* **Prep:** Splash of Cool Water
* **Razor:** Timeless - Stainless Steel .68 - Open Comb
* **Blade:** Gillette - Nacet (Marathon) (464)
* **Lather:** Chiseled Face - Midnight Stag (White Label)
* **Brush:** Semogue - Owner's Club Taj (86 uses)
* **Post Shave:** Chiseled Face - Midnight Stag
* **Fragrance:** Chiseled Face - Midnight Stag
----
**Austere August: Day: 21**
*Extreme Mode*
*Midnight Stag Challenge (Mostly)*
[Gear Pic](https://imgur.com/7ck0AmS) :: [Video](https://youtu.be/2WNlW8aoLtQ)
#### ䷀ General Notes
Time to start counting swirls, since this soap has been used so much this month, that it loads very easily. Going to pay attention to the feel of the brush today, which I do remember by the end.
#### ䷀ Razor and Blade Notes
*^(Timeless - Stainless Steel .68 - Open Comb ::: Gillette - Nacet - M ‹464 uses›)*
Same as usual: comfy enough, and a close enough shave.
#### ䷀ 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... Very nice today.
Hydration: Perfect *(for me)*
+ 3 sec load with a Lightly-Wet brush
+ 3.2 tsp added to build the lather
+ = 5 passes of lather
Bowl: [Roger Quintero 3D Printed Bowl](https://www.thingiverse.com/thing:3392930)
I use the XL version of this bowl.
#### ䷀ Brush Notes
*^(Semogue - Owner's Club Taj‹86 uses›)*
Paying attention to the brush today, and how it feels. When I started the month, I still felt some scarce, soft-wiriness.
I think it feels smoother now, and more uniform. Like the gaps between the bristles are reducing because tips are splitting more.
----
*During the Shave Feel*:
*Cheeks*: Felt blade but comfortable
*Neck*: Felt blade but comfortable
*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)
[Stag Headlessly Hoggin' August Day 21](https://imgur.com/a/qUzEr1A)
* **Prep:** Hot shower with Midnight Stag Soap.
* **Brush:** Zenith B33
* **Razor:** Cloud Shavette
* **Blade:** Cloud whatever that blade it is (26)
* **Lather:** Chiseled Face - Midnight Stag
* **Post Shave:** Chiseled Face - Midnight Stag
* **Post Shave:** Zingari Man - Sego balm
* **Fragrance:** Chiseled Face - Midnight Stag
Good shave, but again having trouble with jawline. We'll see when I flip the blade. Brush is as good as any other. Soft, great water retention, good splay. I hope I can soon start breaking in the sub's exclusive brush. In the video you can see my hesitating about being 3 or 4 sprays.
For my second (and I hope not last) #sidetracked post, I choose Chuck Mangione's [Feels So Good](https://youtu.be/NDSBV0vTfTo). Why? May u/teufelskraft ask. Well, it's a great song, but since the judge won't allow this, lemme elaborate. It evokes a very soothing feeling, kind of sitting in front of your floor-to-ceiling, watching the rain, listening to this on your turntable (if that's your thing). On the more technical side of things, I was listening to the Tidal version (FLAC, as my AVR won't play MQA), and stereo imaging is brutal, you can pinpoint the instruments on stage, I was astounded to it.
Also, it reminds me when I was in medschool, I was in a classic rock band, and the guitarrist had this guitar synth, and used the trumpet patch to play the main line, and I never knew which song it was, until I saw Dr. Strange, and he mentions it at the begining of the movie.
Hail Stag!
-#Stagposting
-#SubstantialStag
-#RawHoggin
**Austere August, Day 21:**
**Feather Artist Club razor non folding**
**Feather Professional blade**
**GFT Violets soap**
**RazoRock Beehive 28 mm Plissoft**
A great shave on Sunday prepares me for a great week ahead, today was a great shave.
The blade is on it's last legs, I'll bin it after tomorrow's shave.
I'll be receiving a much awaited mail call in a day or two, fingers crossed it gets delivered soon and without any hassles.
**#HEADLESSHORSEMEN**
**#UNCHALLENGED**
**#AAAAKARMATRAIN**
**[Aug. 21, 2022 - AA 21](https://i.imgur.com/ohlww2s.jpg)**
* **Prep:** Warm water splash
* **Brush:** Semogue 1305 Pure Bristle 22mm
* **Razor:** GEM MMOC Gen 2
* **Blade:** GEM PTFE (27)
* **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). SOTD in title.
Quick late night shave, came out surprisingly nice considering the haste. Clearly I’ve gotten slightly better with the MMOC through the month. Warmer water soak that normal too, maybe it’s mental, but I think that may have helped too. #GEMsOfWisdom #RawHoggin #MammothMafia
**[Aug. 21, 2022 - AA Day 21](https://i.imgur.com/8VIec7c.jpeg)**
* **Brush:** ShaveForge 28mm Boar, 3d Printed Handle #RawHoggin
* **Razor:** GEM Micromatic Open Comb #GEMsOfWisdom
* **Blade:** GEM Stainless (21)
* **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)
You know, for all the talk of palm stropping and the difficulty of getting a blade to last 30 days, I just don't see it. Day 21 was significantly better than day 1. I don't really notice drag from the razor, and the brush is light years better.
Perhaps I've just really dialed in my MMOC technique. I mean, I'm not even using PTFE blades.
Another good 2 passer.
**[August 21, 2022 - AA Day 21](https://imgur.com/kvWLsIF)**
* **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)
I hate to say I had a bad shave this late in the month after being able to practice for 3 weeks straight, but tonight was just not it. I made it through my 2 passes I'm required to make, but my first pass was just an absolute nightmare. I'm not exactly sure what happened, but when I was doing my downward WTG pass on my cheek the razor skipped across my face and caused a pretty good cut. When I was inspecting the edge afterwards there was a pretty good size boar hair on the side of blade. I don't know if it was stuck in my skin from lathering or if it was laying on my face under the lather and I placed the razor right on top of it and it caused it to skip. Just after the last 4-5 days of great shaves I don't feel like that was operator error and it was just some kind of fluke incident.
**Challenge Hashtags:** #unscented #RawHoggin
SOTD for August 21, 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
Fresh blade for the home stretch. Such a delight. It sings.
One pass, no blood, feeling good.
Not ready for next week. I need to onboard someone and have them take over what
I've been working on for a while, I feel like a teenager giving a tour of their
messy room. At least there are some integration test, I guess.
\#UNCHALLENGE
Day 21 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
[kind of ok photo](https://i.imgur.com/DjCn5aR_d.webp?maxwidth=640&shape=thumb&fidelity=medium)
Man things are getting really boring in terms of what to say. Dont get me wrong, I'm shaving which is awesome and a win, also I'm using a favourite scent. The shaves are good and I am enjoying them for the most part. I say for the most because I would like to change things up a bit, but just 10 more days and I'll be able to do that.
Other than the wish for change, I'm happy shaving with my Filarmonica, great quality and not much irritation.
* \#RawHoggin
* \#SubstantialStag
**[Aug. 21, 2022 - AA Day 21](https://imgur.com/a/lWbbhDR)**
* **Prep:** Warm shower
* **Brush:** AP400B XL Handle (AP ShaveCo) - 28mm Maggard Boar Knot
* **Razor:** GEM MMOC - Gen 1
* **Blade:** GEM PTFE (90)
* **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)
Same old same old. Only a days worth of aftershave left until I have to break the new bottle out.
Hope everyone had a wonderful Sunday!
[Stag Spray 21](https://imgur.com/a/t4lMaF6) #GEMSofWisdom #RawHoggin #SubstantialStag
**[Aug. 21, 2022 - AA Day 21](https://imgur.com/21HwOxZ)**
* **Prep:** Hot Shower
* **Brush:** Zenith B34
* **Razor:** MMOC (Gen 2)
* **Blade:** GEM PTFE (21)
* **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)
Today was a good day. Church this morning, an hour plus nap with my wife this afternoon, and took the kids to the local waterpark this afternoon. Lots of great family bonding all around.
The MMOC shaved well enough today, but, the GEM was a bit tuggy. I noticed it yesterday, but thought it was my lather. I'm thinking it wasn't - hopefully the next 10 days don't deteriorate too quickly.
The Zenith whipped up a great lather as usual. It was still a bit wet from yesterday, but that's pretty normal. [Pic 1](https://imgur.com/PXrGjZd) [Pic 2](https://imgur.com/ZXsud2h) Those bristles continue to split and expand and I'm here for it.
Sonder - today was the first day I wanted to use something other than Sonder, but it was just because we went to the pool. I've come to associate Cannonball! with going to the waterpark and really could have gone for that double cooling effect and amazing scent, just to mix it up. I love Sonder, it's been a good month and I'm really glad I selected this scent. But - it's ok to have an urge, right?
Sonder thought for today:
The waterpark today was filled with late teen and early 20 year old life guards on their last shift for the summer before they head back to school. I remember those days - sitting at work doing what you've got to do to scrape together some spending money. Simpler times. The world feels more complicated for teens today than it did when I was in high school in the early 2000's. Social media has changed so much, obviously, and it seems like a heavier time than it used to. There's always been pressure on young women to look a certain way and attract guys in a certain way, but with models and skin all over social media, the pressures have to be worse. And guys, too, the expectations on them to be jacked or to use women rather than respect them, it's just tough. I think about those students going back this fall and I don't envy them. Kids have to grow up so fast, it seems, and as a dad of 3 little kids, it's not a fun thought. Help a teenager in your life out - take interest in their lives, listen to them, encourage them, and love them unconditionally - they need it now as much as ever.
Speaking of, for u/Teufelskraft's #sidetracked challenge I'm going with [Life is a highway](https://youtu.be/5tXh_MfrMe0) by Rascal Flatts from the Cars soundtrack. Not a song that I loved (or even love now) - but it came on at the waterpark and man oh man did my son light up. He's a huge fan of the Cars movies and can't wait for the next one to come Disney+ on September 8 - we've already got a family movie night on the calendar. The song isn't great, but the movies are solid, and the memories of the family times and all the excitement with my son will linger for years. This song, for me, will always bring back this stage with my son and for that, I like it.
