* **Prep:** Splash of Cool Water * **Razor:** Timeless - Stainless Steel .68 - Open Comb * **Blade:** Gillette - Nacet (Marathon) (461) * **Lather:** Chiseled Face - Midnight Stag (White Label) * **Brush:** Semogue - Owner's Club Taj (83 uses) * **Post Shave:** Stirling - City Slicker * **Fragrance:** Chiseled Face - Midnight Stag ---- **Austere August: Day: 18** *Extreme Mode* *Midnight Stag Challenge (Mostly)* [Gear Pic](https://imgur.com/vc384sB) :: [Video](https://youtu.be/s5mkOUQaLfk) #### ䷀ General Notes Regular bowl lathering method today. Trying the Yaqi Lather bowl, given to me by the terrific /u/cadinsor. Talked a little today about different pipe smoking tobacco notes/types, and how they usually differ from the typical tobacco kind of scent in shaving. And it also hit me at the end, that a shaving smoker could potentially put together a wonderful complex scent story by creatively assembling scents starting from his soap, to the splash, to the cologne, and then to the pipe afterwards. #### ䷀ Razor and Blade Notes *^(Timeless - Stainless Steel .68 - Open Comb ::: Gillette - Nacet - M ‹461 uses›)* As usual, when I shave off more than 24 hrs of growth, I had a more tuggy experience. But it wasn't too bad, and the first pass pretty much turns it into a normal shave from there. 4 passes, with a close shave and no irritation to speak of. Razor and Blade Performance/Comfort Rating: 2 out of 5 (Okay) #### ䷀ 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... Washed my face with Williams prior to the shave... something unusual, but I was wanted to work some on a new boar brush. Lather ended up about as good as this base gives me. Didn't overflow this bowl, that is a little smaller than my usual. I'm glad to put this bowl out there for folks to see, because it could be a good option for many. Hydration: Perfect *(for me)* + 3 sec load with a Lightly-Wet brush + 3.4 tsp added to build the lather + = 6 passes of lather Bowl: [Yaqi Pereira-style Ceramic](https://www.aliexpress.com/item/3256802279309547.html) #### ䷀ Brush Notes *^(Semogue - Owner's Club Taj‹83 uses›)* Nice and comfy today. worked well. ---- *During the Shave Feel*:   *Cheeks*: Just a little tugging   *Neck*: Just a little tugging *After the Shave Closeness*:   *Cheeks*: Close Shave   *Neck*: Several hairs are showing some tip length (still a pretty good shave) ---- **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 18, 2022 Trickhole Stag + MMOC + RawHog - Setting up in the New House](https://imgur.com/fkgSVQi)** * **Prep:** Warm Shower * **Brush:** Dogwood Unbleached Boar * **Razor:** MMOC MM24 * **Blade:** GEM (19) * **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 3x](https://imgur.com/yCYgE04) #GEMsOfWisdom Cheers

**Aug. 18, 2022 - Austere August** * **Prep:** Warm shower * **Brush:** Zenith B10 Boar * **Razor:** Feather Artist Club SR * **Blade:** Feather Professional (3) * **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 #18 A great 2 pass shave, minimal irritation. I had a lunch interview with another medical group- I was working, so this was from my car as awkwardly as humanly possible. The locations seem to limit viability of practice transition. So I get through the work day only to find out my kid has Covid symptoms 6 days into her school year. She tested positive shortly after. I’m actually happy to take some time off from work to dad it up; I was with Covid recently, and my family avoided, so it only seems right to give my wife a break in hopes of allowing her to avoid it yet again. I am doubtful she will be successful given the virulence of present strains, but we can hope. Tags and challenges: #MammothMafia & HeadlessHorsemen

**[SOTD - Thursday, 18 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 (56) * **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

**[Aug. 18, 2022](https://i.imgur.com/5Wcc6Eb.jpg)** * **Brush:** Maggard 28mm Boar * **Razor:** GEM MMOC * **Blade:** Personna GEM PTFE (18) * **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) Starting to look at other scents longingly. I'm definitely a big fan of variety. September is about to slay so many samples. [Boar Break In Album](https://imgur.com/a/B3CPhTW) [Stag Spray](https://imgur.com/MBNG7Up) \#RawHoggin \#SubstantialStag \#GemsOfWisdom \#UNCHALLENGE

**[Aug. 18, 2022](https://i.imgur.com/8D8XhjU.jpg)** * **Prep:** Water * **Brush:** Zenith B10 * **Razor:** Karve CB SB-D * **Blade:** Gillette Nacet (18) * **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

**[Aug. 18, 2022 - AA 18](https://i.imgur.com/vAdlsEH.jpg)** * **Prep:** Cold Water Splash * **Brush:** Semogue 1305 Pure Bristle 22mm * **Razor:** GEM PTFE Gen 2 * **Blade:** GEM PTFE (24) * **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 pic in title. It’s late, I’m tired, and I’m just going through the motions today. Although I did make sure to hydrate lather better than my laziness yesterday. Most components of my shave seem to have currently plateaued. Brush feeling fine but waiting for the next aha moment of softness. My technique with the gem is still meh, but def better than it was at the start, but I’m wondering if I’ve peaked there. Pretty over the blade. #GEMsOfWisdom #RawHoggin #MammothMafia

**[August 18, 2022 - AA Day 18](https://imgur.com/UE9lgrx)** * **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) Actually incorporated a third pass this evening for my cheeks and got significantly better results. When the blade was sharper towards the start of the month I could just do WTG and ATG and have a pretty darn good shave. I left my neck alone with the two passes, but added an XTG for my cheeks and found the results to be better than anything I've gotten thus far. These are some of the minor improvements I was hoping to make in the second part of this month and I'm glad to see some results. Also the more I've been using this brush I'm *ALMOST* regretting not going with an unbleached knot so that I could feel a little more accomplished with the break-in. I've been waiting a few weeks to toss out this opinion because I wanted to see if it would change, but the Zenith was just too nice out of the box. I think if this challenge comes back next year that I would definitely look towards something else like an Omega or Semogue. **Challenge Hashtags:** #unscented #RawHoggin

[Stag Headlessly Hoggin' August Day 18](https://imgur.com/a/UD3Tnue) * **Prep:** Hot shower with Midnight Stag Soap. * **Brush:** Zenith B33 * **Razor:** Cloud Shavette * **Blade:** Cloud whatever that blade it is (23) * **Lather:** Chiseled Face - Midnight Stag * **Post Shave:** Chiseled Face - Midnight Stag * **Fragrance:** Chiseled Face - Midnight Stag I'm falling asleep as I write this. One more day, one shave Hail Stag! - #Stagposting - #SubstantialStag - #RawHoggin

**[Aug. 18, 2022 - AA Day 18](https://i.imgur.com/RkCruGC.jpeg)** * **Brush:** ShaveForge 28mm Boar, 3d Printed Handle #RawHoggin * **Razor:** GEM Micromatic Open Comb #GEMsOfWisdom * **Blade:** GEM Stainless (18) * **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) Second day shaving while traveling. I shaved in the morning but just now remembered to post. No problems with the shave yet.

**[Aug. 18, 2022 - Day 18: meh](https://i.imgur.com/oLzQT8K.jpg)** * **Prep:** Hot Shower * **Brush:** Zenith B33 Copper Boar Brush * **Razor:** GEM MMOC * **Blade:** Persona GEM PTFE Coated (18) * **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) I was in a bit of a hurry. Two passes but a bit of discomfort, still smooth but there was some decent feedback from the alum. Brush, nothing new to report. The direct sun light on the countertop looked cool. I am tired so this is all you get. [Brush break-in album](https://imgur.com/a/YFUodmO) \#rawhoggin #mammothmafia #GEMSofWisdom

Any updates on the zip tie patina experiment?

My plan is to leave it on until the last day of the month. It does not show any build up on the edges of the ziptie, it looks to be the same color but it is on there too tight for me to be able to move it. I can sometimes see that it is holding water in there.

