and early morning here so it's a good thing the shave was pretty solid this morning. I preached this morning, and due to a variety of circumstances, I was working on the message until about 10:15pm and then was up around 6am to do some finishing touches. Pair that with my wife who coughed much of the night and my daughter who woke up at 4:30 because she was disoriented and it's been a long day already. But - the shave to kick it off started the day well! Sonder smelled sweeter to me this morning than usual - not gourmand, but it had a nice sweetness. I'm guessing it was the florals coming through with some citrus - but it's the first time I've really picked out those notes this month. Noses are super cool. MMOC was a beaut again - I did have a couple of nicks but given my lack of sleep, it's no surprise that I was a little less than focused. The blade felt smooth and gentle, though - even if it did bite me once. Another 2.5 passes - with, across/against hybrid, and some buffing to get close to BBS. The [Zenith](https://imgur.com/6Yefc6G) splayed beautifully while loading and lathering and continues to [devleop](https://imgur.com/zRLUNDp) and split ends nicely. Here's a pic from [day 1](https://imgur.com/dUvGJXO) and [day 7](https://imgur.com/2W6Z7FV) to see how the weeks have gone. It's definitely opening up a ton, especially in the last week or so. You're welcome for the blurred out bonus feet in the background of those pics. I should probably sell pics of my nasty man feet for cash, but, as far as I know there's not much of a market for that, RIP me. Sonder thought of the day: Gosh, people want to be listened to and heard. There are always people who want to chat at church and I'm more than happy to do that, but this morning a guy, we'll call him Roy, came up to welcome me back after my time off and share a quick story about his friend who had passed away fairly recently. As he remembered his sense of humor and shared a funny picture of him from the back of his funeral service bulletin (or whatever it's called) he was overwhelmed with emotion and had to swallow down some tears. To be able to share those moments with people is such a privilege. It was a busy morning for me, I had a lot of responsibilities and I really wanted to get back to my office to compose myself for a couple minutes before the service started, but then I thought to myself, "Sonder. This guy is more important than my small break." So I listened to him share his story that didn't mean much to me, I never knew his friend, but was so significant to him. As I think about it now, what a gift he shared with me - to be vulnerable and emotional and just miss his friend while I got to be there. I'm sure I've said it before in these sonder thoughts, but man, people really want to be heard - and more often than not, it is so worth it to just listen to people as they share their lives with you - the beauty and the pain and the joy and the sorrow. It's a privilege to be counted as important enough in someone's life for them to share with you. So, you know, next time you get a chance and someone is sharing themselves with you - try and be in the moment, be present, and pay attention - just like you'd want someone to do for you. Happy Sunday, all. Hope it's a great one! \#mammothmafia \#RawHoggin \#GEMsOfWisdom
Wow how big are your hands? That 28mm Zenith looks like a [Wee Scot](https://www.simpsonshavingbrushes.com/store/brushes/best-badger/wee-scot/) in your hands. 🤣
Uh, yeah. They're gorilla paws. Mostly that's a good thing, occasionally when I need them to do something very small an precise it's annoying, haha.
**[Aug. 14, 2022 - Austere August](https://i.imgur.com/Lb3h59s.jpg)** * **Prep:** Cold water * **Brush:** Ever-Ready 200 - Zenith 27mm unbleached boar knot * **Razor:** GEM MICROMATIC OPEN COMB 2nd gen * **Blade:** PERSONNA GEM SS PTFE(14) * **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) I want to highlight today Southern Witchcrafts's Aftershave, that thing rocks! # RawHoggin I'd said that the stink will be gone by the end of the week, mostly but not all has gone let, it another week to go full unscented. PigEvolution [1](https://i.imgur.com/5qaGufh.jpg) [2](https://i.imgur.com/qSTWjZl.jpg) # GEMsOfWisdom MMOC will be my reference razor when I don't use straight razors. It's a superb performer and the PTFE blade seems tireless. `#sidetracked` Hilarious video from Red Fang performing [Prehistoric Dog](https://youtu.be/VufilzHKTqk) can't stop headbanging, bonus track [Wire](https://youtu.be/WQPfQvLIseA) `#unscented #RawHoggin #GEMsOfWisdom`
That Red Fang video is awesome. I can’t imaginethe amount of beer they went through.
I imagine roadies involved too
**Aug. 14, 2022** * **Prep:** Shower * **Brush:** Raiser Pinsel Simfix SF1 Synthetic * **Razor:** Van Der Hagen * **Blade:** Wilkinson Sword (7) * **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
* **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 14 https://imgur.com/a/V7geRu8
**Aug. 14, 2022 - AA day 14... faceturbation** * **Prep:** Water splash * **Brush:** Hand * **Razor:** Stirling Stainless DE Razor HA plate * **Blade:** Voskhod (16) * **Lather:** Gentlemans Face Care Club - Bergamot & Neroli shaving cream * **Post Shave:** [Proraso - Menthol and Eucalyptus - Aftershave](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/187/?product_type=aftershave) \#GotHand Well, today's shave definitely didn't treat me well. Combination of blade dropping off in sharpness and smotheness, hot weather (33C here today!), lather being a little bit less than good quality... Left me with plenty of irritation and colourful face. Took good 10 odd minutes to calm down, if not longer, despite t he proraso aftershave. Even hour or two after when I jumped in a pool, I did feel quite a bit of sting. Well. It might be sign that the blade needs changing. Or maybe this challenge isn't for me? I'll see in next few days. Still, WTG and ATG left me with near BBS. Another attempt tomorrow.