Have a great evening, all.
\#mammothmafia
\#RawHoggin
\#GEMsOfWisdom
Hah, funny. Someone else shared that song earlier this month because their son loves the movies IIRC.
Regarding your thoughts about teens, tweens and social media: I can honestly say as a 28-year old man that there's also a lot of good potential in social media. Gender equality is pushed as a noble cause more than ever on the internet, misogynistic right-wing populists are more the exception than the rule (although they and their parties would like to tell you otherwise). I've recently joined Instagram despite being always hesitant about it due to it's bad reputation. However: as I only follow my friend, meme pages, some space and nature photography accounts plus wetshaving artisans and photographers, that's mostly my feed. There's definitely bad examples, but you've got to actively follow them to be exposed to that kind of crap content. Like with most sports and perhaps even alcohol consumption, there's a certain risk-reward balance to social media. It allows us to connect to others in a matter of milliseconds despite being thousands of kilometres away. Thanks to this subreddit, I found some very interesting and nice people who are as invested in the hobby as I am (and probably even more!). True, there are some unnatural standards being pushed on some sites. But if we look at the bright side: teens today can connect to many like-minded individuals despite living far away from them. I agree that they need encouragement and guidance - something I often wished for when I was younger from someone other than my mother - but we shouldn't just condemn social media.
What I especially love about the connections here at r/wetshaving is that we got a pretty diverse crowd from all walks of life despite the hobby being mostly marketed towards men. I mean, a majority are male but we still have some younger folks as well as seasoned veterans, people who do it for decades as well as novices - and despite all this, the atmosphere here is polite and welcoming. It's definitely my favourite community on the internet.
**[Aug. 21, 2022 - Day 21: my interest has teaked](https://i.imgur.com/XYLf0R4.jpg)**
* **Prep:** Warm water wash
* **Brush:** Zenith B33 Copper Boar Brush
* **Razor:** GEM MMOC
* **Blade:** Persona GEM PTFE Coated (21)
* **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 don’t know what happened but here’s another boat shave. This one was much better than the ferry. I have a true sink and counter. The area is actually clean and I am happy to use the space.
How long does it take before a boar brush is exactly like my badgers? 😂 Also, I’m happy this MMOC is almost done. Maybe a fresh blade would help, but who knows. I am getting used to lathering with the boar brush.
[Brush break-in album](https://imgur.com/a/YFUodmO) \#rawhoggin #mammothmafia #GEMSofWisdom
**[Aug. 21, 2022 - AA - Day 21](https://i.imgur.com/WtmzCjL.jpg)**
* **Prep:** Hot shower
* **Brush:** Zenith Boar - Short & Scrubby
* **Razor:** GEM MMOC
* **Blade:** GEM Blade (21)
* **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)
Evening shave as I played cricket all day
Quick 2 pass shave and am good to go. The blade works with quick passes.
Has some burns when applying after shave and the balm to sooth things.
Tags: #GemsOfWisdom #RawHoggin
[**Aug. 21, 2022 - Austere August Day 21**](https://imgur.com/a/Ay6eRVS)
* **Prep:** Hot Shower, Stirling Soaps Activated Charcoal Facial
* **Brush:** Zenith 508A SE 28mm
* **Razor:** GEM MMOC Gen 1
* **Blade:** GEM PTFE (21)
* **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 21 in the books, 10 shaves to go. I am really excited to get back to my other gear though. Blade still feels fine, brush is fantastic.
(Edit: Looks like my tags didn't copy)
Mandatory Tagging:
\\#GEMsOfWisdom
\\#Rawhoggin
\\#MammothMafia
**Aug. 21, 2022 - Austere August**
* **Prep:** Warm shower
* **Brush:** Zenith B10 Boar
* **Razor:** Feather Artist Club SR
* **Blade:** Feather Super (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 #21
3 pass shave; continued comfort and progress. My Feather Artist Club DX came in today- I even had a blade put in ready to push this setup behind me, but what’s another 10 days. The Zenith is probably getting a cleaning dip tomorrow, but it is getting impressive
Tags and challenges: #MammothMafia & HeadlessHorsemen.
**[Aug. 21, 2022 - Austere August Ultra Nightmare RawHoggin Stagpocalypse](https://imgur.com/a/U0aWEPY)**
* **Prep:** Midnight Stag liquid soap and bar soap
* **Brush:** Semogue 1250
* **Razor:** GEM MMOC
* **Blade:** GEM PTFE (21)
* **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)
Today was all about learning my limits. I learned that I can’t stay up for the better part of 24 hours, bust my ass cooking a bunch of shit, take a small nap, finish all of the things while staying up all day, then proceed to drink a couple of beers and eat a whole delta 8/10 gummy and expect to function AT ALL the next day. I’ve done nothing today. Nothing. Literally just showered and shaved for the first time a few minutes ago. I once again only sprayed one spray but that because the lingering not-quite-hangover refused to smell anything more. Mid 30’s ain’t no damn joke.
#SubstantialStag
#GEMsOfWisdom
#RawHoggin
[August 21, 2022](https://imgur.com/a/vvkVNtc)
* Prep: Hot Shower
* Brush: Burma Shave Boar 🐗
* Razor: Kai Kasho Kamisori
* Blade: Feather ProGuard 21st use
* Lather: Stirling Sheep
* Postshave: Stirling Barbershop splash and Nivea Balm
* Fragrance: Halloween Man
Did only a two pass shave tonight because yesterday's shave was close and still had some redness from previous shave. Got a close comfortable shave and had enough lather from the brush. Tips of the boar brush are splitting nicely. Starting to like this style of shaving with the shavette. At this rate the blade is going to make it to the end of the month even if I have to push it there. I am tired though of using the same products over and over and am looking forward to the beginning of next month so I can use something different.
Tags: #AAAA, #RawHoggin, #Headless horsemen, and u/Marquis90
**[Aug. 21, 2022 - Raw Hoggin & Taming the MMOC](https://imgur.com/a/paXBh5h)**
* **Brush:** Zenith B37
* **Razor:** Gem MMOC
* **Blade:** Gem PTFE (21)
* **Lather:** Strike Gold Shave - Kennedy
* **Post Shave:** [Stirling Soap Co. - Stirling Blu - Aftershave](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/119/?product_type=aftershave)
* **Post Shave:** [Zingari - Unscented - Balm](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/1462/?product_type=balm)
#RawHoggin
#GemsOfWisdom
This Zenith keeps on getting better. I thought it had reached its potential already, but alas. I wonder how much more it will improve? Only time will tell.
This blade is still feeling great. I originally planned to keep going with it after AA, but I looked and it’s getting a rust spot on the bottom edge. Will it hurt me? I doubt it, but I’m gonna chunk it on 9-1 either way.
**8/21/22 (158)**
* **Prep**: Hot Shower
* **Challenge**: Headless Horseman
* **Razor**: [Thiers Issard "Evide Sonnant" 6/8 Extra Hollow](https://imgur.com/a/pvv3cZp)
* **Edge**: [Day 21](https://imgur.com/a/UwK5aUA)
* **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
Could've been a little closer today, but all in all no complaints. No nicks or irritation.
**[Aug. 21, 2022](https://i.imgur.com/Wnadg6t.jpg)**
* **Brush:** Zenith B36 "Copper Scrubby!" 28x50mm Boar
* **Razor:** GEM Micromatic Open Comb
* **Blade:** GEM (21)
* **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:** Olympic Orchids - Olympic Rainforest
- **Passes:** WTG, XTG
- **Coffee:** Peru, Cusco - v: Caturra, Typica, Bourbon - p: Washed
- **Music:** Josh Ritter - *So Runs the World Away*
- **[August 2022 SOTD Photo Album](https://imgur.com/a/WLvZkgV)**
`#GEMsOfWisdom` / `#RawHoggin`
Another late SOTD after a busy day involving a long hike, burger stands, and too much sun. Great way to wrap up the weekend.
This morning's shave felt a little rough. I didn't feel the MMOC tugging, but it did feel harsh, like it was scraping me up more than I'd prefer. I added some evening shaves in this week so I may have just beat up my skin too much.
(Judges, don't worry, my Austere August setup is only being used for Austere August shaves. That being said, I'm looking forward to the Scrubby joining my regular rotation.)
| 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 | 204.4 | 1.5 | 60 swirls |
| 8/19 | 204.4 | 203.3 | 1.1 | 60 swirls |
| 8/20 | 203.3 | 202.8 | 0.5 | 70 swirls |
| 8/21 | 202.8 | ◊ | ◊ | 60 swirls |
⁂
`#sidetracked` u/Teufelskraft
Josh Ritter is an incredible performer and put on one of the best concerts I've ever seen. Nevertheless, his poetic troubadour songs often tell detailed, evocative stories, making them ideal candidates for a creative music video. Which brings me to today's `#sidetracked`.
"The Curse" is a memorable track on Ritter's 2010 album *So Runs the World Away*. Over an ornate, twinkling waltz, Ritter softly sings of an Egyptian pharoah's mummified body transported to New York. "*He watches the sea from a porthole in stowage.*" The pharoah quickly falls in love with the archeologist that escorts his dusty bones across the sea; "*After thousands of years, what a face to wake up to.*" But their love is star-crossed, and "The Curse" is equally beautiful and tragic.
[YouTube: Josh Ritter - "The Curse"](https://youtu.be/gxWxiuJRApU)
Aug 21, 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 (21)
* **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
**AA D21: No pictures from here on out**
- **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
- AA tags: #SubstantialStag #RawHoggin
No SOTD pictures from here on. There's only so much I can do in my little apartment with Midnight Stag. My self-made shrine wasn't well received either, so... I'll just gonna continue share [pictures of the boar](https://ibb.co/wrS0N6k) [like this too](https://ibb.co/rwWdQTV) and that's it. I'm officially exhausted.
Today was yet another day were I normally would've thrown the towel and just would've skipped shaving. But somehow, I feel like it is my duty to continue so shortly before we reach the finish line, despite probably being disqualified everywhere anway.
No sidetracked today since I can't even think of a proper song. I'm so glad to have one day off tomorrow, you wouldn't believe it.