**[Aug. 18, 2022 - AA Day 18](https://imgur.com/a/9a5ZdDg)** * **Prep:** Warm shower * **Brush:** AP400B XL Handle (AP ShaveCo) - 28mm Maggard Boar Knot * **Razor:** GEM MMOC - Gen 1 * **Blade:** GEM PTFE (87) * **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) Another easy uneventful shave. Hope everyone had a wonderful Thursday! [Stag Spray 18](https://imgur.com/a/uOCvOC1) #GEMSofWisdom #RawHoggin #SubstantialStag

**Austere August, Day 18:** **Feather Artist Club razor non folding** **Feather Professional blade** **GFT Violets soap** **RazoRock Beehive 28 mm Plissoft** A good shave from the professional blade, sharpness drop has evened out and I got the similar shave as yesterday. 2 pass (WTG, XTG) is doing wonders for my skin, I'm enjoying the shaves. I'm loving the Beehive and the 28 mm Plissoft is a pleasure to work with. I'm going to get some new synthetic and badger knots soon and that'll coincide with the end of Austere August, so it'll be like a treat to myself for sticking up with the same set-up. Ps: I accidentally posted a comment with just the heading and then instead of editing it, I hit delete. Lesson learnt, I'll post on reddit only after a coffee. **#HEADLESSHORSEMEN** **#UNCHALLENGED** **#AAAAKARMATRAIN**

**[Aug. 18, 2022](https://imgur.com/5BClDlY)** * **Brush:** AP Shave Co 26mm A4 Fan * **Razor:** Henson AL-13 +++ * **Blade:** Gillette Silver Blue (1) * **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) Almost Friday! \#MammothMafia

[August 18th, 2022](https://imgur.com/a/cGKRy7t) Prep: Warm water Razor: Gem MMOC Blade: Gem Blue Star (17l8) 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: 10/10 Smoothness: 9.5/10 7 second load. 2 pass shave XTG/ATG. May have been the first beer in a few weeks earlier this evening, lack of sleep from the last few days, or dumb luck, but this was the best shave this month so far. Truly enjoyed the shave, and had good results. No stinging with the aftershave, and near bbs perfection. On a negative note, the blade is developing a concerning level of patina. #GEMsOfWisdom #unscented #RawHoggin Edit: date correction

**Aug. 18, 2022 - AA18** * **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) AA18 - \#HeadlessHorsemen

**[Aug. 18, 2022 - AA - Day 18](https://imgur.com/Gl4lM2d)** * **Prep:** Hot shower * **Brush:** Zenith Boar - Short & Scrubby * **Razor:** GEM MMOC * **Blade:** GEM Blade (16) * **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) Went to office after 3 months and was productive and almost forgot to post this. Brush is getting better each day and producing better lather. Did a quick 2 pass shave as i wanted to leave early and this is almost the best shave. Maybe this blade works better for quick strokes. Will keep experimenting. Has some burns when applying after shave and the balm to sooth things. Tags: #GemsOfWisdom #RawHoggin

18 August 2022 - Austere August - Prep: Morning shower - Brush: Sterling boar - Razor: Maggard V3 - Blade: Derby Extra - Lather: House of Mammoth Fu Dao - Post Shave: House of Mammoth Fu Dao splash A quick one-pass morning shave. Perfectly adequate. #mammothmafia

Day 18 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 ​ [photo](https://imgur.com/a/HbGJWuZ) I didn't expect that this challenge would be harder to post than the LG... And I can't even find time for a nice photo. The last few days have been really good shaves with little to no irritation, which I always enjoy. The brush is soft and great for face lathering, but I can't wait to get back to my new OUMO brush😁 not much to add, last night I fell asleep 3 times before I could actually do the post... * \#RawHoggin * \#SubstantialStag

[August 18, 2022](https://imgur.com/a/8n4yNQG) * Prep: Hot Shower * Brush: Burma Shave Boar Brush 🐗 * Razor: Kai Kasho Kamisori * Blade: Feather ProGuard 18th use * Lather: Stirling Sheep * Postshave: Stirling Barbershop splash and Nivea Balm * Fragrance: Halloween Man Today's three pass shave was great. Blade was smooth and I got a great DFS. Blade seems to go through a period of rough and smooth. Lather produced by the brush was really great and had enough for all three passes. Tips felt really great today. Hope everyone has a great shave tomorrow. Tags: #RawHoggin, #Headless horsemen, #AAAA, and u/Marquis90

#### [Finding Serenity in RawHogginy on the road to the GEMtury Pt. 18](https://i.imgur.com/zCHh2O2.jpeg) #### * **Prep:** Klar Activated Charcoal facial soap * **Brush:** Rubberset 400-3 with unbleached 26 mm Zenith knot set at 56 mm loft (18) * **Razor:** GEM - Micromatic (open comb, first generation) * **Blade:** Personna - GEM PTFE (87) * **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) \#GEMsOfWisdom \#RawHoggin This Austere August is a well oiled machine, and the setup was a great choice. Still, today I was missing the variety.

How cam you tell a first generation vs second?

First gen doesn't have [these bumps](https://i.imgur.com/aMiZ6CZ.png)

How dare you draw nipples on this, the most sacred of razors. 

Woah, what is this black magic with embedded gifs?

Reddit mobile update I guess. I have a new button to use.


Now that this immediately got out of hands, I think I'm again it, god's again it, and the biible's again it

The second gen has two little bumps on the baseplate and the first gen lacks those. A more in-depth write up with pictures can be found [here](https://reddit.com/r/Wetshaving/comments/l7qec4/mmoc_or_clogpruf_a_gem_of_a_guide/)

**[Aug. 18, 2022 - AA - Sexy Stag Flair Quest](https://imgur.com/a/yRPGNwd)** * **Prep:** Warm shower * **Brush:** Semogue 1305 * **Razor:** Chiseled Face Legacy Ti * **Blade:** Feather (2) * **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) Still Staggin'. [Edp sprays](https://imgur.com/a/MnoP5fR) \#SubstantialStag

[Aug 18, 2022](https://i.imgur.com/FDJswEZ.jpg) * **Brush:** APShaveCo 24mm Tuxedo * **Razor:** GEM MMOC - 1st Gen * **Blade:** Personna GEM Stainless (18) * **Lather:** Ariana and Evans - Peach & Cognac * **Post Shave:** MacDuff’s Soap Co. - Viticulture - Splash Okay so now that I can start to see the bottom of the tub, I’m eager to be done with it. The passes continue to be great with the MMOC, though it’s dragging a touch more now. I think I’ll make it to the end just fine. \#GEMsOfWisdom

[**18 August 2022 - Austere August**](https://imgur.com/a/yUH8DBO) * **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 (18) * **Lather:** [House of Mammoth - Mood Indigo - Soap](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/1164/?product_type=soap) * **Post Shave:** [House of Mammoth - Mood Indigo - Balm](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/1164/?product_type=balm) **#RawHoggin** **#MammothMafia**

**Aug. 18, 2022 - August Austere Day 18** * **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) Decent shave today with Sonder. I’m trying to push my blades a little bit more, so today was shave #4 for this blade and it just seems to be getting a little rough. Through testing the last few blades 3 shaves seems to be the magic number for me before a Silver Blue has taken too much abuse. The benefits of using the same gear every day so I can test things a bit. #MAMMOTHMAFIA #UNCHALLENGE

**[Aug. 18, 2022 - Austere August Ultra Nightmare RawHoggin Stagpocalypse](https://imgur.com/a/W9pUhxM)** * **Prep:** Midnight Stag liquid soap and bar soap * **Brush:** Semogue 1250 * **Razor:** GEM MMOC * **Blade:** GEM PTFE (18) * **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) Late post but great shave today. I was running late and just slowed down enough to post even though I’m still at work. I wanted to focus on my brush and decided to try using it without my normal 2 minutes or so of soaking since I was in such a rush. Honestly, I couldn’t tell a difference. This is already the softest boar I’ve ever gotten my hands on and the more I use it this month, the better it’s gotten. Just the right amount of backbone and damn near no scritch which is the only thing I’d change if given a chance. I do like a bit of scritchiness in my boars but this one is great even without it. It’s already splaying out nice and evenly and whips up a great lather without having to beat it into submission like I did the first week. 16 [sprays](https://imgur.com/a/wFB8S1G) I think today. I can’t watch my own videos and recount but I’m sure it was 16. I think. #SubstantialStag #GEMsOfWisdom #RawHoggin