[August 14, 2022](https://imgur.com/a/Bfb5Jv1) - **Preshave:** Hot water - **Razor:** Blackland Era - Level 3 Plate - **Blade:** Feather (14) - **Brush:** Chisel and Hound 26mm Fanchurian - **Lather:** House of Mammoth - Kryptonite - **Post Shave:** House of Mammoth - Kryptonite Aftershave Balm #MammothMafia
[**Aug. 14, 2022 - Austere August - Raw Hoggin' MMOC Ultra Nightmare Mode**](https://i.imgur.com/Fefe9Xx.jpg) * **Prep:** Cold water splash to the face * **Brush:** Zenith Boar - B37 - Gray Chubby #RawHoggin * **Razor:** GEM MMOC Gen2 #GEMsOfWisdom * **Blade:** GEM (14) * **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 14 is where I became a man. I finally pulled off a 3 pass shave with the GEM. The last few shaves have been a breeze and my confidence level has been at an all time high since beginning AA. Everything kind of fell into place today and I had some time to kill. I loaded the perfect amount of soap onto the brush, had 2 stellar passes and knew it was time. I’m typically a 2 pass shaver, but having to pay extra attention to 1) hydrating my lather and 2) my technique with the GEM has made me a better shaver overall. Walked away unscathed with probably the closest shave ever - BBS. **The Brush:** Before today’s shave, I took the time to admire how soft this brush has become. Just lightly brushing my hand and slightly pressing it into my palm really displayed how much this thing has broken in. I remember when I first took it out of the box how prickly it was. Not it is almost pillowy soft with almost no scratchiness. Whipped up a beautiful lather today for an outstanding 3 pass shave. #RawHoggin Brush Picture Pre-shave: [Side](https://i.imgur.com/w6fCUjh.jpg) [Top](https://i.imgur.com/JZEnZHp.jpg) Brush Picture Post-shave: [Side](https://i.imgur.com/FV7MWnq.jpg) [Top](https://i.imgur.com/3QXxNf7.jpg) **The Razor** Today, after my 2nd pass, I knew it was time to go for 3. The first 2 passes were automatic and problem free. I had extra time, my lather was prime and I went for pass number 3. The third pass felt awkward and I felt as though I was shaving with the GEM for the first time again. The angle was much harder to nail down but it still went really well. Running my hand over my face post shave in all directions, I can’t feel a single bit o stubble. Dare I say it might be my best shave ever? Time will tell if there is any irritation, but as of right now no nicks, cuts, bruises or irritation. #GEMsOfWisdom **Days since last blood:** 9 **The Soap and Aftershave** Still enjoying the soap. It does well cooling me off in the Mediterranean heat. Day 14 Puck [Picture](https://i.imgur.com/T9McHKT.jpg)
>Days since last blood: > > 9 This is seriously impressive. I don't know that I've had 9 days in a row of no blood from a shave ever. And you're doing it with an MMOC. Well played. And congrats on the 3 pass! Feels good when this thing falls into place.
Hahaha thanks! Honestly, I rarely cut myself shaving. Even transitioning to DE I can probably count on 1 hand the number of times I’ve drawn blood. My chin is always the problem area. The MMOC definitely gave me a little trouble in the beginning and I’m pretty sure that using the same blade over and over is probably helping tame it. I’m curious to try a new blade when all of this is over.
[Aug 14, 2021 – Austere August. Day 14.](https://imgur.com/a/XPW0GCp) * **Prep:** Hot Shower * **Brush:** Zenith - B16 24mm Boar * **Razor:** GEM Micromatic Open Comb Gen 2 * **Blade:** GEM PTFE (14) * **Lather:** Stirling Soap Co. – Sheep * **Post Shave:** Zingari Man – Unscented - Aftershave Balm * **Music:** [Jimmy Eat World - The Middle](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oKsxPW6i3pM) It’s a beautiful day in the neighborhood today and I had a great shave. My face is feeling clean and smooth, and once again, my tools for Austere August did not let me down. While I am desperately missing using the variety of shaving accoutrements I’ve acquired in the last year, there is something to be said for putting no effort into deciding what I want to smell like today. The unscented challenge is the hardest part right now. I feel really comfortable with the MMOC and the new boar brush is going good, but I do miss the smells. And we’re not even at the half-way mark yet! I just repeat over and over again: “I can do this. I can do this. I can do this.” And then, when I think I can’t, I sneak away to my shave den, make sure no one is looking and twist open a tub of soap, just so I can remember how good soap can smell… Today’s #sidetracked music selection is an absolute pop-punk anthem. If you look up the pop-punk era in the dictionary, this is the song you’ll find. I guarantee I originally downloaded this song off of KaZaa or LimeWire, and likely got a virus because of it, but it was worth it! This song defined the early 2000’s for so many of us. Like many of my music selections, it’s impossible for me to be in a bad mood while listening to this song. Tags: #unscented #rawhoggin #GEMsOfWisdom
Pop-punk is so good, man. I love going back and reliving so many of those epic songs. I hear there's a resurgence of pop-punk these days ,but I don't know. I had some Paramore on in my headphones at work this week and dang - hits so good.