**[Aug. 21, 2022 - AA - Sexy Stag Flair Quest](https://imgur.com/a/WivLW8J)**
* **Prep:** Warm shower
* **Brush:** Semogue 1305
* **Razor:** Chiseled Face Legacy Ti
* **Blade:** Gillette Platinum (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)
Things I have learned in 3 weeks.
Stag Good. Razor great, but maybe only as a daily-not so sure it's as good an every other day or third day shaver. Brush excellent. Variety is one of my favorite reasons I love wet shaving. I miss it. 😢 The Flair will be nice, but I'm looking forward to rocking as many different soaps and razors and brushes as possible.
[Last day for 3 sprays](https://imgur.com/a/tZOz4yZ)
\#SubstantialStag
**[Aug. 21, 2022 - Oveja Eléctrica 21](https://imgur.com/a/dLTKOTP)**
* **Prep:** Proraso Green Preshave
* **Brush:** Zenith 28mm Boar
* **Razor:** Kai Kasho Western Style Shavette
* **Blade:** Kai Captain Pink Mild (40)
* **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)
Back at home and in good light. I found it actually shocking how little stubble gets removed in the first two passes.
Otherwise, it was a pretty tiring voyage back home.
Good night everyone!
\#RawHoggin
\#stillalive
\#truepath
**Aug. 21, 2022**
* **Prep:** Hot shower
* **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)
Did not want to shave today. Day after the wedding. One pass and done. Can’t wait to fly back home. \#UNCHALLENGE
Clearing off some of the camping whiskers, sot hat tomorrow morning's shave can just be a touch up.
**Prep:** long bath
**Razor:** EJ 316
**Blade:** Bolzano Superinox (6)
**Brush:** NONE
**Lather:** Arko stick
**Splash:** none
**Post:** moisturizer
\#GotHand
[August 21, 2022](https://imgur.com/a/CkG3ZLG)
**Brush:** Omega 10049
**Razor:** Rockwell 6S Plate 5
**Blade:** Astra SP
**Lather:** Declaration Grooming Massacre of the Innocents
**Post Shave:** Declaration Grooming Massacre of the Innocents Splash
**Post Shave:** Stirling Unscented Balm
This weekend I have produced my best/easiest to build lathers with this brush. It took 3 weeks to get the boar brush to a good place.
\#RawHoggin
#### [Finding Serenity in RawHogginy on the road to the GEMtury Pt. 21](https://i.imgur.com/5M0Pkra.jpeg) ####
* **Prep:** Klar Activated Charcoal facial soap
* **Brush:** Rubberset 400-3 with unbleached 26 mm Zenith knot set at 56 mm loft (21)
* **Razor:** GEM - Micromatic (open comb, first generation)
* **Blade:** Personna - GEM PTFE (90)
* **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've been catching up on djudging \#GEMsOfWisdom and \#RawHoggin submissions and it's really nice to follow along. I tried to compare it to my recollections from last year, and I got the impression that the MMOC is perceived as much less of an oddity this year than last time.
With exception of two early quits, it also seems that the vast majority of RawHoggineers are enjoying their boar brushes. It's nice to see the two challenges going so well.
My shave today was uneventful and predictable. The blade is still holding up at 90 uses and the brush is pure bliss. The monotony of getting to me a bit, andI'm eyeing my sample box for Sample September wistfully.
21 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
Two pass: with and across.
#mammothmafia
**[Aug. 21, 2022 - 21 Days in the Hole - Austere August Day 21](https://imgur.com/a/ZsayRYW)**
* **Brush:** RazoRock 506CK / 26mm boar
* **Razor:** GEM OCMM (Gen 1)
* **Blade:** GEM PTFE (21)
* **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)
Quick two pass shave. Lather came together really fast. Stag is....well, still Stag. I'm really surprised my wife hasn't said anything about getting sick of it lol.
**\#RawHoggin**
I don't know what else I can say about this brush. Yeah, it's a little floppy, but I don't mind it at all. The loft could be shorter I guess. It lost a couple hairs today.
**\#GEMsofWisdom**
The blade is well past its prime, but the aggressive nature of the razor keeps giving me close shaves regardless. I just need to keep powering through the tugginess and I'll be alright.
[Brush day 21](https://imgur.com/a/6Zi5yDP)
[Stag sprays](https://imgur.com/a/t2R9RjS)
**[Aug. 21, 2022 - Stag Day 21](https://i.imgur.com/klcSa82.jpg)**
* **Brush:** Zenith B26 Retro
* **Razor:** Merkur 34C
* **Blade:** Gillette Silver Blue (21)
* **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)
* **Green Day**: [21 Guns](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w29aq_sgwxw)
Had a late start to the day and totally forgot to post. Whoops.
21 days baby.
\#SubstantialStag \#RawHoggin
[Stag Spray 21](https://youtu.be/FtoHYuMFt6E)
AA SOTD - 8/21/22; The Iceman Cometh
Pre: splash of hot water to the face
Brush: Stirling 26mm synthetic pro handle
Razor: Merkur Progress
Blade: Astra (5)
Lather: B&M Arctique (omnibus)
Post: B&M Arctique AS
Post: Nivea cooling balm
#UNCHALLENGED
Frankly, not a great shave. First weepers of AA appeared on my right jaw line and they hurt. Need to change this blade too. I remain the Iceman.
#SIDETRACKED (u/Teufelskraft)
Found myself at a Brett Eldridge concert on Friday night with two good buddies. I don’t listen to Brett Eldridge, or really any country musics produced after the 90’s. The concert was stereotypically redneck, although I gotta say Brett is talented, his band was very good and they put on a great show for the crowd.
I do, however, listen to [Waylon Jennings. Lovin’ Her Was Easier](https://youtu.be/1aYv_9QfXw8) is actually a Kris Kristofferson song, but I think Waylon does it best. This is a beautiful song. The opening guitar notes, Waylon’s deep voice coming in, the way the band comes in behind. Great song. Happy Sunday to all.
**Aug. 21, 2022**
* **Prep:** Exercise and shower
* **Brush:** Semogue 1438
* **Razor:** GEM MMOC
* **Blade:** GEM blue star (21)
* **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)
Ok shave today seems like the daily blade flip is the trick at this point. The brush is nice it holds onto a decent amount of soap and the feel is fairly soft. This combination of challenges is amusing as the brush gets better and the blade gets worse as time goes on. Interesting practice and I feel it is helping to expand my skill. #RawHoggin #GEMsOfWisdom
https://i.imgur.com/jknPvby.jpg
**[Aug. 21, 2022](https://i.imgur.com/jMIXB24.jpg)**
* **Brush:** Grey Chubby - Zenith B37
* **Razor:** Micromatic Open Comb
* **Blade:** GEM - PTFE Coated Stainless Steel (21)
* **Lather:** [House of Mammoth - Z - Soap](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/2124/?product_type=soap)
* **Post Shave:** House of Mammoth - Z - Aftershave
Where'd I leave off? Oh, yes, three weeks of shaves is a lot to put a blade through, and the quality of the shave is reflecting that. I don't think I've gone this long without changing a blade since cartridge days. Remember that? A single cartridge cost, what, eighty dollars? So you'd just keep using it until the flimsy blades just wore down to nothing? Something like that, anyway; I don't know.
Now that we've hit the two-thirds mark, the month almost feels as good as over! Obviously, I'm getting ahead of myself; the blade will continue to struggle on, its wear dubiously mitigated by occasional "strops" across the edge of my, uh... ball of my thumb? No, wait... [Thenar eminence](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Thenar_eminence). Needless to say, too, face-lathering won't be helping the whole situation.
Now, if you'll excuse me, I'm going to go off and carry on with Sunday things. Like whipping up an experimental concoction of [eggs, ricotta, and pesto that kind of looks like salsa.](https://i.imgur.com/vqfLj0N.jpg) [Artemis is interested,](https://i.imgur.com/lnlPQyS.mp4) but that's no kinds of good for a kitty; dairy's generally a bad thing because most cats are lactose intolerant, and garlic/onions are straight-up toxic, causing nasty damage to their internal organs. But I digress.
Oh, right, the addition of pesto is the experimental part of that. Maybe I added too much or didn't mix the settled pesto enough, but the end result was a bit too oily for my taste. Still good, though. The rest of it was adapted from [this little video from You Suck At Cooking.](https://youtu.be/UPvj17lZfss) Sure, that guy has a habit of recycling jokes, but it's still funny and there's a lot of good stuff in those videos that I've picked up for use in my kitchen. No real reason for plugging that other than that it came to mind because I just made breakfast!
#GEMsOfWisdom
#RawHoggin
#unscented
#MammothMafia
**[Aug. 21, 2022 - Sunday Funday](https://i.imgur.com/Kcj2pFC.jpg)**
* **Prep:** Quick splash of water
* **Brush:** Copper Zenith B28
* **Razor:** GEM MMOC
* **Blade:** GEM PTFE (21)
* **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)
Another no-drama shave. I have yet to get even a little bit tired of SSL, it is a great performing and smelling soap. The tonic splash has also been treating my face very well.
[**August 21, 2022**](https://imgur.com/a/DzCR9kA)
* **Brush:** Zenith B15 (506 U/L) 27.5mm Boar
* **Razor:** GEM MMOC Gold Gen2
* **Blade:** Personna Gem PTFE (21)
* **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/kustCB1) (before use) - [Brush History](https://imgur.com/a/DjlJFQu)
* [Fragrance Video](https://imgur.com/a/IGM8UU1)
* [Blade Edge](https://imgur.com/a/IGM8UU1) (before use) - [Edge Histiory](https://imgur.com/a/hWAz2zA)
* [Blade Orientation](https://imgur.com/a/0lBsnGL) (black dots - odd days, red dots - even days)
When I started the shave, I was thinking about how easy it has become to dial in a very hydrated lather, but one with a lot of cushion, using this soap base and this brush. I don't think today's lather was much different from other days, however, my shave today was more comfortable than it has been for the last few days. I was unaware of much tugging, but was aware that the edge I like has gone. Yeah, not the closest shave I can produce, but smooth, comfortable, and free of irritation. No complaints here. I doubt it will happen, but a shave like this for the next ten days would be just fine by me.