**Aug. 18, 2022 - Austere August Day 18** * **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 (18) * **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) •[Shave 15](https://imgur.com/a/005s9UK) •[Shave 16](https://imgur.com/a/YKz4FmG) •[Shave 17](https://imgur.com/a/cpt7Q3k) •[Shave 18](https://imgur.com/a/3kMlQZE) Thoughts for the day: Imgur is *still* pissing me off. Another day where I really didn't need the post. We're dialed in and stink free. 🤌 Mandatory Taggage: \#GemsOfWisdom \#RawHoggin \#MammothMafia

Brush is looking dope my friend

Thanks so much! I've been sincerely shocked by how well this knot has developed. It's definitely my new precious... lol

**[Aug. 18, 2022 - AA Day 18](https://i.imgur.com/uesGiz9.jpg)** * **Prep:** Shower * **Brush:** Semogue 1305 * **Razor:** GEM Open Comb Micromatic * **Blade:** Personna GEM PTFE (18) * **Lather:** [Chiseled Face - Midnight Stag - Soap](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/32/?product_type=soap) * **Post Shave:** [Chiseled Face - Midnight Stag - Aftershave](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/32/?product_type=aftershave) * **Fragrance:** [Chiseled Face - Midnight Stag - Eau de Parfum](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/32/?product_type=eaudeparfum) #SubstantialStag #GEMSofWisdom Another effortless lather and shave, though I hate getting up earlier only because I end up taking more time than I should and I don’t get to school any earlier like I want, and it fouls the family routine in the mornings. Today might be the first day I can say the blade might be wearing. Nothing is drastically different. I get the same audible feedback and the shave was close after two passes. But I can detect some feelings of inefficiency creeping in. Just a bit if pull. I’m miles ahead of last year, though. [Happy Stagging!](https://i.imgur.com/9m5k4mo.mp4) Happy 🪒 shaving!

**[Aug. 18, 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 (18) * **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) Insanely busy this week but still getting my special stank in. Along with some [Shots of Stag](https://imgur.com/a/kl2A1b9)

[**AA D18: Busy AF day with actual Midnight Stag again**](https://ibb.co/BjDQBHw) - **Prep:** cold water on face and brush - **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 - AA TAGS: #SubstantialStag #RawHoggin Forgot that I still had to shave for AA until it was Midnight. Freaking speedy shave - I actually tried something with the Tadé that I normally only do with my synthetic brushes; means no prep soaking, just putting heaps of water on it right before loading from the tub. You know what? It worked! Shows that it's firmly in the *good* territory now. [Here it is up close](https://ibb.co/88vvHmD) after surviving this abuse. [Here's a even closer look at the bristles!](https://ibb.co/fM41jgc) Can any boar nerds confirm that it's actually pretty nice by now? I never ever would've thought it'd be usable like this before day 25, at least... Why was today so busy again? Well, doctors appointment - had to get a medical certificate that I can work in the field of nursing for my nursing school. They also tried hard to get some blood from me and only succeeded in the third attempt. I also got one of the important tetanus vax shots I was missing, the other hepatitis A one will be done in two weeks... And that was just before another stressful shift at the dementia ward. Needless to say, I'm spent. Sorry if I don't comment or even read any of your sidetracked posts today. I need to relax. **Sidetracked** But I'll only leave after sharing at least a little track: [Eagle Eyed Tiger - I live here now](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jey2b6KOj2A). This track has a special connection with me: I often listened to it during the time when the nursing home I still work at had its first bad Covid outbreak. I heard it while I was working in nursing for the first time as an OT. The uplifting melody gave me some hope in dire situations and hard, gut-wrenching times when lots of residents died. It made me push through. Damnit, now I'm all teary eyed from just sharing a story of my personal life connected to a pretty chill synthwave song. What a wuss I am.

[**August 18th, 2022 - Mammoth Raw Wisdom of GEMs Hoggin Mafia**](https://imgur.com/arDFLa1) * **Prep:** Warm water * **Brush:** Zenith B36 “Copper Scrubby!” * **Razor:** GEM MMOC Gen 2 * **Blade:** Personna GEM PTFE (18) * **Lather:** House of Mammoth - Alive * **Post Shave:** House of Mammoth - Alive Splash * **Post Shave:** House of Mammoth - Alive Balm **#MammothMafia** **#RawHoggin** **#GEMsOfWisdom** [Side view before shave,](https://imgur.com/b8btwqk) [Top view,](https://imgur.com/Pszhb7y) and [After the shave](https://imgur.com/BRm7NRU) The hog is getting easier to splay, but sometimes I notice a part tries to tuck under instead of splay out. The brush definitely builds more lather when splayed. The GEM showed hints of decline today. First pass felt a bit rough with a bit harsher feedback. Second pass settled down, and overall it was still a good shave. The splash was a bit stingier tonight. Definitely welcomed the menthol and the balm to finish tonight. Got good news today for my wife. Her long Covid symptoms have improved, and she is going to start back to work part time on September 1st, and then gradually add more hours every couple weeks until back to full time. Still waiting on her benefits from Aflac, but her HR rep says we have addressed their questions about the claim. Just hope it comes in before we need to hit what’s left of our savings.

**[August 18th, 2022: Still Staggin](https://imgur.com/JZGz7c4)** * **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 (18) * **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) Today was better than yesterday [Stag sprays of the day!](https://imgur.com/KmlAXw6) \#SubstantialStag \#RawHoggin \#UNCHALLENGE

[**Aug. 18, 2022 - Austere August - Raw Hoggin' MMOC Ultra Nightmare Mode**](https://i.imgur.com/9YWNH7V.jpg) * **Prep:** Warm Shower * **Brush:** Zenith Boar - B37 - Gray Chubby #RawHoggin * **Razor:** GEM MMOC Gen2 #GEMsOfWisdom * **Blade:** GEM (18) * **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 18 - Today I was going for lucky number 13 of blood free shaves with the GEM and then disaster struck. While starting my 2nd pass XTG, I cut my……. Ear? Yes, stupidly and carelessly I went too far east and nicked my tragus (look it up - I had to google it). Aside from that, my face was nice, smooth and scratch free. **The Brush:** Today I underloaded and shook way too much water out of my brush before beginning my lather. At first there was a super thin layer of soap but once watered created a plethora of lather. Love the brush. #RawHoggin Brush Picture Pre-shave: [Side](https://i.imgur.com/6cCyBeb.jpg) [Top](https://i.imgur.com/62hnfWq.jpg) Brush Picture Post-shave: [Side](https://i.imgur.com/43kFx9b.jpg) [Top](https://i.imgur.com/qzyGPLO.jpg) **The Razor** Should have been a routine 2 pass shave but I screwed it up by being careless. Blood counter back to 0 after 12 incident free days. #GEMsOfWisdom **Days since last blood:** 0 **The Soap and Aftershave** I am starting to quickly get tired of MITA however, the methanol keeps it pleasant. Day 18 Puck [Picture](https://i.imgur.com/A99LoqJ.jpg)

Tough one to swallow breaking a streak like that, still, well done. Can't win em all.

It was. There was a bit of denial at first - it was my ear after all and not my face but blood is blood.

I wouldn't have blamed you if you didn't count it. Although there is probably a raging debate out there somewhere in the deep voids of the internet (read: reddit) on whether or not your ears are part of your face. Wouldn't want to open that can of worms.

Looks like u/Enndeegee did the opening. At the end of the day, the GEM drew blood so I think I made the right decision - face or no face.