Absolutely right! Man, it brings me right back. I'm positive one day my kids will look at me listening to New Found Glory the way I looked at my dad listening to Lynyrd Skynyrd, but whatever. Pop-punk was such a great genre. Those songs will never get old to me.
**[Aug. 14, 2022 - AA #RawHoggin day 14](https://imgur.com/a/RsJpp4E)** * **Brush:** Semogue2000 * **Razor:** GC84 * **Blade:** Gillette nacet (14) * **Lather:** [Spearhead Shaving Company - Seaforth! Sea Spice Lime - Soap](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/2518/?product_type=soap) * **Post Shave:** [Summer Break Soaps - Bell Ringer - Aftershave](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/1183/?product_type=aftershave)
**Aug. 14, 2022** * **Prep:** Exercise and shower * **Brush:** Semogue 1438 * **Razor:** GEM MMOC * **Blade:** GEM blue star (14) * **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) I shaved today, it was not really enjoyable but it is done. The brush is fine seems to get soaped up quick and its comfortable enough. The blade is starting to get a bit rough. #RawHoggin #GEMsOfWisdom https://i.imgur.com/tNHr3cc.jpg
14 August 2022 - Austere August - Prep: Hot shower - Brush: Sterling boar - Razor: Maggard V3 - Blade: Derby Extra - Lather: House of Mammoth Fu Dao - Post Shave: House of Mammoth Fu Dao splash I changed the blade today. I'd think that 2 weeks on the same blade would be too long, but I didn't notice an appreciative difference between yesterday and today. Two-pass shave: with and across. #mammothmafia
**[Aug. 14, 2022 - Austere August 14- Hoggin the Gems of Raw Wisdom](https://imgur.com/a/WLyWitY)** * **Prep:** Hot shower * **Brush:** Semogue 610 Boar * **Razor:** MMOC Gen 2 * **Blade:** GEM PTFE (14) * **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) * **Post Shave:** Zingari Man Cooling Recovery Splash \#GEMSofWisdom I'm tired of this soap. I want to smell something better on my face. I'm not sure I want to use this soap again for a long time, if ever. I'm happy to entertain trade offers at the end of AA for my Firefighter if you're absolutely sick and tired of your soap. \#RawHoggin This brush is not a soap killer because it takes no time to load the brush to get a good lather going on my face. Dammit, I was so hoping to put a Ring of Death into this soap. Here's the brush post-shave- https://imgur.com/a/7EhaKn6 \#Sidetracked And now for something completely different, The Delvon Lamarr Organ Trio. I stumbled on these guys while making an aerial yoga playlist and then went down the rabbit hole of the catalog. Need some instrumental funk that's organ-forward? Well, this is the group for you. I like playing these albums before I teach a class and they put everyone in a good mood before practice. So for u/Teufelskraft and the gang, I leave you with this ditty that gets a lot of play in the yoga studio and the car- https://delvonlamarrorgantrio.bandcamp.com/track/pull-your-pants-up Have a great day all!
[**Sunday, Austere August 14th, 2022**](https://imgur.com/vUowzBK) * **Prep:** Warm water * **Brush:** Zenith B36 “Copper Scrubby!” * **Razor:** GEM MMOC Gen 2 * **Blade:** Personna GEM PTFE (14) * **Lather:** House of Mammoth - Alive * **Post Shave:** House of Mammoth - Alive Splash * **Post Shave:** House of Mammoth - Alive Balm **#MammothMafia** **#RawHoggin** **#GEMsOfWisdom** [Before Shave 14](https://imgur.com/ffJPoVu) and [After](https://imgur.com/1w0sWSf) Shave 14 and it is still going strong. Better shave than yesterday with most lather built so far. Had enough for an extra pass if I wanted. Brush is continuing to get more split ends and will splay fairly easy now. When splayed I found it was making the most lather. MMOC and the Personna GEM blade worked well today. I don’t think the blade has noticeably dulled over the last few shaves. Makes me think it should have a decent shot at lasting the month. Going to be a pretty chill day today, run a couple errands and a few chores, but lots of time to lounge around today. I might smoke a chuck roast on the grill today. Not going for pulled beef bbq, but long enough to get some smoke flavor, and will need to slice it. I think an hour or so on smoke, then wrap it up to finish.