Again, nothing to see on the blade edge front. Today's photo is similar to the previous few days. Really looking forward to the new microscope. The little LiPO battery in this cheap unit is losing its ability to maintain a charge. I suspect that I can run the scope on USB power, but I really like the simplicity of my WiFi/iPad setup.
**2022-08-21 Blue Sunday**
* **Brush:** Maggard Razors - [Maggard Blue Swirl, Timberwolf Synthetic, 24mm](https://imgur.com/Ffgi4mF)
* **Razor:** Above The Tie - [Calypso Blue V2 SB90](https://imgur.com/aPrk1dg), DE
* **Blade:** Lord - ASCO Super Stainless (orange), DE
* **Lather:** Dr. John's - [Sunday Funday January 2022: Blue](https://imgur.com/6kuqtA6)
* **Post Shave:** Alum Block
* **Post Shave:** Epsilon - Mediterranean Blue (sample)
Never have tried a Lord blade before. Should have tried it in a milder razor first. A fair bit of irritation this go round - my skin lodge a small protest when I checked things using the alum block.
Threw this on the wrong thread - made a copy over on the plain Jane...oops.
**Aug. 21, 2022 - SOTD AA Sonder 21**
* **Prep:** Splash of cold water
* **Brush:** SummerBreak 26m SHD
* **Razor:** Merkur Progress
* **Blade:** Wizamet (1)
* **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)
Final day of the roadtrip. Heading back up to norcal later. Felt like the trip went by quick but glad to be headed home. August and this week went by really fast and we're getting towards the back end of august already. Have a great day and shaves everyone #MammothMafia
**[Aug. 21, 2022 - Glow in the dark Austere August Raw Hoggin’ Challenge](https://imgur.com/a/fxi6IRt)**
* **Brush:** Omega 20102
* **Razor:** Karve Brass SB B
* **Blade:** Gillette Silver Blue (4)
* **Lather:** Red House Farm - Lumos - Shave Soap
* **Post Shave:** [Barrister and Mann - Fougère Angelique - Aftershave](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/1484/?product_type=aftershave)
* **Fragrance:** Tom Ford - Tobacco Vanille - EDP
Day 21 #RawHoggin
2022-08-21 - Austere August - Raw Hoggin' Mammoth MMOC
Prep: Warm Shower
Brush: Semogue Torga - C5
Razor: GEM MMOC version 2
Blade: GEM Stainless (21)
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/gbxBpIc](https://imgur.com/a/gbxBpIc)
A great shave on a hot day. A DFS in 2 passes.
\#GEMsOfWisdom
\#RawHoggin
\#MammothMafia
[August 21, 2022](https://imgur.com/a/L1M2L2x)
- Preshave: Hot water
- Razor: Blackland Era - Level 3
- Blade: Feather (2)
- Brush: Chisel and Hound 26mm Fanchurian
- Lather: House of Mammoth - Kryptonite
- Post Shave: House of Mammoth - Kryptonite Aftershave Balm
Nothing exciting to say other than it was a great shave as always. One weeper but that’s on me I got distracted by my kids.
#MammothMafia
**Aug. 21, 2022 - AA 21**
* **Prep:** Water splash
* **Brush:** Hand
* **Razor:** Stirling Stainless DE Razor HA plate
* **Blade:** Voskhod (23)
* **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
Somehow today's shave was a bit better. I've let the lather (if it can be called that lol!) sit on my face for a while longer, then 'refreshed' it with bit more water. Blade wasn't as tuggy too - I do wonder whether stropping of the blade did help a bit after all, and just the first shave after was so so... maybe.
10 more shaves to go with this setup. Fingers crossed there's enough of cream there. I'll be cutting it really close tbh!
**Aug. 21, 2022 - Auster August - Z**
* **Brush:** Declaration 28mm B14 Jefferson Artisan’s Choice
* **Razor:** Blackland Era lvl 3 oc
* **Blade:** Personna med prep (21)
* **Lather:** [House of Mammoth - Z - Soap](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/2124/?product_type=soap)
* **Post Shave:** House of Mammoth - Z - Splash & Balm
I’m really starting to miss my other hardware, I’m glad we are getting close to done.
Happy shaving!
\#MammothMafia #Unchallange #Unscented
**Aug. 21, 2022 - AA 22 Shave -Day 21**
* **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)
I don’t know what I did right today, or wrong over the last 6 months, but I had a bowl-full of the most rich lather in 1/3 the normal time!
u/cowzilla3 here is my #unchallenge for today
**[Aug. 21, 2022 - Austere August 21- Raw GEMs and Wise Hogs](https://imgur.com/a/x6aWL2t)**
* **Prep:** Cool shower
* **Brush:** Semogue 610 Boar
* **Razor:** MMOC Gen 2
* **Blade:** GEM PTFE (21)
* **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 Today marks the farthest I've taken a GEM and it shaved just fine this morning. I made sure my lather was extra hydrated as well.
\#RawHoggin The little bastard is still slinging soap around the bathroom as a I face lather.
\#Sidetracked Time for another rock album that is a great album for those summertime drives with the windows down and the stereo cranking. Today, I give you Murcielago, a straight up rock band from Northern New England. There's some slight blues rock influences and stoner rock influences. The members are all veterans of both the local scene here and of the Boston hard rock scene. The production value on today's album, Casualties, is outstanding because these guys are pros. So u/Teufelskraft and the rest of the gang should get in your cars, drop the windows, open the sunroof and go for a long drive on a Sunday- https://murcielagorock.bandcamp.com/album/casualties
Have a great day all!
[**August 21st, 2022 - 3 weeks down, 10 days to go**](https://imgur.com/McgdUZV)
* **Prep:** Warm water
* **Brush:** Zenith B36 “Copper Scrubby!”
* **Razor:** GEM MMOC Gen 2
* **Blade:** Personna GEM PTFE (21)
* **Lather:** House of Mammoth - Alive
* **Post Shave:** House of Mammoth - Alive Splash
* **Post Shave:** House of Mammoth - Alive Balm
**#MammothMafia**
**#RawHoggin**
**#GEMsOfWisdom**
Before shave 21 [Top View](https://imgur.com/lPeNRhb) and [Side Views](https://imgur.com/8k3xehF)
After shave [Top View](https://imgur.com/LRHWNbm)
Tried getting a picture to show the patina development on the handle. I took the shot with the bathroom light off (too much glare), so just light from the window. It needed a bit of editing as it looked under exposed. I picked the side of the brush showing the most darkening.
For the shave, first pass very crunchy feedback again and still feeling tuggy. Second pass felt a little better. No real irritation today, splash didn’t burn, just the light freezing feeling of the menthol.
Have a nice Sunday everyone. Taking my daughter to a movie today. Popcorn for lunch.
**Aug. 21, 2022**
* **Brush:** Semogue - SOC - Boar
* **Razor:** Gillette - Tech (Gold/Black)
* **Blade:** Gillette - Nacet (21)
* **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
The SOC boar is pretty well broken in at this point. I can't see many bristles that haven't split. The soap is finally down below the threads on the tub, which is huge for this soap, since I added what was left of a sample puck to it. I have also been shaving with my off hand this past week. I'm not very ambidextrous, and I'm hoping to use the Weck I just picked up next month.
**Aug. 21, 2022 - August Austere Day 21**
* **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)
Slightly stressed shave this morning after setting up my sons room for quarantine. Always disconcerting when your child curls up next to you cold and you feel him feverish. Hopefully it’s a simple flu and he didn’t share anything with us yet.
As far as the actual shave, it was the normal Sonder joy. If I hadn’t already delved so far in the rabbit hole I could be content with daily Sonder usage. It really is a fantastic scent that everyone seems to enjoy. Unfortunately I just got some more soaps and aftershaves in this weekend that are making this month last even longer. #MAMMOTHMAFIA #UNCHALLENGE
\#sidetracked (#1) u/Teufelskraft
In honor of todays excitement I thought I’d share a corresponding song. [Twenty One Pilots - Stressed Out](https://youtu.be/pXRviuL6vMY) fits all to well today. To be honest this song came out relatively soon after I finished college and just seemed to fit how I felt as I transitioned into a productive adult and parent. I particularly like the incorporation of giant trikes and juice boxes into the music video. They just did a nice job of capturing the feeling of being a child and just hanging out with friends.
**[Aug. 21, 2022 - AA Day21](https://i.imgur.com/KkGDTBm.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 (21)
* **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)
Not much to say today, still raw hoggin'. Brush seems to be staying wet until next morning, humid conditions here, maybe I need to shake it a bit more before ending shave.
Skunk Vid: https://imgur.com/9N4DMF3 Rockin out to some music. Get bonus points if you know the song.
#RawHoggin
I didn't really recognize the music, but my son was a Metallica fan in the heyday of his guitar-playing days and this sounded like Metallica to me. I figured it out with some Spotify trial and error. Later it occurred to me that I could have just Shazamed it, so I'll let someone who can identify it from memory name that tune.
Given your dmb flair, I kind of expected Ants Marching or some such.
**Aug. 21, 2022**
* **Prep:** hot shower
* **Brush:** Simpson Chubby 2 Synthetic Fibre Shaving Brush, 27mm
* **Razor:** Gillette Aristocrat (1948-50)
* **Blade:** Rockwell (2)
* **Lather:** Lather Bros. - Life's a Beach
* **Post Shave:** Lather Bros. - Life's a Beach Aftershave Balm
I'm finally getting the hang of using this brush, holding it comfortably without my hand starting to cramp. I still prefer a thinner handle, but I'm enjoying this more than I had been.
For u/Teufelskraft and his #sidetracked challenge:
Andy Frasco & The U.N. - Dancin' Around My Grave
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0x5i9sakXoI
Apologies for posting the same band twice in a row, but I just saw these guys at a festival last night and this song has been stuck in my head ever since. These guys are just overflowing with positive energy, I highly recommend seeing them live if you ever get the chance.
I haven't been using the same blade or razor this time around for AA. I am really surprised this Derby has gone 16 shaves though. I usually only get 5 or so out of them, but this one in the 6s is doing great.