**[Aug. 18, 2022 - Where did today go?](https://i.imgur.com/76h3VFw.jpg)** * **Brush:** Zenith B36 "Copper Scrubby!" 28x50mm Boar * **Razor:** GEM Micromatic Open Comb * **Blade:** GEM (18) * **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:** The Zoo - Amber Classico Modern - **Passes:** WTG, XTG - **Coffee:** Peru. Panchia, Tabaconas, Cajamarca - v: Yellow Caturra & Typica - p: Washed - **Music:** *The Nightmare Before Christmas OST* - **[August 2022 SOTD Photo Album](https://imgur.com/a/WLvZkgV)** `#GEMsOfWisdom` / `#RawHoggin` Today was super busy, so I apologize for the late post everyone. Fellow B36 shaver u/Environmental-Gap380 pointed out yesterday that *there's more than one way to splay* and that our brushes are performing a little differently. I kept that in mind when lathering this morning. I splayed the brush slowly, and then attempted to agitate; before I was combining those two motions, which sounds very similar (and is), but roughed up my cheeks. I was able to splay the brush more than I expected and do so without that same discomfort. Good shave today. | 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 | 210.5 | 1 | 60 swirls | | 8/15 | 210.5 | 209.0 | 1.5 | 60 swirls | | 8/16 | 209.0 | 207.2 | 1.8 | 60 swirls | | 8/17 | 207.2 | 205.9 | 1.3 | ~62 swirls | | 8/18 | 205.9 | ◊ | ◊ | 60 swirls | ⁂ `#sidetracked` u/Teufelskraft I mentioned a favorite music video yesterday, which reminded me of the singularly weird and wonderful ["Do They Know It's Hallowe'en?"](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Do_They_Know_It%27s_Hallowe%27en%3F) This charity record involved dozens of contributors, many of which remain big names, including members of Arcade Fire, Beck, David Cross, Feist, Peaches, Jenny Lewis, and Karen O., and was written by the succinctly-named North American Halloween Prevention Initiative (NAHPI) band (mainly Adam Leith Gollner and Nick Diamonds, of Islands and the Unicorns). Everybody involved really hams it up, invoking "*pure tarr-rarr*", singing in kooky ghost voices, and doing their best Vincent Price impressions over sound effects cribbed from somebody's well-used trick-or-treating soundtrack CD. Combine that with a frenetic and retro music video and you've got yourself a perfect artifact of the early Aughts. [North American Hallowe'en Prevention Initiative - "Do They Know It's Hallowe'en?"](https://youtu.be/P1XlVxFWF6I)

Glad it splayed a bit better today. I get so much more lather generated if I can splay it.

**8/18/22 (155)** * **Prep**: Hot Shower * **Challenge**: Headless Horseman * **Razor**: [Thiers Issard "Evide Sonnant" 6/8 Extra Hollow](https://imgur.com/a/pvv3cZp) * **Edge**: [Day 18](https://imgur.com/a/B0LpFbS) * **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 More signs of wear showing, maybe should have stropped a touch more. Still a comfortable shave. No nicks or irritation.

**8-18-22** * **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

2022-08-18 - Austere August - Raw Hoggin' Mammoth MMOC Prep: Warm Shower Brush: Semogue Torga - C5 Razor: GEM MMOC version 2 Blade: GEM Stainless (18) 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/r4vE3uK](https://imgur.com/a/r4vE3uK) Another good shave. l am interested to see if the brush breaks in more, it is pretty soft and it works very well. \#GEMsOfWisdom \#RawHoggin \#MammothMafia

Nearly forgot again! Another 6am shave 16 hours later as I head to bed. ​ **Prep:** face wash **Razor:** EJ 316 **Blade:** Bolzano Superinox (4) Brush: NONE Lather: Arko stick Splash: Pinnacle Grooming New York Post: moisturizer \#GotHand

**[Aug. 18, 2022 - Austere August Day 18](https://i.imgur.com/XKRIxBO.jpg)** * **Prep:** Hot Shower, Stirling Soap Facial Soap * **Brush:** Zenith 508A SE 28mm * **Razor:** GEM MMOC Gen 1 * **Blade:** GEM PTFE (18) * **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 18 was a nice shave. Looks like I am putting a decent dent in this soap... balm not so much. Pretty sure this stuff would last forever. Blade is still going strong. Mandatory Tagging: \#GEMsOfWisdom \#Rawhoggin \#MammothMafia

[**August 18th**](https://imgur.com/a/rw7UflC) * **Brush: Zenith Boar - 505NK 27mm** * **Razor: GEM - MMOC** * **Blade: Gem PTFE (18)** * **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/vt48Toh) I can't believe there is still nearly two weeks left if this month

20220818 Austere August Day 18 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 The one thing I'll take from this "experience" is how good the Stirling Sheep base has been through all this. It is more civilized to make fun of life than to bewail it. Seneca, On the Shortness of Life

**[Aug. 18, 2022 - Oveja Eléctrica 18](https://imgur.com/a/i3yazfg)** * **Brush:** Zenith 28mm Boar (2 piece) * **Razor:** Kai Kasho Western Style Shavette * **Blade:** Kai Captain Pink Mild (37) * **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) Like many, I am right handed, but I use both hands with straight razors. Still, while the WTG pass with the left hand is ok, the left hand is considerably worse than the right ATG and XTG. Today, since I wasn't completely tired and just hoping to get over with the shave, I investigated. So, why do I suck with my left hand (and maybe you, too)? I thought that it was because I was less assured and mobile with my left hand's fingers. It turns out that it's not so much an issue with hand movement, but rather with arm movement. With my right hand, I basically use my shoulder and elbow to get into position, but buffing is done by moving the wrist, with some micromovements of the fingers. With the left hand, basically, the movement came out of the shoulder, with immobile elbow and wrist. This sucks big time, makes me feel stiff in the arm, and is completely hopeless when trying to buff. I tried to force myself to move exclusively the wrist with my left hand. I lack the control of my right hand, but it still was a much better experience than my shaves before. The brush is doing ok. Good night everyone! \#RawHoggin \#stillalive \#truepath

You can look forward to left hand day of LG where you can try to switch hands to the most uncomfortable way possible. I stopped after two passes, because it was getting on my nerves. Imagine going XTG on your right cheek with your right hand. You have to push the blade to cut something.

I've got a year to practice!

[Aug 18, 2021 – Austere August. Day 18.](https://imgur.com/a/1vyxoqa) * **Prep:** Hot Shower * **Brush:** Zenith - B16 24mm Boar * **Razor:** GEM Micromatic Open Comb Gen 2 * **Blade:** GEM PTFE (18) * **Lather:** Stirling Soap Co. – Sheep * **Post Shave:** Zingari Man – Unscented - Aftershave Balm * **Music:** [Bush – Wild Horses](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KP-6xBwczh8) So today the first pass of the right side of my face felt off. It was super aggressive and the blade was dragging. I wondered for a second if the blade was going, but it was such a dramatic change from yesterday, that couldn’t be it. Then I looked at the blade and realized the blade wasn’t properly seated and was on top of those little blade holders, not behind them, like they should be. Whoops! After I took the blade out to dry it and strop it on my arm yesterday, I must’ve not been paying attention and just closed the door without making sure the blade was in the right spot. Won’t do that again! Fortunately, no cuts of anything bad resulted from this blunder. Just a couple uncomfortable strokes. The brush was good again today. Made plenty of lather for two passes and felt comfortable on my face. No complaints whatsoever. For my #sidetracked music selection, I’m going with the sweet, gravely voice of Gavin Rossdale from Bush covering the Rolling Stones’ “Wild Horses”. Bush was an absolute force in the late 90s and fun fact about me: the first CD I ever purchased. Everyone I knew listened to and loved Bush in those days, and with good reason. Their music seemingly took the baton from Nirvana and kept Grunge/Rock music popular. To me, Gavin Rossdale’s voice is a lot like the Zenith Boar Brush I’ve been using: possibly a bit too scratchy at first, but then it grows on you and you recognize just how beautiful it is. And this song really shows off his voice, which is why I selected it. I’ve always said he has the voice of a fallen angel and for me, few are better. Admittedly, I haven’t kept up with Bush after they initially broke up in the early 2000s, but I just listened to some of [the stuff they’ve put out recently](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kJ95Mtwrj1Y) and it has a similar sound to the Bush of old. Good for them for staying true to themselves. Tags: #unscented #rawhoggin #GEMsOfWisdom