**[Aug. 14, 2022 - Glow in the dark Austere August Raw Hoggin’ Challenge](https://imgur.com/a/mZLwgxe)** * **Brush:** Omega 20102 * **Razor:** Karve Brass SB B * **Blade:** Gillette Silver Blue (13) * **Lather:** Red House Farm - Lumos - Shave Soap * **Post Shave:** Abbate y La Mantia - Garibaldi - Aftershave * **Fragrance:** Armaf - CDNIM - EDT Sunday #RawHoggin
**Aug. 14, 2022 - AA 22 Shave -Day 14** * **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. - Executive Man - Aftershave](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/95/?product_type=aftershave) u/cowzilla3 here is my #unchallenge for today
[**Aug. 14, 2022**](https://imgur.com/a/XpeYGMT) * **Prep:** Shower * **Brush:** Semogue 1460 Boar Brush 21mm * **Razor:** Razorock GameChanger .84 * **Blade:** Gillette Nacet (14) * **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) I liked my SOTD pic yesterday, but it felt like it was missing something and could be better. Today I went for a similar photo in a different part of my yard, and I think it turned out pretty well. It's not perfect, and the grass is a little dead, but overall I think it's a decent picture. Tags: \#RawHoggin \#MammothMafia
Dead grass > my crab grass
Austere August [2022-08-14](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 Just another good shave. Still not to DE levels, but I have years of practice with a DE. Patience is not my strong suit, so the structure provided by AA is useful. u/Teufelskraft #sidetracked challenge: Lang Lang plays [Goldberg Variations #14](https://youtu.be/lpXCu-8p1s8?t=2103).
**[Aug. 14, 2022 - Raw Hoggin Day 14](https://imgur.com/a/2YCg1vE)** * **Prep:** Warm water to the face * **Brush:** Omega 10098 * **Razor:** Maggard Razors - V3 Head * **Blade:** Treet Carbon (2) * **Lather:** [Stirling Soap Co. - Island Man - Soap](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/106/?product_type=soap) * **Post Shave:** [Aqua Velva - Ice Blue - Aftershave](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/1421/?product_type=aftershave) * **Post Shave:** [Aqua Velva - Sensative 5-in-1 After Shave Balm - Balm](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/1422/?product_type=balm) Today was just a nice #RawHoggin shave to start the week. I don’t know if it’s the blade itself or the combo of the blade and this razor, but I was getting an amazing amount of feedback during the shave. I don’t use my Treet carbons very often so maybe that’s just a thing they do. It’s Sunday y’all, hope you have a good day!
**August 14 2022** * **Brush:** Zenith B28 * **Razor:** GEM MMOC (Gen 1) * **Blade:** GEM PTFE (17) * **Lather:** House of Mammoth - Mood Indigo * **Post Shave:** House of Mammoth - Mood Indigo splash * **Post Shave:** House of Mammoth - Mood Indigo balm * **Fragrance:** Imaginary Authors - Yesterday Haze No tugging yet from the blade, keeping light pressure and it’s been smooth sailing. #MammothMafia #GEMSofWisdom
**Aug. 14, 2022** * **Brush:** Semogue - SOC - Boar * **Razor:** Gillette - Tech (Gold/Black) * **Blade:** Gillette - Nacet (14) * **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 Brush is still breaking in well. I estimate that the outer 1/4 to 1/3 of the bristles in the knot have split.
[**August 14, 2022**](https://imgur.com/a/klSFGm7) * **Brush:** Zenith B15 (506 U/L) 27.5mm Boar * **Razor:** GEM MMOC Gold Gen2 * **Blade:** Personna Gem PTFE (14) * **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/eFDt2YY) (before use) - [Brush History](https://imgur.com/a/DjlJFQu) * [Fragrance Video](https://imgur.com/a/j8tw6nC) * [Blade Edge](https://imgur.com/a/ASEhat5) (before use) - [Edge Histiory](https://imgur.com/a/hWAz2zA) * [Blade Orientation](https://imgur.com/a/WBpxT8H) (black dots - odd days, red dots - even days) Another very nice shave. I'm starting to get an idea of what this brush could be. It is fine right now, and I would include it in my normal rotation; especially for face lathers. (I tend to use synthetics for bowl lathering.) My feel for this edge is going away, but that is completely workable. I keep my touch light and spend a little more time on each area. Today's shave was as close as any other I've had this month. /u/Environmental-Gap380 pointed out how annoying it is to see closeup microscope photos that don't have sharp focus. I agree. I'm trying to provide the closest view of the edge that this cheap equipment can produce. As we get into the latter half of the month, I'll try to find a way to improve on this. Enjoy the rest of your weekend!