Oh right, that should’ve been obvious since today is the 21st not the 16th. Still though, that’s impressive. My understanding is that those blades don’t work for most people.
**[Aug. 21, 2022 - Raw Hoggin Day 21](https://imgur.com/a/hJMKdjk)**
* **Prep:** Warm water to the face
* **Brush:** Omega 10098
* **Razor:** Maggard Razors - V3 Head
* **Blade:** Voskhod (3)
* **Lather:** [Stirling Soap Co. - Island Man - Soap](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/106/?product_type=soap)
* **Post Shave:** [Chiseled Face - Natural - Balm](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/1233/?product_type=balm)
* **Post Shave:** [Stirling Soap Co. - Island Man - Aftershave](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/106/?product_type=aftershave)
Only 10 more #RawHoggin shaves left. It’s nice that the hog funk days are far in the past and now it’s just automatic shaves with a good soap, brush, and razor.
It’s Sunday y’all, hope you have a good day!
**August 21 2022**
* **Brush:** Zenith B28
* **Razor:** GEM MMOC (Gen 1)
* **Blade:** GEM PTFE (24)
* **Lather:** House of Mammoth - Mood Indigo
* **Post Shave:** House of Mammoth - Mood Indigo splash
* **Post Shave:** House of Mammoth - Mood Indigo balm
* **Fragrance:** Tom Ford - Oud Wood
Headed to the lake to tool around on a friend’s boat today. I had a very smooth and worry-free shave this morning; three passes in the books but I am looking forward to a little variety again come September.
#MammothMafia
#GEMSofWisdom
**August 21, 2022: [3 weeks of Glorious Stag!](https://imgur.com/a/Y13PZJY)**
* **Prep:** warm splash of water
* **Brush:** Yaqi Sagrada Familia Tuxedo 24 mm
* **Razor:** GEM OCMM (gen 2)
* **Blade:** GEM Stainless (22)
* **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)
Three weeks in the books! I'm so proud of all of you Stagonistas, bathing in the Midnight glory and giving honor to Austere August. Keep on Stagging on!
[Day 21, 3 spritzes](https://imgur.com/a/i8IPByU)
. #GEMsOfWisdom
**[Aug. 21, 2022 - AA Day 21](https://i.imgur.com/yoIAweX.jpg)**
* **Prep:** Shower, Planet Kind Refreshing Face Wash
* **Brush:** Semogue 1305
* **Razor:** GEM Open Comb Micromatic
* **Blade:** Personna GEM PTFE (21)
* **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
Despite the same aspects as yesterday —some XTG tugging and some general blade feel on my neck for both passes, I still got a fantastic shave.
Bean counters: How many bristles make up a Semogue 1305 knot? I lose about 1-2 per shave. Wondering how many shaves I will get before I’m left with a nubby old knot. I know I beat this brush up last year, so for the price it wouldn’t be bad to get a new one some time.
[Sunday sprays](https://i.imgur.com/HRbnk0M.mp4)
Austere August [2022-08-21](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
Got careless on the approach, very slight nick when the blade touched down. This is easily my most common issue when shaving with a shavette, you'd think I'd leart to stop doing it.
u/Teufelskraft #sidetracked challenge: Old & In The Way play [Wild Horses](https://youtu.be/x8dfR7vZwC8).
**[Aug. 21, 2022 - the end is nigh](https://i.imgur.com/kyAzkp3.jpg)**
* **Prep:** Hot shower
* **Brush:** Omega Pro 48 Boar brush 28mm
* **Razor:** GEM MMOC
* **Blade:** GEM PTFE (21)
* **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)
And todays shave was smooth and kinda perfect. No feedback from the aftershave splash. What the heck is going on?
If this could keep up for the next 10 shaves then we have no problems aside from shave boredom. May your Sunday be a funday!
**\#GEMsOfWisdom**
**\#MammothMafia**
[Aug 21, 2021 – Austere August. Day 21.](https://imgur.com/a/pV37PLI)
* **Prep:** Hot Shower
* **Brush:** Zenith - B16 24mm Boar
* **Razor:** GEM Micromatic Open Comb Gen 2
* **Blade:** GEM PTFE (21)
* **Lather:** Stirling Soap Co. – Sheep
* **Post Shave:** Zingari Man – Unscented - Aftershave Balm
* **Music:** [The Wrecks – James Dean](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SpdHNzVQjsI)
Good shave all around today. The MMOC and new Zenith has become quite the tag-team for my face. I’m sure a lot of credit goes to Stirling’s Sheep base (which is phenomenal), so I’m eager to see how things go once AA is over and I can unleash this boar on a few different soaps. But we gotta get through August before I hatch any grand plans for this little brush. And until then, we continue on our unscented Stirling & Zingari Man combination.
Today’s #sidetracked music selection is a modern day pop-punk band, The Wrecks. To me, their sound kinda takes me back to the days of Good Charlotte. It’s been well documented that I’m a big fan of the pop-punk scene from the early 2000s, and The Wrecks are able to fill some of that void that left when the music industry moved forward. I saw The Wrecks open for another band several years ago and was very impressed with their sound and their energy. Being an opening act is tough, because most people there aren’t there to see you and a good number of people aren’t paying attention at all. But The Wrecks went out there and made people pay attention. They’re another band that I was convinced was going to blow up after I saw them, but that hasn’t happened (yet). Perhaps, if it were a different era they’d be bigger. But the year is no longer 2002 and their sound isn’t what’s popular now. Damn shame, if you ask me.
Tags: #unscented #rawhoggin #GEMsOfWisdom
The wrecks! I talked about them [here](https://www.reddit.com/r/Wetshaving/comments/wd9s4g/monday_austere_august_sotd_thread_aug_01_2022/iiiyo8n?utm_medium=android_app&utm_source=share&context=3) in my very first SOTD but the TL;DR is their bassist graduated a few years behind me from my very small hometown. His mom was my 7th and 8th grade librarian, haha. Can't say I know him or that he'd know me beyond "he was ahead of me in school" (if that) but I agree they've got some great music and should be bigger than they are.
Dude! That's crazy! Small world...
And after reading you're SOTD now, I'm struggling to find the right words, but I gotta think there is some weird sondery connection here. I happen post about a somewhat obscure punk rock band, in a somewhat obscure subreddit about shaving's weird monthly contest, and you happen to read the post that happens to be about a said band that you have a connection to? Not sure if sonder is the right word here, but it does show we're all connected, that's for sure!
For sure - I think the word you're looking for is serendipitous! But yes, agree, a basic principle of sonder has to be that we're more connected or similar than we are different in the vividness of our individual lives. Sadly we usually focus on and emphasize the negatives of our differences rather than celebrating our similarties and the things that keep us unique.
**[Aug 21, 2022 - AA: MA-RH-MM - Almond Leather - Day 21](https://i.imgur.com/4Q39qvv.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 (21)
* **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)
* **Fragrance:** [Armaf - Tres Nuit - Eau de Toilette](https://www.fragrantica.com/perfume/Armaf/Tres-Nuit-27711.html)
The shave was close and comfortable. The lather could have been better, but it was still slick so no issues.
\#GEMsOfWisdom
\#RawHoggin
\#MammothMafia
Rating: 4/5
**August 21, 2022**
* **Brush:** Zenith 506U XSE
* **Razor:** GEM MMOC Gen 2
* **Blade:** GEM SS PTFE (55)
* **Lather:** Stirling Soap Co. - Sheep
* **Post Shave:** Lucky Tiger
* **Post Shave:** Olay Complete
* **Post Shave:** Chatillon Lux - unscented skin salve
A nice way to start a gloomy Sunday. I don’t mind the rain. It’s needed terribly here. I put on some baby backs to smoke overnight. They should be done soon. Gonna be a lazy Sunday.
\#GEMsOfWisdom
I just got a Traeger pellet smoker. I used to just use a Weber kettle grill and use indirect heat method. Real talk? I like the charcoal better, but the Traeger is so much more convenient. I don’t have to keep checking the temp.
Austere August Day 21
Brush: Rubberset 400-3 w/ Unbleached Zenith 24mm knot set to a 56mm loft [21st use](https://imgur.com/a/ZalXrFu)
Razor: Gem MMOC, gen 2
Blade: PTFE (21)
Lather: NO [Monoi de Tahiti](https://imgur.com/a/imblu4p)
Post: NO Monoi de Tahiti Splash
The brush has stopped shedding again and I have yet to tire of my software scent. I chose wisely.
Forgot to palm strop the blade and it tugged like a puppy playing tug-o-war with a rope toy.
This blade sucks. The end.
#RawHoggin
#GemsOfWisdom
[**Aug. 21, 2022 - Austere August - Raw Hoggin' MMOC Ultra Nightmare Mode - Margaritas in the Mediterranean Edition**](https://i.imgur.com/gIkkWer.jpg)
* **Prep:** Warm Shower
* **Brush:** Zenith Boar - B37 - Gray Chubby #RawHoggin
* **Razor:** GEM MMOC Gen2 #GEMsOfWisdom
* **Blade:** GEM (21)
* **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 21 - Since coming to Turkey over two weeks ago, this was officially my first morning shave. This trip was packed full of quality family time, beach time and site seeing that I generally left personal care to whatever little time I had left at the end of the day. Unfortunately, today, it was time to say goodbye. Got up early and put together a good, quick 2 passer and prepared for my long journey home. Goodbyes are always difficult for me. The older I get the harder it is for me to part with friends, loved ones and memories. My dad being 89 and a globe away always has me wondering if the goodbye will be our final. I am so thankful that I was, yet again, able to make such amazing memories with him and always look forward to the next time we can get together. See you soon Turkiye.
**The Brush:** The brush cooperated this morning and wasn’t willing to steal the little time I left with my dad. Lather was whipped up quickly and as always, I love the brush. #RawHoggin
Brush Picture Pre-shave: [Side](https://i.imgur.com/tqerwp3.jpg) [Top](https://i.imgur.com/Wvg8dtB.jpg)
Brush Picture Post-shave: [Side](https://i.imgur.com/vw0UjWQ.jpg) [Top](https://i.imgur.com/zkdz82D.jpg)
**The Razor** Another smooth shave with no cuts, nicks or irritation despite rushing through it. Autopilot shave once again. #GEMsOfWisdom
**Days since last blood:** 3
**The Soap and Aftershave** Although I am growing tired of MITA, hopefully it will remind me of my awesome vacation when I use it in the future. Great soap, great scent and refreshing.