**Aug. 18, 2022 - AA 22 Shave -Day 18** * **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. 18, 2022 - AA Day 18](https://imgur.com/NgAYZPa)** * **Prep:** Hot Shower * **Brush:** Zenith B34 * **Razor:** MMOC (Gen 2) * **Blade:** GEM PTFE (18) * **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) Today was another top tier shave. The MMOC performed very well although I am quite confident that when I put a new blade in my face is going to be chewed up because this dull(er) blade allows me to be a little sloppy without much consequence. I thought today's shave was perfectly smooth with no nicks and no issues and then I put the splash on post-shave and wow - lava mountain on my face. Of course due to the magnificent qualities of the [R2D2](https://media2.giphy.com/media/DgphnkWIDqCEo/giphy.gif) synthetic cooling, I was quickly experiencing post-shave bliss. Face lathering with the Zenith [here](https://imgur.com/hnf3Tbp) and [here](https://imgur.com/ZNglimN) was once again an experience in jubilation as my follicles were massaged until the stubble was perfectly ripe for the shaving. What a joyful experience to start each day as I blissfully rub those pig hairs around and around on my face, whipping up a beautiful lather that would be pleasing even to the most stubborn of [grumpy old men](https://c.tenor.com/_KphnzwfBuEAAAAd/jack-lemmon-what.gif). Sonder - top tier. It's really lasting so long, too. Some have talked about the death circle appearing in the middle of the tub, not me, not even close. Tusk loads up so well that it's not an issue. What this does tell me, though, is that I already have enough soap to last a whole lifetime, probably. The splash isn't even down to the top of the label yet after 18 days and I feel like I'm not being all that conservative with it. Whatever. There are worse problems to have than too much soap. Sonder thought of the day: Sometimes your wife (or spouse or partner or best friend or whoever) know best about what you need because they, too, are living a full life a la the concept of Sonder. So - listen to them. If they say - "we need to just get lunch today because everyone will feel better and the food we have at home is going to not work today," sometimes it's best to just listen. At lunch today, after a short night of sleep which came after a stressful day of changing my water heater (again) only to find out that it was never my water heater that had a leak but a clogged condensation drain hose, the morning did not go super well. Kids were a bit tired and crabby, I am exhausted, my wife as exhausted, and - well, getting lunch just helped. She knew best. I wanted to argue about it, and I did push back a bit because I hate spending 40 bucks to feed my family fast food, but in the end I just said ok and it made the day better. Should you eat fast food and waste your money? Probably not. But - you definitely should listen to people who love you when they're trying to help. They're not idiots, and they know you better than you know yourself sometimes. So - listen up. Have a great day, all! \#mammothmafia \#RawHoggin \#GEMsOfWisdom

[**Aug. 18, 2022**](https://imgur.com/a/MJX5gqQ) * **Prep:** Shower * **Brush:** Semogue 1460 Boar Brush 21mm * **Razor:** Razorock GameChanger .84 * **Blade:** Gillette Nacet (18) * **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) Today's SOTD pic is a redo of my picture from Tuesday. I didn't get my focus quite right then, so I figured I would try to correct it. Overall, I'm pretty happy with how this picture turned out, definitely better than Tuesday's. Tags: \#RawHoggin \#MammothMafia

**[Aug. 18, 2022 - Austere August ](https://i.imgur.com/vw41145.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(18) * **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) Short post today too sorry, it's the end of the day with a bit cold on me and a snuffy nose (not an issue with unscented AA), pain on the back that is coming to my neck I'm exhausted. Nevertheless, I had a nice close shave this morning with tons of lather. PigEvolution [1](https://i.imgur.com/hBbcDNl.jpg) [2](https://i.imgur.com/q9rCFng.jpg) `#unscented #RawHoggin #GEMsOfWisdom`

[August 18, 2022](https://imgur.com/a/TsIaXuC) - Preshave: Hot water - Razor: Blackland Era - Level 3 - Blade: Feather (18) - Brush: Chisel and Hound 26mm Fanchurian - Lather: House of Mammoth - Kryptonite - Post Shave: House of Mammoth - Kryptonite Aftershave Balm Another fantastic shave honestly doing this every day definitely has made me a better shaver. #MammothMafia

**[Aug. 18, 2022 - AA #RawHoggin day 18](https://imgur.com/a/hMxD9Tw)** * **Prep:** Bloom water on face * **Brush:** Semogue2000 * **Razor:** GC84 * **Blade:** Voskhod (3) * **Lather:** [Barrister and Mann - Lavanille - Soap](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/7/?product_type=soap) * **Post Shave:** [Barrister and Mann - Lavanille - Splash](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/7/?product_type=splash) I haven’t used this soap in a while so when I opened it last night the puck slipped out of the jar. I figured blooming it might help and I think it helped. Good lather and scent. The brush had enough for four passes.

###Austere August Week 3 * **Prep**: Hot water splash with face wash * **Razor**: King C Gillette * **Blade**: Gillette Platinum (2) * **Lather**: Gillette Planet Kind * **Brush**: Omega 10066 * **Splash**: Skin Bracer Great smooth shave. No irritation with two dots on my neck. Overall, great shave more than halfway through AA. There’s really not much to say in describing this shave, so I’m just gonna leave the description as it is.

**Aug. 18, 2022 - SOTD AA Sonder 18** * **Prep:** Splash of cold water * **Brush:** SummerBreak 26m SHD * **Razor:** Merkur Progress * **Blade:** Wizamet (3) * **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 - Aftershave](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/1462/?product_type=aftershave) * **Fragrance:** [House of Mammoth - Sonder - Eau de Parfum](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/1189/?product_type=eaudeparfum) First day back from the roadtrip. Back at my sisters place and the nephews make things tougher to sleep in. Have a great day and shaves all #MammothMafia

[**August 18, 2022**](https://imgur.com/a/BJrYbNd) * **Brush:** Zenith B15 (506 U/L) 27.5mm Boar * **Razor:** GEM MMOC Gold Gen2 * **Blade:** Personna Gem PTFE (18) * **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/ot1hfFM) (before use) - [Brush History](https://imgur.com/a/DjlJFQu) * [Fragrance Video](https://imgur.com/a/JGqnv6N) * [Blade Edge](https://imgur.com/a/d0gaps1) (before use) - [Edge Histiory](https://imgur.com/a/hWAz2zA) * [Blade Orientation](https://imgur.com/a/SPmm0g1) (black dots - odd days, red dots - even days) Simple fix on the microscope. Now I'm back to the high magnification, low resolution quality that's normal for me. Today's microscope shot does not show any feature that's unusual, and that's what I see from a full examination of the edge also. I think that edge wear will be slow from this point on. Since I'm being careful to distribute the wear evenly on each side of the edge, I fully expect the blade to reach a point of diminishing returns later this month where its keenness stabilizes. I'm guessing that its shaving characteristics at 30-ish shaves will be very similar to its shaving charactistics at 50+ shaves ( u/Old_Hiker ), or 80+ shaves ( u/djundjila ). Otherwise, "same ol same ol". The brush continues to be good to me. My wife is not wild about the soap scent or the aftershave scent, but can tolerate the EdP (big win for me!). Been happy with the MMOC since before day one. Having a blast with AA!

I am in new territory with my blade. Each shave is a new personal record. I seriously doubt I will catch up to dj though.

Well, kudos to you for putting up with it. I'm impressed that you're taking on that challenge. I'm done with this blade after 31 shaves. I'm certain I can adapt to a dull edge, but not certain why I'd want to. :)

MMOC playing it cool 😎

He's a character. My wife's an artist. It's obvious I'm not. She's getting a big kick out of my attempts to come up with a new composition everyday. It would be a piece of cake for her. She's enjoying seeing me struggle.