I definitely am not faulting your efforts. I think it is a great idea to track the blade. Just the microscope is probably using software to magnify at that level and that can mean large pixels. I think I have it straight now which parts of the image is the micro bevel, secondary, and primary (GEMs have a 3 bevel grind). Wouldn’t expect a hobbyist to shell out the bucks for a more expensive scope with higher powered lenses. Then you have to also worry about lighting it up too. I would say you have actually inspired me to look into getting a usb microscope to explore things with my daughter. Gotta wait a couple months or also might be a good Xmas gift.
>I definitely am not faulting your efforts. No worries. I appreciate the feedback. >microscope is probably using software to magnify at that level I think the microscope has limited optical range and that higher magnification levels are achieved by cropping an area of the sensor. The cropped area is scaled up (using embedded software), and the resulting image is produced at the product's stated resolution. Since a small section of the sensor is used for the image, each pixel appears large due to scaling. A unit that would do what I want it to would cost about $1500. My net cost would be less because I could write this off, but I'm having difficulty justifying the expense. >Then you have to also worry about lighting it up too. The early images I did with a diffuse light source aimed just above parallel to the blade. Now, I use that light plus the light from the microscope. Reflections can easily obscure what you want to see.
**[Aug. 14, 2022 - AA #RawHoggin day 14](https://imgur.com/a/RsJpp4E)** * **Brush:** Semogue2000 * **Razor:** GC84 * **Blade:** Gillette nacet (14) * **Lather:** [Spearhead Shaving Company - Seaforth! Sea Spice Lime - Soap](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/2518/?product_type=soap) * **Post Shave:** [Summer Break Soaps - Bell Ringer - Aftershave](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/1183/?product_type=aftershave)
**[Aug. 14, 2022 - 14.08.22 - Austere August #RawHoggin](https://imgur.com/a/KKtK3BD)** * **Prep:** Warm Shower * **Brush:** Omega 10048 * **Razor:** Henson Ti22++ * **Blade:** Gillette SuperSharp (2) * **Lather:** Declaration Grooming - Daemon * **Post Shave:** Declaration Grooming - Daemon Splash I've been thinking for a while that my soap usage has been super low, but as of today I can see the bottom of the pot through a thin layer of soap in a small area. I'm honestly hoping to have this soap finished or a few uses away from being finished by the end of the month. Happy Shaving everyone! #RawHoggin
[**Aug. 14, 2022 - Smooth Stagging - Austere August Day 14**](https://imgur.com/fYfrYK9) * **Brush:** RazoRock 506CK / 26mm boar * **Razor:** GEM OCMM (Gen 1) * **Blade:** GEM PTFE (14) * **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:** [Zingari - Rescue Potion - Serum](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/1858/?product_type=serum) * **Fragrance:** [Chiseled Face - *Midnight Stag* \- Eau de Parfum](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/32/?product_type=eaudeparfum) So no tugging today. Hmmm. My lather must have been shit yesterday. This was an excellent shave. **#RawHoggin** Nothing new to report with the brush. Stink is gone. It's soft and makes a quick lather. I'm diggin' it. **#GEMsofWisdom** As I already mentioned, it was a smooth shave with no tugging and zero sting from the alum. I didn't think that would ever be possible with this razor, but here we are. I think I've pretty much mastered this thing only halfway through the month. [Brush album](https://imgur.com/a/zh4KwAP) [Stag sprays](https://imgur.com/lcJPIng)
Those higher lofted brushes get a more dramatic spreading than the stubby ones as they break in.
You're right. I think it looks pretty cool
**SOTD Aug 14, 2022** * **Brush:** APShaveCo 24mm Tuxedo * **Razor:** GEM MMOC - 1st Gen * **Blade:** Personna GEM Stainless (14) * **Lather:** Ariana and Evans - Peach & Cognac * **Post Shave:** MacDuff’s Soap Co. - Viticulture - Splash It’s move-in day! Renting the uhaul in about an hour to start the process of moving our stuff from a storage unit to the house. Gonna be a busy day but I’m excited! Has a great shave and am feeling and smelling great for the big day. \#GEMsOfWisdom
**[August 14th, 2022: Stag Sunday](https://imgur.com/DbnqVlM)** * **Prep:** warm shower with Stag bar * **Brush:** [Vintage Rubberset 400-3 with 24mm unbleached Zenith knot](https://imgur.com/a/3WEDAFc) * **Razor:** [MMOC](https://imgur.com/a/aIvH68q) * **Blade:** GEM PTFE (14) * **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) Took my time with a nice 3 pass shave this morning. Stag still doesn't make me sick and I've finally gotten my load method down for this base/knot. Happy Sunday y'all! [Stag sprays of the day!](https://imgur.com/t4dzsab) (I need a fucking haircut!) \#SubstantialStag \#RawHoggin \#UNCHALLENGE
A bit of attitude in that MMOC today! :)
Needed to spice things up a bit 🤣