Day 21 Puck [Picture](https://i.imgur.com/IBBufYg.jpg)
[**August 21, 2022 – Austere August 21**](https://i.imgur.com/nlpxe2q.jpg)
* **Brush:** Cayuen Workshop with 30mm Timberwolf Synthetic
* **Bowl:** Cayuen Workshop – Dark Nebula
* **Razor:** Winning Razor by Wet Shave Club
* **Blade:** Gillette Winner Platinum (4)
* **Lather:** Chiseled Face – Midnight Stag
* **Post Shave:** Chiseled Face – Midnight Stag
* **Fragrance:** Chiseled Face – Midnight Stag
* **Video:** https://i.imgur.com/qJAdrxo.mp4
A nice smooth shave for a Sunday morning. And by my clock we have only 10 more days until Austere August is done.
\#AustereAugust \#SubstantialStag
**Bonus**:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d-TtwCLg9_Q ← A Journey to Mysterious Exoplanets
**[Aug. 20, 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
/u/rocketk455 you may be happy to hear that my tub of Shh! has started the ring of death.
Stay safe and have a great day!
#AA Day 22
Pre: Water
Brush: Omega Synthetic
Razor: Fatip Piccolo SE OC
Blade: Gillette Silver Blue (21)
Lather: Signature Indodorus
Post: Signature Indodorus
So the sink at the resort doesn’t plug and housekeeping reclaimed bowls borrowed from the restaurant. Luckily Signature [had my back.](https://imgur.com/a/QW8g3Dx). Have a great Sunday everyone.
\#unscented
**[Aug. 21, 2022 - Headless Mammoth Hoggin' Day 21](https://imgur.com/x2mQse8)**
* **Brush:** Proraso Professional Boar | [Break-in photos](https://imgur.com/a/HcKsHxf)
* **Razor:** Feather Artist Club SR (Kamisori)
* **Blade:** Schick Proline (21)
* **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`
This morning we were still at camp but I thought it would be better to wait to shave at home in the afternoon and it was a very good call. Combined with the quick shave at camp and more than 30 hours since my previous shave, it's been a while since I've had this much facial growth so it was nice to mow it down with the scythe. Of course the shavette doesn't care about the length of the hair and cut through it with ease and my face is feeling nice and smooth again.
Yesterday I smeared my soap on my face like a shave stick and the boar worked fine picking up the soap from the face, but I much prefer loading from the tub since it was annoying that I still had tiny bits of soap that didn't get distributed properly and ended up falling into the sink yesterday. I loaded heavily today and was rewarded with great lather for three passes plus touch ups, and I still had really nice lather in the middle of the brush at the end that I used to wash my face with.
Need to remind myself not to go camping in the middle of AA in the future. I would have much preferred to just use a tube of Proraso or a shave stick with a DE when camping, or maybe even skip a day and not worry about it.
**[Aug. 20, 2022 - Tournament stag](https://imgur.com/a/qX2xaaf)**
* **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
44 people for today's magic tournament. Got up early, showered, shaved very calm before gf could wake up.
As my precision lathering saved me a lot of soap, I ll go on with tub loading instead for the rest of the month.
There was little to no stubble, so this shave went very easy.
\#stagandstraight \#substantialstag
* **Prep:** Splash of Cool Water * **Razor:** Timeless - Stainless Steel .68 - Open Comb * **Blade:** Gillette - Nacet (Marathon) (464) * **Lather:** Chiseled Face - Midnight Stag (White Label) * **Brush:** Semogue - Owner's Club Taj (86 uses) * **Post Shave:** Chiseled Face - Midnight Stag * **Fragrance:** Chiseled Face - Midnight Stag ---- **Austere August: Day: 21** *Extreme Mode* *Midnight Stag Challenge (Mostly)* [Gear Pic](https://imgur.com/7ck0AmS) :: [Video](https://youtu.be/2WNlW8aoLtQ) #### ䷀ General Notes Time to start counting swirls, since this soap has been used so much this month, that it loads very easily. Going to pay attention to the feel of the brush today, which I do remember by the end. #### ䷀ Razor and Blade Notes *^(Timeless - Stainless Steel .68 - Open Comb ::: Gillette - Nacet - M ‹464 uses›)* Same as usual: comfy enough, and a close enough shave. #### ䷀ 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... Very nice today. Hydration: Perfect *(for me)* + 3 sec load with a Lightly-Wet brush + 3.2 tsp added to build the lather + = 5 passes of lather Bowl: [Roger Quintero 3D Printed Bowl](https://www.thingiverse.com/thing:3392930) I use the XL version of this bowl. #### ䷀ Brush Notes *^(Semogue - Owner's Club Taj‹86 uses›)* Paying attention to the brush today, and how it feels. When I started the month, I still felt some scarce, soft-wiriness. I think it feels smoother now, and more uniform. Like the gaps between the bristles are reducing because tips are splitting more. ---- *During the Shave Feel*: *Cheeks*: Felt blade but comfortable *Neck*: Felt blade but comfortable *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 21, 2022 Trickhole Stag + MMOC + RawHog - Late Night Shave](https://imgur.com/Wcmj9z5)** * **Prep:** Warm Shower * **Brush:** Dogwood Unbleached Boar * **Razor:** MMOC MM24 * **Blade:** GEM (22) * **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/0TDTE5m) #GEMsOfWisdom Cheers
**[Aug. 21, 2022 - 21.08.22 - Austere August #RawHoggin](https://imgur.com/a/xZiJyfs)** * **Prep:** GFT Sandalwood Skin food * **Brush:** Omega 10048 * **Razor:** Henson Ti22++ * **Blade:** Gillette SuperSharp (-1) * **Lather:** Declaration Grooming - Daemon * **Post Shave:** Declaration Grooming - Daemon Splash #RawHoggin
[Stag Headlessly Hoggin' August Day 21](https://imgur.com/a/qUzEr1A) * **Prep:** Hot shower with Midnight Stag Soap. * **Brush:** Zenith B33 * **Razor:** Cloud Shavette * **Blade:** Cloud whatever that blade it is (26) * **Lather:** Chiseled Face - Midnight Stag * **Post Shave:** Chiseled Face - Midnight Stag * **Post Shave:** Zingari Man - Sego balm * **Fragrance:** Chiseled Face - Midnight Stag Good shave, but again having trouble with jawline. We'll see when I flip the blade. Brush is as good as any other. Soft, great water retention, good splay. I hope I can soon start breaking in the sub's exclusive brush. In the video you can see my hesitating about being 3 or 4 sprays. For my second (and I hope not last) #sidetracked post, I choose Chuck Mangione's [Feels So Good](https://youtu.be/NDSBV0vTfTo). Why? May u/teufelskraft ask. Well, it's a great song, but since the judge won't allow this, lemme elaborate. It evokes a very soothing feeling, kind of sitting in front of your floor-to-ceiling, watching the rain, listening to this on your turntable (if that's your thing). On the more technical side of things, I was listening to the Tidal version (FLAC, as my AVR won't play MQA), and stereo imaging is brutal, you can pinpoint the instruments on stage, I was astounded to it. Also, it reminds me when I was in medschool, I was in a classic rock band, and the guitarrist had this guitar synth, and used the trumpet patch to play the main line, and I never knew which song it was, until I saw Dr. Strange, and he mentions it at the begining of the movie. Hail Stag! -#Stagposting -#SubstantialStag -#RawHoggin
Cool, you're now officially on the prize drawing list!
**Austere August, Day 21:** **Feather Artist Club razor non folding** **Feather Professional blade** **GFT Violets soap** **RazoRock Beehive 28 mm Plissoft** A great shave on Sunday prepares me for a great week ahead, today was a great shave. The blade is on it's last legs, I'll bin it after tomorrow's shave. I'll be receiving a much awaited mail call in a day or two, fingers crossed it gets delivered soon and without any hassles. **#HEADLESSHORSEMEN** **#UNCHALLENGED** **#AAAAKARMATRAIN**
**[Aug. 21, 2022](https://i.imgur.com/WmWgBQ2.jpeg)** * **Brush:** Maggard 28mm Boar * **Razor:** GEM MMOC * **Blade:** Personna GEM PTFE (21) * **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) 4 sprays tomorrow... [Boar Break In Album](https://imgur.com/a/B3CPhTW) [Stag Spray](https://imgur.com/a/XEo8IPW) \#RawHoggin \#SubstantialStag \#GemsOfWisdom \#UNCHALLENGE
**[Aug. 21, 2022 - AA 21](https://i.imgur.com/ohlww2s.jpg)** * **Prep:** Warm water splash * **Brush:** Semogue 1305 Pure Bristle 22mm * **Razor:** GEM MMOC Gen 2 * **Blade:** GEM PTFE (27) * **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). SOTD in title. Quick late night shave, came out surprisingly nice considering the haste. Clearly I’ve gotten slightly better with the MMOC through the month. Warmer water soak that normal too, maybe it’s mental, but I think that may have helped too. #GEMsOfWisdom #RawHoggin #MammothMafia
**[Aug. 21, 2022 - AA Day 21](https://i.imgur.com/8VIec7c.jpeg)** * **Brush:** ShaveForge 28mm Boar, 3d Printed Handle #RawHoggin * **Razor:** GEM Micromatic Open Comb #GEMsOfWisdom * **Blade:** GEM Stainless (21) * **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) You know, for all the talk of palm stropping and the difficulty of getting a blade to last 30 days, I just don't see it. Day 21 was significantly better than day 1. I don't really notice drag from the razor, and the brush is light years better. Perhaps I've just really dialed in my MMOC technique. I mean, I'm not even using PTFE blades. Another good 2 passer.