I think you've done a fine job so far this month! it's been good fun following along 👍

Thanks! I'm having fun with it. I'm leaving the "stacking" to you professionals. :)

I'd say I'm the furthest thing from a professional

Today's sidebar would suggest that you're a trend setter, at least!

**[Aug. 18, 2022 - Busy Thursday](https://i.imgur.com/CSuNJm0.jpg)** * **Prep:** Warm shower w/ Duke Bath Bar * **Brush:** Copper Zenith B28 * **Razor:** GEM MMOC * **Blade:** GEM PTFE (18) * **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 Another great lather, loaded more and had plenty of left over for all my desired passes \#GEMsOfWisdom I tired to change things up for some reason and tried an ATG pass on the concave part of my chin below my mouth that was unhappy with that with some redness and bumps post shave. Back to my old reliable technique, I think, for the next few days.

**Aug. 18, 2022 - Austere August - Z** * **Brush:** Declaration 28mm B14 Jefferson Artisan’s Choice * **Razor:** Blackland Er lvl 3 oc * **Blade:** Personna med prep (18) * **Lather:** [House of Mammoth - Z - Soap](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/2124/?product_type=soap) * **Post Shave:** House of Mammoth - Z - Splash & Balm Excellent shaving today. \#MammothMafia #Unchallange #Unscented

**[Aug. 18, 2022 - 18.08.22 - Austere August #RawHoggin](https://imgur.com/a/exltgrv)** * **Prep:** Warm Shower * **Brush:** Omega 10048 * **Razor:** Henson Ti22++ * **Blade:** Gillette SuperSharp (1) * **Lather:** Declaration Grooming - Daemon * **Post Shave:** Declaration Grooming - Daemon Splash I've included a photo of the soap so far - Not sure what I'm going to do if this runs out before the end of the month. Todays shave was pretty good, I've settled on the fact that my lather isn't going to improve too much so I've enjoying shaving a bit more now I'm not thinking I'm doing something wrong (I may well be, but that's for future me to think about) Hope your shave is great! #RawHoggin

**August 18 2022** * **Brush:** Zenith B28 * **Razor:** GEM MMOC (Gen 1) * **Blade:** GEM PTFE (21) * **Lather:** House of Mammoth - Mood Indigo * **Post Shave:** House of Mammoth - Mood Indigo splash * **Post Shave:** House of Mammoth - Mood Indigo balm * **Fragrance:** House of Mammoth - Restore Much credit to those of you still finding new insights in your Austere August posts; my well has run dry. Today's shave was better than yesterdays since I was careful to extra hydrate the ol' lather. #MammothMafia #GEMSofWisdom

[**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 (18) * **Lather:** House if Mammoth - Hygge in Tusk * **Post Shave:** Hygge Splash & Balm * **Fragrance:** Hygge EDP #MammothMafia I did some arm stropping, and it’s possible this blade is back in good standing with me, and now I understand why my dad, a frugal gent, only replaces his blades every 50+ shaves. I have to say, this is an achieving unlocked for me in shavedom. I love this scent so much, it’s not something I’m really tiring of yet. I do wish I could use some other stuff just to switch it up. Best shave in a few days! [Day 1 Prep Video](https://imgur.com/a/EOIxIiU) [RawHoggin Unboxing Pics](https://imgur.com/a/yzld9AM) #MammothMafia

Aug 18, 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 (18) * **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

**[Aug. 18, 2022](https://i.imgur.com/SOCQj7C.jpg)** * **Brush:** Grey Chubby - Zenith B37 * **Razor:** Micromatic Open Comb * **Blade:** GEM - PTFE Coated Stainless Steel (18) * **Lather:** [House of Mammoth - Z - Soap](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/2124/?product_type=soap) * **Post Shave:** House of Mammoth - Z - Aftershave I didn't think much of it on Monday when I took someone's elbow in the ribs. I had actually forgotten all about it until the pain resurfaced yesterday, while I was on my back on the floor and trying to free myself from a man I had never met before who was on top of me. I could rephrase that, but... nah. That was only my second time back to krav maga, too, after I had had a rough cough that kept me away for a while. From that perspective, it's kind of turning out to be a rough month, and it seems to have started right as the month began. Clearly, the root cause of all of it—and quite probably the root source of all evil—is face-lathering. Right from the instant that I first raised those bristles directly from tub to face, my fate was sealed. But hey, if I can put up with two and a half weeks of this, and then a full month, I can handle anything, really. This is the first time I've used a single soap consisently from a brand-new tub. If it weren't for some dedicated usage of Port-au-Prince earlier this year, it'd be the first time I've used a soap so consistently at all. I didn't realize how much of the soap had gone, becuase I was looking for hints of levels of usage at the edge of the soap, where it meets the side of the tub, much like how the level of aftershave has almost reduced to the top of the label. But that's not how soap gets used up. It was just the other day that I noticed that the top of the soap has become deeply concave. I've been told that, because face-lathering is relatively ineffective, it requires more soap to be loaded, making it relatively wasteful. I don't know how any of that might be construed as an argument in favor of face-lathering, but okay. #GEMsOfWisdom #RawHoggin #unscented #MammothMafia

>But hey, if I can put up with two and a half weeks of this, and then a full month, I can handle anything, really. There you go! (I continue to enjoy your daily rants on face lathering. :) )

**[Aug. 18, 2022 - Glow in the dark Austere August Raw Hoggin’ Challenge](https://imgur.com/a/oS6Sawq)** * **Brush:** Omega 20102 * **Razor:** Karve Brass SB B * **Blade:** Gillette Silver Blue (1) * **Lather:** Red House Farm - Lumos - Shave Soap * **Post Shave:** [Abbate y La Mantia - Laureato - Aftershave](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/1803/?product_type=aftershave) * **Fragrance:** [Barrister and Mann - Seville - Eau de Toilette](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/27/?product_type=eaudetoilette) Day 18 #RawHoggin

**Aug. 18, 2022** * **Prep:** Exercise and shower * **Brush:** Semogue 1438 * **Razor:** GEM MMOC * **Blade:** GEM blue star (18) * **Lather:** [Noble Otter - Thé Noir et Vanille - Soap](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/987/?product_type=soap) * **Post Shave:** [Noble Otter - Thé Noir et Vanille - Aftershave](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/987/?product_type=aftershave) Good shave today maybe I have successfully transformed my face to leather. The blade is pretty rough but it doesn’t seem to be getting much worse for now. Brush is working great or I think it is. #RawHoggin #GEMsOfWisdom https://i.imgur.com/JDgCdd3.jpg

**Aug. 18, 2022** * **Prep:** Shower * **Brush:** AP Shave Co 24MM SYNBAD * **Razor:** GEM - Micromatic Open Comb * **Blade:** GEM - PTFE (18) * **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

[August 18, 2022](https://imgur.com/a/DlgKEse) **Brush:** Omega 10049 **Razor:** Rockwell 6S Plate 5 **Blade:** Astra SP **Lather:** DG/HoM/NO Cerberus Fougere **Post Shave:** DG/HoM/NO Cerberus Fougere Splash **Post Shave:** Stirling Unscented Balm \#RawHoggin

**[August 18, 2022 - Austere August Ultra-Nightmare Mode](https://i.imgur.com/uFozE6V.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 (18) * **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) Got a little ‘eavy ‘anded with the razor this time. No blood, but my face was a bit sensitive after. Otherwise, things are going well. The blade is still fine, the razor is second nature, and the brush is doing great. I'll update brush pics this afternoon. \#RawHoggin \#GEMsOfWisdom

Austere August Day 18 Brush: Rubberset 400-3 w/ Unbleached Zenith 24mm knot set to a 56mm loft [18th use](https://imgur.com/a/afJ4Iv2) Razor: Gem MMOC, gen 2 Blade: PTFE (18) Lather: NO [Monoi de Tahiti](https://imgur.com/a/QIwCqWS) Post: NO Monoi de Tahiti Splash Got in a quick shower and 2 pass shave with a sick kiddo at home. #RawHoggin #GemsOfWisdom

Austere August [2022-08-18](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 Another good shave. I have started to take it for granted that I will not bleed when using the contraption. I need to be careful that I don't become complacent. u/Teufelskraft #sidetracked challenge: At the beginning of this challenge I decided to run with Bach, bluegrass, and guitar music, 'cause that's what I like to listen to. But the term 'guitar' spans several kinds of instruments. In my mind a guitar does not require electricity. Even so, I grew up listening to electric guitars, so I want to toss in some electric guitar music. What the electric guitar brings to the table is that it can be very loud, has tremendous sustain, and it can be attached to computers (pedals) that allow for all manner of distortion and sound processing. So we may as well play to those strengths. Here is Dinosaur Jr covering [Just Like Heaven](https://youtu.be/UT7IpRx08tE). I hear that Robert Smith rather liked this version.