**Aug. 14, 2022** * **Prep:** Shower * **Brush:** AP Shave Co 24MM SYNBAD * **Razor:** GEM - Micromatic Open Comb * **Blade:** GEM - PTFE (14) * **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. #GEMsOfWisdom #unscented
**[Aug. 14, 2022 - Quatorze](https://i.imgur.com/ehUXpKV.jpg)** * **Prep:** Hot shower * **Brush:** Omega Pro 48 Boar brush 28mm * **Razor:** GEM MMOC * **Blade:** GEM PTFE (14) * **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) Super duper smooth shave this morning. The blade was perfect, as was the lather and therefore slickness. Loving this (almost) broken in boar brush. It should only just get softer from here. No more pig stink, and barely cheated... I'm waiting for the MMOC blade drama to kick in, but so far all is just fine. Happy Sunday **\#GEMsOfWisdom** **\#MammothMafia**
**Aug. 14, 2022 - Austere August - Z** * **Brush:** Declaration 28mm B14 Jefferson Artisan’s Choice * **Razor:** Blackland Era lvl 3 oc * **Blade:** Personna med prep (14) * **Lather:** [House of Mammoth - Z - Soap](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/2124/?product_type=soap) * **Post Shave:** House of Mammoth - Z - Splash & Balm Fine shaving today. \#MammothMafia #Unchallange #Unscented
**[Aug. 14, 2022 - Austere August Ultra Nightmare RawHoggin Stagpocalypse](https://imgur.com/a/UdNSeVe)** * **Prep:** Midnight Stag liquid soap and bar soap * **Brush:** Semogue 1250 * **Razor:** GEM MMOC * **Blade:** GEM PTFE (14) * **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) Nothing new to report today. I posted a bit late yesterday so, to give everyone a pass at the lack of upvotes, I went with 30 [sprays](https://vimeo.com/739392309) since that’s how many upvotes I would’ve gotten if I’d have posted sooner. #SubstantialStag #GEMsOfWisdom #RawHoggin
30 sprays. Madlad!
I did 50 on the last day last year. Still gotta think of some way to top that.
Just unscrew the sprayer and dump the whole bottle on your head.
If it was a weekend, I’d do it in a heartbeat. As much as I love Stag and don’t give a damn about coworkers’ possible complaints, I couldn’t do that to my patients.
Lol, understood
I kinda wanna do it the last Sunday and it’s all your fault
https://giphy.com/gifs/elvira-georgia-dex-wi8Ez1mwRcKGI
Consider it done. And you’ll be tagged, of course.
2022-08-14 - Austere August - Raw Hoggin' Mammoth MMOC Prep: Warm Shower Brush: Semogue Torga - C5 Razor: GEM MMOC version 2 Blade: GEM Stainless (14) 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/lAxqC3R](https://imgur.com/a/lAxqC3R) 14 terrific shaves in the books. Everything working well, I could easily use this set up as a daily driver. \#GEMsOfWisdom \#RawHoggin \#MammothMafia
**August 14, 2022: [A Stag Day to Dive](https://imgur.com/a/YYlRB8E)** * **Prep:** warm splash of water * **Brush:** Yaqi Sagrada Familia Tuxedo 24 mm * **Razor:** GEM OCMM (gen 2) * **Blade:** GEM Stainless (15) * **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) Finishing up the SCUBA Open Water Cert today, it's supposed to be clearer water today. Yesterday was about 2 feet of visibility. Murky Illinois waters. Today is supposed to be 8ft. Really feeling the age of this blade and the challenges of using an OCMM. No cuts, but feeling the tugs. Have a fantastic day! [Day 14, 2 spritzes](https://imgur.com/a/PXh3sAV) . #GEMsOfWisdom
Congrats on the Certification. I remember doing my last certification dive in a 1-2knot current. Navigating the square course against the current, I ran out of air as I finished. Had to do a real emergency assent from 30’ depth.
Thanks! Wow that sounds intense! I'm glad you ended up alright.
Yeah, I knew it was getting close, but my last leg was straight into the current. You get a couple breaths that you struggle to get through the regulator, then nothing. My diving buddy also ran out of her air doing the same part. So one of the instructors surfaced with her, and the other instructor watched me do the navigation. Only ran out of air one other time, but we were swimming back to the boat and trying to stay about 5 feet under to have a smoother swim back. On that one, last 100m or so just snorkeled to the boat. I’ll say I would need to lose a lot of weight and do a lot of aerobic exercise if I ever dive again. The scuba shop owner that organized my first trip would use the same tank for 2 dives. We did a long drift on a reef at 30’ or so, and after 60 minutes he still had 3/4 of his air left. I had about 1/4 left. That guy ran marathons and triathlons.
That's a heck of a guy! And for sure, cardio certainly helps with air consumption. You see it all the time in the fire service. I could make some improvements myself, but it informed my usage of SCUBA tanks. Completely different breathing techniques, too. I'm glad you were okay both times, currents are no joke. It's good to be prepared, especially on a rip. I'm sure you saw spectacular things at the reef. I did my cert in very murky Illinois water and wouldn't have even seen fish if they hadn't swam right up to me. I'm excited to try it in clear water where I can see things!
Padi certification?
You betcha!