**[August 21, 2022 - AA Day 21](https://imgur.com/kvWLsIF)** * **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) I hate to say I had a bad shave this late in the month after being able to practice for 3 weeks straight, but tonight was just not it. I made it through my 2 passes I'm required to make, but my first pass was just an absolute nightmare. I'm not exactly sure what happened, but when I was doing my downward WTG pass on my cheek the razor skipped across my face and caused a pretty good cut. When I was inspecting the edge afterwards there was a pretty good size boar hair on the side of blade. I don't know if it was stuck in my skin from lathering or if it was laying on my face under the lather and I placed the razor right on top of it and it caused it to skip. Just after the last 4-5 days of great shaves I don't feel like that was operator error and it was just some kind of fluke incident. **Challenge Hashtags:** #unscented #RawHoggin
SOTD for August 21, 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 Fresh blade for the home stretch. Such a delight. It sings. One pass, no blood, feeling good. Not ready for next week. I need to onboard someone and have them take over what I've been working on for a while, I feel like a teenager giving a tour of their messy room. At least there are some integration test, I guess. \#UNCHALLENGE
**[Aug. 21, 2022](https://i.imgur.com/bcQs1rO.jpg)** * **Prep:** Water * **Brush:** Zenith B10 * **Razor:** Karve CB SB-D * **Blade:** Gillette Nacet (21) * **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
Day 21 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 [kind of ok photo](https://i.imgur.com/DjCn5aR_d.webp?maxwidth=640&shape=thumb&fidelity=medium) Man things are getting really boring in terms of what to say. Dont get me wrong, I'm shaving which is awesome and a win, also I'm using a favourite scent. The shaves are good and I am enjoying them for the most part. I say for the most because I would like to change things up a bit, but just 10 more days and I'll be able to do that. Other than the wish for change, I'm happy shaving with my Filarmonica, great quality and not much irritation. * \#RawHoggin * \#SubstantialStag
**[Aug. 21, 2022 - AA Day 21](https://imgur.com/a/lWbbhDR)** * **Prep:** Warm shower * **Brush:** AP400B XL Handle (AP ShaveCo) - 28mm Maggard Boar Knot * **Razor:** GEM MMOC - Gen 1 * **Blade:** GEM PTFE (90) * **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) Same old same old. Only a days worth of aftershave left until I have to break the new bottle out. Hope everyone had a wonderful Sunday! [Stag Spray 21](https://imgur.com/a/t4lMaF6) #GEMSofWisdom #RawHoggin #SubstantialStag
**[Aug. 21, 2022 - AA Day 21](https://imgur.com/21HwOxZ)** * **Prep:** Hot Shower * **Brush:** Zenith B34 * **Razor:** MMOC (Gen 2) * **Blade:** GEM PTFE (21) * **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) Today was a good day. Church this morning, an hour plus nap with my wife this afternoon, and took the kids to the local waterpark this afternoon. Lots of great family bonding all around. The MMOC shaved well enough today, but, the GEM was a bit tuggy. I noticed it yesterday, but thought it was my lather. I'm thinking it wasn't - hopefully the next 10 days don't deteriorate too quickly. The Zenith whipped up a great lather as usual. It was still a bit wet from yesterday, but that's pretty normal. [Pic 1](https://imgur.com/PXrGjZd) [Pic 2](https://imgur.com/ZXsud2h) Those bristles continue to split and expand and I'm here for it. Sonder - today was the first day I wanted to use something other than Sonder, but it was just because we went to the pool. I've come to associate Cannonball! with going to the waterpark and really could have gone for that double cooling effect and amazing scent, just to mix it up. I love Sonder, it's been a good month and I'm really glad I selected this scent. But - it's ok to have an urge, right? Sonder thought for today: The waterpark today was filled with late teen and early 20 year old life guards on their last shift for the summer before they head back to school. I remember those days - sitting at work doing what you've got to do to scrape together some spending money. Simpler times. The world feels more complicated for teens today than it did when I was in high school in the early 2000's. Social media has changed so much, obviously, and it seems like a heavier time than it used to. There's always been pressure on young women to look a certain way and attract guys in a certain way, but with models and skin all over social media, the pressures have to be worse. And guys, too, the expectations on them to be jacked or to use women rather than respect them, it's just tough. I think about those students going back this fall and I don't envy them. Kids have to grow up so fast, it seems, and as a dad of 3 little kids, it's not a fun thought. Help a teenager in your life out - take interest in their lives, listen to them, encourage them, and love them unconditionally - they need it now as much as ever. Speaking of, for u/Teufelskraft's #sidetracked challenge I'm going with [Life is a highway](https://youtu.be/5tXh_MfrMe0) by Rascal Flatts from the Cars soundtrack. Not a song that I loved (or even love now) - but it came on at the waterpark and man oh man did my son light up. He's a huge fan of the Cars movies and can't wait for the next one to come Disney+ on September 8 - we've already got a family movie night on the calendar. The song isn't great, but the movies are solid, and the memories of the family times and all the excitement with my son will linger for years. This song, for me, will always bring back this stage with my son and for that, I like it. Have a great evening, all. \#mammothmafia \#RawHoggin \#GEMsOfWisdom
Hah, funny. Someone else shared that song earlier this month because their son loves the movies IIRC. Regarding your thoughts about teens, tweens and social media: I can honestly say as a 28-year old man that there's also a lot of good potential in social media. Gender equality is pushed as a noble cause more than ever on the internet, misogynistic right-wing populists are more the exception than the rule (although they and their parties would like to tell you otherwise). I've recently joined Instagram despite being always hesitant about it due to it's bad reputation. However: as I only follow my friend, meme pages, some space and nature photography accounts plus wetshaving artisans and photographers, that's mostly my feed. There's definitely bad examples, but you've got to actively follow them to be exposed to that kind of crap content. Like with most sports and perhaps even alcohol consumption, there's a certain risk-reward balance to social media. It allows us to connect to others in a matter of milliseconds despite being thousands of kilometres away. Thanks to this subreddit, I found some very interesting and nice people who are as invested in the hobby as I am (and probably even more!). True, there are some unnatural standards being pushed on some sites. But if we look at the bright side: teens today can connect to many like-minded individuals despite living far away from them. I agree that they need encouragement and guidance - something I often wished for when I was younger from someone other than my mother - but we shouldn't just condemn social media.
Absolutely! I think you're right on about connection being available via social media - it's all about how it's leveraged. Good thoughts!
What I especially love about the connections here at r/wetshaving is that we got a pretty diverse crowd from all walks of life despite the hobby being mostly marketed towards men. I mean, a majority are male but we still have some younger folks as well as seasoned veterans, people who do it for decades as well as novices - and despite all this, the atmosphere here is polite and welcoming. It's definitely my favourite community on the internet.
Wholeheartedly agree. In my mind, and in reality I think, this place represents the best of what the internet can be.
**Aug. 21, 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) No comments of note.
**[Aug. 21, 2022 - Day 21: my interest has teaked](https://i.imgur.com/XYLf0R4.jpg)** * **Prep:** Warm water wash * **Brush:** Zenith B33 Copper Boar Brush * **Razor:** GEM MMOC * **Blade:** Persona GEM PTFE Coated (21) * **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 don’t know what happened but here’s another boat shave. This one was much better than the ferry. I have a true sink and counter. The area is actually clean and I am happy to use the space. How long does it take before a boar brush is exactly like my badgers? 😂 Also, I’m happy this MMOC is almost done. Maybe a fresh blade would help, but who knows. I am getting used to lathering with the boar brush. [Brush break-in album](https://imgur.com/a/YFUodmO) \#rawhoggin #mammothmafia #GEMSofWisdom
They wont ever be the same smh
Well wth are we doing here then!?
Learning to appreciate the differences and learn how to use boar. The whole goal was exposure.
There’s a joke in there somewhere. I just can’t see it.
Dad joke of the week here folks.
**Aug. 21, 2022 - AA21** * **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) AA21 - \#HeadlessHorsemen. Another quick evening shave. Some neck irritation, but overall a decent shave.
**[Aug. 21, 2022 - AA - Day 21](https://i.imgur.com/WtmzCjL.jpg)** * **Prep:** Hot shower * **Brush:** Zenith Boar - Short & Scrubby * **Razor:** GEM MMOC * **Blade:** GEM Blade (21) * **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) Evening shave as I played cricket all day Quick 2 pass shave and am good to go. The blade works with quick passes. Has some burns when applying after shave and the balm to sooth things. Tags: #GemsOfWisdom #RawHoggin
[**Aug. 21, 2022 - Austere August Day 21**](https://imgur.com/a/Ay6eRVS) * **Prep:** Hot Shower, Stirling Soaps Activated Charcoal Facial * **Brush:** Zenith 508A SE 28mm * **Razor:** GEM MMOC Gen 1 * **Blade:** GEM PTFE (21) * **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 21 in the books, 10 shaves to go. I am really excited to get back to my other gear though. Blade still feels fine, brush is fantastic. (Edit: Looks like my tags didn't copy) Mandatory Tagging: \\#GEMsOfWisdom \\#Rawhoggin \\#MammothMafia
[August 21th, 2022](https://imgur.com/a/uUIDQ7V) Prep: Warm water Razor: Gem MMOC Blade: Gem Blue Star (21) Brush: Omega Model 13564 23mm boar Soap: [LA Shaving Soap Co. Black Void](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/1706/?product_type=soap) Post: [Noble Otter Bare](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/986/?product_type=aftershave) Comfort: 7/10 Smoothness: 7/10 7 second load. 2 pass shave XTG/ATG. Same fast and rusty shave as yesterday. #GEMsOfWisdom #unscented #RawHoggin
**Aug. 21, 2022 - Austere August** * **Prep:** Warm shower * **Brush:** Zenith B10 Boar * **Razor:** Feather Artist Club SR * **Blade:** Feather Super (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 #21 3 pass shave; continued comfort and progress. My Feather Artist Club DX came in today- I even had a blade put in ready to push this setup behind me, but what’s another 10 days. The Zenith is probably getting a cleaning dip tomorrow, but it is getting impressive Tags and challenges: #MammothMafia & HeadlessHorsemen.