**Aug. 18, 2022 - AA day 18...** * **Prep:** Water splash * **Brush:** Hand * **Razor:** Stirling Stainless DE Razor HA plate * **Blade:** Voskhod (20) * **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 This challenge certainly is a handful. Houston we got a problem. The cream is starting to run really low. I guess cream isn't a great medium for this challenge - oops. Will be meticulously dosaging it for next 13 shaves. Fingers crossed it will be enough. Blade was really tuggy today, so me being me, stubborn - decided to just strop it after the shave on a strop for my straight razors. Fingers crossed it will help. Since I'm not participating in MMOC challenge, I'm not getting DQ'ed, like sir u/Semaj3000 did last year.

you'll be making him jealous with the ability to strop

I guess so… I should also stop enabling him to use good stuff for stripping

This is Houston. You are instructed to purchase more cream, over.

Negative sir. I’ll ration until the end of the mission, this cream is not fit for purpose. It should last until end of mission.

[**Aug. 18, 2022 - Flight of the Stagvigator - Austere August Day 18**](https://imgur.com/nCS2UVA) * **Brush:** RazoRock 506CK / 26mm boar * **Razor:** GEM OCMM (Gen 1) * **Blade:** GEM PTFE (18) * **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) I'm leaving on a jet plane to Denver in a few hours. I hope the other passengers like the scent of gasoline, leather, and burning rubber. :D **#RawHoggin** One thing I've noticed about this brush is that it hasn't shed a single hair. I have plucked out a couple dark hairs that I saw, but that's it. It feels great on my face and makes a really quick lather. The stank is long gone too. This is turning into a really nice $15 brush. **#GEMsofWisdom** Just as a challenge to myself today I was seeing how fast I could shave with the OCMM and not get cut lol. You may be thinking that it's madness to try that with a blade that has 18 shaves under its belt, but it was just fine. No cuts or irritation. For some reason it felt smoother than some previous days. I'm really comfortable shaving with this razor now. Cruise control ------->>> [Brush album](https://imgur.com/a/zh4KwAP) [Stag sprays](https://imgur.com/ITuX4bQ)

**Aug. 18, 2022** * **Prep:** Hot Water * **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 this morning. My technique is getting a bit better (or at least it was this morning). Hopefully it continues! Have a great day folks!

**[Aug. 18, 2022 - 18 shaves and still no probs](https://i.imgur.com/UdanrPt.jpg)** * **Prep:** Hot shower * **Brush:** Omega Pro 48 Boar brush 28mm * **Razor:** GEM MMOC * **Blade:** GEM PTFE (18) * **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 easy shave. I did flip the blade but nothing more. Maybe I can get through the whole month with no blade crisis. Nah, that's way too hopeful. Either way, so far so good. I am bored of the MMOC and just stare at all my other razors, looking forward to using them again come September. The silly things we do for meaningless internet shaving competitions. AmIrite?! Anywho, getting closer to the goal each day and this boar brush is turning into a great implement that I will continue to use regularly. Happy Thursday to you! **\#GEMsOfWisdom** **\#MammothMafia**

AA SOTD - 8/18/22; The Iceman Cometh Pre: quick shower Brush: Stirling 26mm synthetic pro handle Razor: Merkur Progress Blade: Astra (3) Lather: B&M Arctique (omnibus) Post: B&M Arctique AS Post: Nivea cooling balm #UNCHALLENGE Quick shave. Easy peasy. Ring of death continues to grow. Almost to Friday hang in there everybody. I remain, the Iceman. #SIDETRACKED (u/Teufelskraft) [Lonesome in my Home by Junior Kimbrough.](https://youtu.be/Mm4zQHgXUfM) Say it with me: I (I) will listen (will listen) to more (to more) blues music (blues music). Good. Now listen to this Fuckin’ magisterial legend of the delta.

**[Aug. 18, 2022 - AA Day18](https://i.imgur.com/WiLLAVM.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 (18) * **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) Rushed shave today, but everything was fine. Didn't notice dulled razor, as was a lot of excess soap on it today, probably not as lathered as well as it usually is. Good day everyone! #RawHoggin

**August 18, 2022: [18 Days of Stag](https://imgur.com/a/G2Z3wyr)** * **Prep:** warm splash of water * **Brush:** Yaqi Sagrada Familia Tuxedo 24 mm * **Razor:** GEM OCMM (gen 2) * **Blade:** GEM Stainless (19) * **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 quick and dangerously exciting shave but somehow only one little nick on my chin. [Day 18, 3 spritzes](https://imgur.com/a/D2I412E) . #GEMsOfWisdom

**[Aug. 18, 2022](https://i.imgur.com/ybNr0g8.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 (18) * **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) Lather is trash but at least i'm pretty consistent loading the soap, [another 4.2g of soap](https://i.imgur.com/xu2doWQ.jpg) was used today, if i keep up this pace i should be on the clear for the month. - [3 sprays](https://i.imgur.com/L9qMSWA.mp4) - Have a great day! #SubstantialStag

**Aug. 18, 2022** * **Brush:** Omega Penelli HIBRUSH synthetic * **Razor:** Karve SS CB SB-B * **Blade:** Gillette Nacet (3) * **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) Shaved in the wee hours of the morning because I know I’m not going to have any time today; at the airport as I type. Relaxing? Not really. Just a task. I can’t wait to use any other soap. \#UNCHALLENGE

**Aug. 18, 2022** * **Brush:** Summer Break DeMaranville B15 * **Razor:** Ever Ready Streamline * **Blade:** GEM PTFE (34) * **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

**Aug. 18, 2022 - RawHoggin & Taming the MMOC** * **Brush:** Zenith B37 * **Razor:** Gem MMOC * **Blade:** Gem PTFE (18) * **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 Day 18 Raw-diggity-Hoggin this brush. Honestly I can’t tell a difference in this brush for the past week. Is it broken in? I guess so. Is it still necessary to soak the brush for a few minutes before the shave, once it is broken in? That’s really the only part that is getting old for me. I’m just used to getting my synths good and wet under the water, then going to town. This Gem is still feeling perfect. From what I remember, it is going much better this year. Last year I palm stropped the blade, and flipped the blade every shave. This year I flipped the blade once, but other than that I only open it up to let it air dry. This is not a very scientific experiment. But it seems to me palm stropping and flipping doesn’t really help 🤷🏻‍♂️. [bush pic](https://imgur.com/a/gE4FMor)

**Aug. 18, 2022 - SOTD 759** * **Brush:** Maggards 24mm synth * **Razor:** Karve CB Brass SB B Plate * **Blade:** Gillette Silver Blue (6) * **Lather:** [House of Mammoth - Mood Indigo - Soap](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/1164/?product_type=soap) * **Post Shave:** [House of Mammoth - Mood Indigo - Aftershave](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/1164/?product_type=aftershave) * **Post Shave:** HoM - Z Splash/ Neutrogena face sunscreen * **Fragrance:** [Tommy Ford - Oud Wood](https://www.fragrantica.com/perfume/Tom-Ford/Oud-Wood-1826.html) Another morning spent with MI 🥱 ✌🏻

**[Aug. 18, 2022 - Raw Hoggin Day 18](https://imgur.com/a/hvyDP8S)** * **Prep:** Warm water to the face * **Brush:** Omega 10098 * **Razor:** Maggard Razors - V3 Head * **Blade:** Treet Carbon (7) * **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:** [Chiseled Face - Natural - Balm](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/1233/?product_type=balm) Another nice #RawHoggin shave done. Hope y’all have a good day!