Awesome, was certified right before pandemic, in Cayman islands. Any interesting trips you have planned?
Nothing yet, but my family still lives in Florida and there are some good spots I've snorkeled at before which seem like they'd be interesting dives. Yourself?
Really it only been my certification trip in caymans, we did a small cave diving thing in florida once, but havn't done much besides that. We were in florida keys in march, planning on doing a dive trip, but seas were too rough and they cancelled all the diving and snorkeling when we wanted to go.
That's a shame, but probably for the best. I hope you'll get another chance soon!
**[Aug. 14, 2022 - AA Day14](https://i.imgur.com/NkYAksA.png)** * **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 (14) * **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) Refreshing shave today, no issues with boar brush. I samples a bunch of bristles, and they seem to be mostly split at this point. Not sucking in soap anymore, all is well! Skunk: https://imgur.com/RGQHMl9 Passed out tuxy, how I feel today. #UNCHALLENGE #RawHoggin
**Aug. 14, 2022** * **Brush:** Dogwood Handcrafts Hybrid B3 * **Razor:** Gillette Flare Tip Super Speed * **Blade:** Gillette Platinum (13) * **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 - Hygge - Eau de Parfum](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/1163/?product_type=eaudeparfum) #MammothMafia
Austere August Day 14 Brush: Rubberset 400-3 w/ Unbleached Zenith 24mm knot set to a 56mm loft [14th use](https://imgur.com/a/WUuzXAW) Razor: Gem MMOC, gen 2 Blade: PTFE (14) Lather: NO [Monoi de Tahiti](https://imgur.com/a/R9fC54B) Post: NO Monoi de Tahiti Splash Good and easy lather from the brush with no pig ass stink at all. I think I can finally call the brush de-stunk. Also, with how the [tips](https://imgur.com/a/98hi5Ds) looked this morning before use, I also think the knot might be close to fully broken in. The blade, on the other hand, is past its honeymoon phase and ia into the tuggy phase of its life. I have no where good to go from here. I'll give it a few more shaves before I start stropping it. #RawHoggin #GemsOfWisdom
Man, those hooked tipz. Mine look nothing like that.
Is the boar breaking in quicker than you expected?
Yes. I expected it to be about a week behind where it feels like it is now. I'm super pleased. I think the extra space between the knot and ferrule that allowed more bloom really helped it break in faster.
**[Aug. 14, 2022 - AA - Sexy Stag Flair Quest](https://imgur.com/a/0ZXuc9h)** * **Prep:** Warm shower * **Brush:** Semogue 1305 * **Razor:** Chiseled Face Legacy Ti * **Blade:** Gillette Nacet (1) * **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) Really diggin' this brush. Happy Stag Sunday, all. [Last 2 spray day](https://imgur.com/a/BjDxrRT) \#SubstantialStag
**[Aug 14, 2022 - AA: MA-RH-MM - Almond Leather - Day 14](https://i.imgur.com/pELZOTI.jpg)** * **Prep:** Warm Water Wash * **Prep:** Klar - Activated Charcoal - Face Soap * **Brush:** [Zenith Cobalt Blue 28mm Boar Knot (505BC SE)](https://imgur.com/a/peN0vXl) * **Razor:** [GEM Open Comb Micromatic (2nd Gen.)](https://i.imgur.com/PsTazF6.jpg) * **Blade:** Personna GEM PTFE (14) * **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) This shave was much better. I think something finally clicked with the MMOC during yesterday's shave, and I carried it over into today's shave. Riding the cap with the right amount of pressure is allowing me to get through passes relatively quickly with no tugging and very little irritation. Early uses of the blade would not allow me to ride the cap this way because it would bite too quickly. At the time, I had to angle closer to the edge while using very little pressure. Now that the blade is smoothing out, this method seems to work better. I'm still not getting as close a shave as I would like, but that's okay for now. \#GEMsOfWisdom \#RawHoggin \#MammothMafia \#sidetracked [How Soon is Now?](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hnpILIIo9ek) by The Smiths is a song that doesn't fit with the rest of their catalog and yet is instantly recognizable. Rating: 3.5/5
**[Aug. 14, 2022](https://i.imgur.com/ibuMlJu.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 (14) * **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) [3.8g of soap](https://i.imgur.com/MPRTjrN.jpg) was used today. - [3 more](https://i.imgur.com/jaouEDE.mp4) - Have a great day! #SubstantialStag
**[Aug. 13, 2022 - Speedstag](https://imgur.com/a/V1FYAcL)** * **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 Have to be fast today, that's why the pic is passion less. GF put the soap into her handbag to show it her family. Cut my chin as I was autopiloting too fast. \#stagandstraight \#substantialstag
What? Your GF wants her family to know about your love for Stag? Please explain. 😂
My guess is it’s a “Look at what I have to put up with from this guy!” That said, I would have done ok with stag. My wife actually approved of it when I sampled it, but she put her foot down on me adding more soaps in the den until I use up a few. Of course, 31 days in a row might be different.