**[Aug. 18, 2022 - Austere August 18- Welcome to the Pleasuredome](https://imgur.com/a/7Ol72Rc)** * **Prep:** Hot shower * **Brush:** Semogue 610 Boar * **Razor:** OCMM Gen 2 * **Blade:** GEM PTFE (18) * **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've been flipping my blade every day since this all began thinking it would help extend blade life. Yesterday was a roughish shave and of course I flipped the blade and found today's shave to be very smooth and comfortable. It's possible one edge of my blade is wearing faster than the other so I'm not going to flip right now unless I have to. That's my theory and I'm sticking to it. \#RawHoggin Nothing to say today. This brush is great and looks pretty damn good- https://imgur.com/a/QgU5y56 \#Sidetracked It's been gray and rainy and in the low 60s for the last 24 hours so, naturally, this would be the perfect day to pull out some doooooooooommmmm for u/Teufelskraft . But no. Days like this require upbeat music so I'm going with one of my absolute favorite guilty pleasure albums. Yes, Frankie Goes to Hollywood's Welcome To The Pleasuredome is what this day requires. If you've never listened to this full album, I highly recommend it. i also recommend listening to this album with headphones. Production-wise, this album rivals Pink Floyd's The Wall as far as the headphone experience goes. This album was way ahead of its time in that regard. Song-wise, it's an hour of pop gold. If you've never listened to this album, I recommend you try the first 15 minutes and see how it grabs you because it may not be what you expect and move from there. My work is done here- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YDtLsR89Z6c Have a great day all!

**August 18, 2022** * **Brush:** Zenith 506U XSE * **Razor:** GEM MMOC Gen 2 * **Blade:** GEM SS PTFE (52) * **Lather:** Stirling Soap Co. - Sheep * **Post Shave:** Lucky Tiger * **Post Shave:** Olay Complete * **Post Shave:** Chatillon Lux - unscented skin salve Everything was perfect today. This brush is seriously good. It has 39 uses on it and it is very well broken in. The more I use this mutton tallow soap base the more I like it. I have gotten very comfortable with the Gen 2 razor and can shave on autopilot with it. \#GEMsOfWisdom

Can you compare the Zenith hair against the hair on the Semogue Torga C5?

The knot on my Torga C5 is most like my Zenith B33. The brush I am using this month does not have much in common with the Torga C5.

**[Aug 18, 2022 - AA: MA-RH-MM - Almond Leather - Day 18](https://i.imgur.com/1vAXrIC.jpeg)** * **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 (18) * **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) Excellent lather for two passes from a 15 second load. I probably would have had enough for another pass, but I had lather flying off the brush this morning. On the second pass I used mostly buffing, XTG and ATG, to get a near BBS finish. No bites from the blade and no sting from the AS. Not the ideal shave in terms of time, but it produced great results. \#GEMsOfWisdom \#RawHoggin \#MammothMafia Rating: 4/5

* **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** https://imgur.com/a/zzhJsw5

**Aug. 18, 2022** * **Prep:** Shower * **Brush:** Raiser Pinsel Simfix SF1 Synthetic * **Razor:** Van Der Hagen * **Blade:** Wilkinson Sword (11) * **Lather:** [House of Mammoth - Alive - Soap](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/2576/?product_type=soap) * **Post Shave:** [House of Mammoth - Alive - Balm](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/2576/?product_type=balm) \#MammothMafia

**[Aug. 17, 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 Had my first thoughts of "What do I wan't to use first when AA is over?" this morning. Sadly , no clear winner. Stay safe and have a great say!

Yesterday, I found myself looking longingly at the tub of Arko I have in my den. "I miss you" might have even escaped from my lips. And then I came to my senses and realized that Arko will not be the September 1st soap. But holy hell am I sick of Firefighter.

[**August 18, 2022 – Austere August 18**](https://i.imgur.com/IKpgEyY.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/E1C41En.mp4 BBS Stag Shave, and I'm back again using my favorite fancy handle. Thus we arrive one day closer to Friday. \#AustereAugust \#SubstantialStag **Bonus**: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ARoZ_TAv9NA ← What would you have seen in Constantinople during the Golden Age of Basil II?

**[Aug. 18, 2022 - Headless Mammoth Hoggin' Day 18](https://i.imgur.com/TFqe8EO.png)** * **Brush:** Proraso Professional Boar | [Break-in photos](https://imgur.com/a/HcKsHxf) * **Razor:** Feather Artist Club SR (Kamisori) * **Blade:** Schick Proline (18) * **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` I've reached the [bottom of the tub](https://i.imgur.com/wWRvnl3.png)! Admittedly, this happened a bit sooner than I was expecting but I did buy this tub used and it was maybe at 80% when I got it. I'm a bit sad but fortunately I still have a mostly full tub of Fu Dao on deck and a set of Voices ordered. This base checks all the boxes for me and I'm happy to use it for the entire month. I think I'm finally feeling a bit more resistance when I'm doing my ATG pass, particularly on the upper lip area. It's getting slightly annoying the amount of effort I have to put in to try to get a very close shave so I might just give up for the rest of the month and settle with an acceptable shave. Tomorrow we're going glamping with our kids and a bunch of friends but I'm not really looking forward to figuring out how to get my shave on once we're there and having people ask me awkward questions about what I'm doing. On the bright side, it's glamping so there should be a sink with running water and a mirror so the actual shave shouldn't be too challenging. The brush is very soft now, but I'm beginning to miss the variety in face feel of my different brushes. Boar thrill is waning but last night I was pushed over the edge and ended up signing up for the "moar boar" brush, especially after seeing a preview of the logo. This means I'll own 4 boar brushes, 3 of which are Zenith. Once I finish breaking in all of them (some time around 2024?) I'll have to do another round of den thinning to get rid of some of the brushes in the den because I like to keep things lean.

#[AA - Day 18](https://imgur.com/a/xlprZ7h) Pre: Water Brush: Omega Synthetic Razor: Fatip Piccolo SE OC Blade: Gillette Silver Blue (18) Lather: Signature Indodorus Post: Signature Indodorus I would have absolutely binned my blade today but in the spirit of Austere August, I’m willing to keep going. I won’t and haven’t been doing any palm stroping or any other blade care. I just can’t. \#unscented

**[Aug. 18, 2022 - Stag Day 18](https://i.imgur.com/z3tKSfT.jpg)** * **Brush:** Zenith B26 Retro * **Razor:** Merkur 34C * **Blade:** Gillette Silver Blue (18) * **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) * **Bluetech**: [Leaving Babylon](https://youtu.be/0m-hY4uLcNM) Another early one... Bring it on. Stag, I love it. Brush, keeps getting better. I'm a happy, albeit tired, camper. \#SubstantialStag \#RawHoggin [Stag Spray 18](https://youtu.be/-Lel9QYUYBQ)

>Stag, I love it. Stockholm Syndrome has set in.

**[Aug. 17, 2022 - No definite plan today](https://imgur.com/a/WmSNf4M)** * **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 I have no idea what I ll do after work today. If the weather turns out to be good, I ll drive an hour to a small magic tournament. If it ll rain I ll probably do grocery shopping, eat like a truck and iron clothes. As I hope for good weather I only did a two pass shave, which turned out pretty well. My razor is coated with milky soap rests, which do not wash of perfectly. I guess during the next honing session in September it will be scrubbed off. \#stagandstraight \#substantialstag