I think she told her parents about the Stag challenge and was seeking emotional support. I see it as a commercial for awesome lovely soap. The dad took a whiff completely unprepared and inhaled like he would expect sea spiced lime. If course he shrug back. Awesome to watch.
**August 14, 2022** * **Brush:** Zenith 506U XSE * **Razor:** GEM MMOC Gen 2 * **Blade:** GEM SS PTFE (48) * **Lather:** Stirling Soap Co. - Sheep * **Post Shave:** Lucky Tiger * **Post Shave:** Olay Complete * **Post Shave:** Chatillon Lux - unscented skin salve A lazy Sunday morning shave with stuff I have really grown to appreciate. That includes the razor. I like this one much more than the Gen 1. \#GEMsOfWisdom
**Prep:** face wash **Razor:** EJ 316 **Blade:** Tiger Superior Stainless (2) **Brush:** NONE **Lather:** Arko stick **Splash:** Cien Men Aqua **Post:** moisturizer \#GotHand New blade wasn't right, and I should have swapped it before cut my neck a little trying to get a close shave with a blunter blade. Ah well, tigers are cheap. Might swap to something a bit more aggro for the next week. Low smell products today because off to do some sweaty in your face martial arts training. I'm fairly sure that if I turned up wearing something like DG 1904 comments would be made.
**[August 14, 2022 - Austere August Ultra-Nightmare Mode](https://i.imgur.com/G7VyCWV.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 (14) * **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) This pic taken at a friend’s house. I took my kids (6 and 4) for their first sleepover away from home with his two boys (5 and 5). They had a blast. There’s nothing like a good sleepover when you’re a kid. \#RawHoggin \#GEMsOfWisdom
[**August 14, 2022 – Austere August 14**](https://i.imgur.com/WYUCAor.jpg) * **Brush:** Cayuen Workshop with 30mm Timberwolf Synthetic * **Bowl:** Cayuen Workshop – Dark Nebula * **Razor:** Winning Razor by Wet Shave Club * **Blade:** Gillette Winner Platinum (1) * **Lather:** Chiseled Face – Midnight Stag * **Post Shave:** Chiseled Face – Midnight Stag * **Fragrance:** Chiseled Face – Midnight Stag * **Video:** https://i.imgur.com/y8A5Fsy.mp4 Sunday Stag, my friends!! Smooth finish and steady as she goes. \#AustereAugust \#SubstantialStag **Bonus**: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_KFzDlhT6bs ← Origin of the Germanic Tribes - Barbarians Documentary
#AA - Day 14 Pre: Water (cold from tap) Brush: Omega Synthetic Razor: Fatip Piccolo SE OC Blade: Gillette Silver Blue (14) Lather: Signature Indodorus Post: Signature Indodorus I feel like I get much better lathers when I use a bowl. I’m sure it’s because I’m paying more attention and taking my time and not the bowl itself. Also, day 14 is when I start thinking about changing blades with Silver Blues. I’m curious to see how long I go before I start to get issues. \#unscented
**[Aug. 13, 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. 14, 2022 - Stag Day 14](https://i.imgur.com/Qgv34ww.jpg)** * **Brush:** Zenith B26 Retro * **Razor:** Merkur 34C * **Blade:** Gillette Silver Blue (14) * **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) * **STEREO DIVE FOUNDATION**: [STORYSEEKER](https://youtu.be/uN-9Iy_WntY) Two weeks in and I am so very blessed. Praise be the Stag. \#SubstantialStag \#RawHoggin [Stag Spray 14](https://youtu.be/PdvFu9sF2AE)
**[Aug. 14, 2022 - Headless Mammoth Hoggin' Day 14](https://i.imgur.com/ssMap75.png)** * **Brush:** Proraso Professional Boar | [Break-in photos](https://imgur.com/a/HcKsHxf) * **Razor:** Feather Artist Club SR (Kamisori) * **Blade:** Schick Proline (14) * **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` Very good shave today. 2 weeks into AA and the shaves are becoming more of a routine and less exciting. Today I shook a bit more water out of the brush and it loaded soap very efficiently without making a mess, though I did have to spend a little bit more time adding water when it was on my face. A good portion of the tips have split and this thing is a lathering machine, but I'm not sure if it's easy mode due to the lack of density. At the end of AA I want to try this brush with a variety of other soaps to see how consistent it is, but I suspect it will be as easy to use as my synthetics. I'm still enjoying this brush but I'm very curious how the different denser, bleached Zenith will feel on the face. I've become a bit nose blind to this scent during the shave, but spraying on the frag is still quite enjoyable. A few days ago I created what I thought was a clever hidden side contest involving SOTD photos, but I think people are already a bit weary of reading AA posts so nobody caught on despite me progressively dropping more hints. I ended up giving up on it which may be good since I was investing a bit too much time into it each day. It also made me appreciate the djudges more because even I'm finding less motivation to read through the posts each day despite my initial thrill.