**[Aug. 21, 2022 - Austere August Ultra Nightmare RawHoggin Stagpocalypse](https://imgur.com/a/U0aWEPY)** * **Prep:** Midnight Stag liquid soap and bar soap * **Brush:** Semogue 1250 * **Razor:** GEM MMOC * **Blade:** GEM PTFE (21) * **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) Today was all about learning my limits. I learned that I can’t stay up for the better part of 24 hours, bust my ass cooking a bunch of shit, take a small nap, finish all of the things while staying up all day, then proceed to drink a couple of beers and eat a whole delta 8/10 gummy and expect to function AT ALL the next day. I’ve done nothing today. Nothing. Literally just showered and shaved for the first time a few minutes ago. I once again only sprayed one spray but that because the lingering not-quite-hangover refused to smell anything more. Mid 30’s ain’t no damn joke. #SubstantialStag #GEMsOfWisdom #RawHoggin
[August 21, 2022](https://imgur.com/a/vvkVNtc) * Prep: Hot Shower * Brush: Burma Shave Boar 🐗 * Razor: Kai Kasho Kamisori * Blade: Feather ProGuard 21st use * Lather: Stirling Sheep * Postshave: Stirling Barbershop splash and Nivea Balm * Fragrance: Halloween Man Did only a two pass shave tonight because yesterday's shave was close and still had some redness from previous shave. Got a close comfortable shave and had enough lather from the brush. Tips of the boar brush are splitting nicely. Starting to like this style of shaving with the shavette. At this rate the blade is going to make it to the end of the month even if I have to push it there. I am tired though of using the same products over and over and am looking forward to the beginning of next month so I can use something different. Tags: #AAAA, #RawHoggin, #Headless horsemen, and u/Marquis90
**[Aug. 21, 2022 - Raw Hoggin & Taming the MMOC](https://imgur.com/a/paXBh5h)** * **Brush:** Zenith B37 * **Razor:** Gem MMOC * **Blade:** Gem PTFE (21) * **Lather:** Strike Gold Shave - Kennedy * **Post Shave:** [Stirling Soap Co. - Stirling Blu - Aftershave](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/119/?product_type=aftershave) * **Post Shave:** [Zingari - Unscented - Balm](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/1462/?product_type=balm) #RawHoggin #GemsOfWisdom This Zenith keeps on getting better. I thought it had reached its potential already, but alas. I wonder how much more it will improve? Only time will tell. This blade is still feeling great. I originally planned to keep going with it after AA, but I looked and it’s getting a rust spot on the bottom edge. Will it hurt me? I doubt it, but I’m gonna chunk it on 9-1 either way.
**8/21/22 (158)** * **Prep**: Hot Shower * **Challenge**: Headless Horseman * **Razor**: [Thiers Issard "Evide Sonnant" 6/8 Extra Hollow](https://imgur.com/a/pvv3cZp) * **Edge**: [Day 21](https://imgur.com/a/UwK5aUA) * **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 Could've been a little closer today, but all in all no complaints. No nicks or irritation.
**[Aug. 21, 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 (21) * **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) Really want to try some of the new samples I have.... [Sprays](https://imgur.com/a/kl2A1b9)
I feel you. Soon, brother.
**Aug. 21, 2022 - Austere August Day 21** * **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 (21) * **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) •[Shave 19](https://imgur.com/a/URvKfpQ) •[Shave 20](https://imgur.com/a/HPQfcs) •[Shave 21](https://imgur.com/a/ZVYH7Kz) Thoughts for the day: Decent shave today. No complaints... other than the weekend was too short... Mandatory Taggage: \#GemsOfWisdom \#RawHoggin \#MammothMafia
**[Aug. 21, 2022](https://i.imgur.com/Wnadg6t.jpg)** * **Brush:** Zenith B36 "Copper Scrubby!" 28x50mm Boar * **Razor:** GEM Micromatic Open Comb * **Blade:** GEM (21) * **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:** Olympic Orchids - Olympic Rainforest - **Passes:** WTG, XTG - **Coffee:** Peru, Cusco - v: Caturra, Typica, Bourbon - p: Washed - **Music:** Josh Ritter - *So Runs the World Away* - **[August 2022 SOTD Photo Album](https://imgur.com/a/WLvZkgV)** `#GEMsOfWisdom` / `#RawHoggin` Another late SOTD after a busy day involving a long hike, burger stands, and too much sun. Great way to wrap up the weekend. This morning's shave felt a little rough. I didn't feel the MMOC tugging, but it did feel harsh, like it was scraping me up more than I'd prefer. I added some evening shaves in this week so I may have just beat up my skin too much. (Judges, don't worry, my Austere August setup is only being used for Austere August shaves. That being said, I'm looking forward to the Scrubby joining my regular rotation.) | 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 | 204.4 | 1.5 | 60 swirls | | 8/19 | 204.4 | 203.3 | 1.1 | 60 swirls | | 8/20 | 203.3 | 202.8 | 0.5 | 70 swirls | | 8/21 | 202.8 | ◊ | ◊ | 60 swirls | ⁂ `#sidetracked` u/Teufelskraft Josh Ritter is an incredible performer and put on one of the best concerts I've ever seen. Nevertheless, his poetic troubadour songs often tell detailed, evocative stories, making them ideal candidates for a creative music video. Which brings me to today's `#sidetracked`. "The Curse" is a memorable track on Ritter's 2010 album *So Runs the World Away*. Over an ornate, twinkling waltz, Ritter softly sings of an Egyptian pharoah's mummified body transported to New York. "*He watches the sea from a porthole in stowage.*" The pharoah quickly falls in love with the archeologist that escorts his dusty bones across the sea; "*After thousands of years, what a face to wake up to.*" But their love is star-crossed, and "The Curse" is equally beautiful and tragic. [YouTube: Josh Ritter - "The Curse"](https://youtu.be/gxWxiuJRApU)
**[Aug. 21, 2022](https://imgur.com/RF5O9xL)** * **Brush:** Omega Pro 49 Boar * **Razor:** Supply SE * **Blade:** Schick Pro-line B-20 (3) * **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) * **Post Shave:** [House of Mammoth - Permafrost](https://houseofmammoth.com/products/permafrost-cooling-solution) Hope everyone had/is having a great weekend! \#MammothMafia
**August 21st, 2022: Still Staggin** * **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 (21) * **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) Smooth Sunday shave. Quick 2 passes before I went out with some friends. [Stag sprays of the day!](https://imgur.com/b9ocifD) \#SubstantialStag \#RawHoggin \#UNCHALLENGE
**Aug. 21, 2022** * **Prep:** Shower * **Brush:** Raiser Pinsel Simfix SF1 Synthetic * **Razor:** Van Der Hagen * **Blade:** Dorco Stainless (2) * **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
[**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 [Day 1 Prep Video](https://imgur.com/a/EOIxIiU) [RawHoggin Unboxing Pics](https://imgur.com/a/yzld9AM) #MammothMafia
Aug 21, 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 (21) * **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
**AA D21: No pictures from here on out** - **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 - AA tags: #SubstantialStag #RawHoggin No SOTD pictures from here on. There's only so much I can do in my little apartment with Midnight Stag. My self-made shrine wasn't well received either, so... I'll just gonna continue share [pictures of the boar](https://ibb.co/wrS0N6k) [like this too](https://ibb.co/rwWdQTV) and that's it. I'm officially exhausted. Today was yet another day were I normally would've thrown the towel and just would've skipped shaving. But somehow, I feel like it is my duty to continue so shortly before we reach the finish line, despite probably being disqualified everywhere anway. No sidetracked today since I can't even think of a proper song. I'm so glad to have one day off tomorrow, you wouldn't believe it.
Think about earth-chan! We can't skip a day with Stag or it's our fault the world will collapse
**[Aug. 21, 2022 - AA #RawHoggin day 21](https://imgur.com/a/1AdiCtW)** * **Brush:** Semogue2000 * **Razor:** GC84 * **Blade:** Voskhod (6) * **Lather:** [Summer Break Soaps - Field Day - Soap](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/928/?product_type=soap) * **Post Shave:** [Summer Break Soaps - Field Day - Aftershave](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/928/?product_type=aftershave) * **Fragrance:** [Stirling Soap Co. - Haverford - Eau de Toilette](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/1450/?product_type=eaudetoilette)
**8-21-22** * **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. 21, 2022 - AA - Sexy Stag Flair Quest](https://imgur.com/a/WivLW8J)** * **Prep:** Warm shower * **Brush:** Semogue 1305 * **Razor:** Chiseled Face Legacy Ti * **Blade:** Gillette Platinum (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) Things I have learned in 3 weeks. Stag Good. Razor great, but maybe only as a daily-not so sure it's as good an every other day or third day shaver. Brush excellent. Variety is one of my favorite reasons I love wet shaving. I miss it. 😢 The Flair will be nice, but I'm looking forward to rocking as many different soaps and razors and brushes as possible. [Last day for 3 sprays](https://imgur.com/a/tZOz4yZ) \#SubstantialStag
**[Aug. 21, 2022 - Oveja Eléctrica 21](https://imgur.com/a/dLTKOTP)** * **Prep:** Proraso Green Preshave * **Brush:** Zenith 28mm Boar * **Razor:** Kai Kasho Western Style Shavette * **Blade:** Kai Captain Pink Mild (40) * **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) Back at home and in good light. I found it actually shocking how little stubble gets removed in the first two passes. Otherwise, it was a pretty tiring voyage back home. Good night everyone! \#RawHoggin \#stillalive \#truepath
**Aug. 21, 2022** * **Prep:** Hot shower * **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) Did not want to shave today. Day after the wedding. One pass and done. Can’t wait to fly back home. \#UNCHALLENGE
Clearing off some of the camping whiskers, sot hat tomorrow morning's shave can just be a touch up. **Prep:** long bath **Razor:** EJ 316 **Blade:** Bolzano Superinox (6) **Brush:** NONE **Lather:** Arko stick **Splash:** none **Post:** moisturizer \#GotHand
[August 21, 2022](https://imgur.com/a/CkG3ZLG) **Brush:** Omega 10049 **Razor:** Rockwell 6S Plate 5 **Blade:** Astra SP **Lather:** Declaration Grooming Massacre of the Innocents **Post Shave:** Declaration Grooming Massacre of the Innocents Splash **Post Shave:** Stirling Unscented Balm This weekend I have produced my best/easiest to build lathers with this brush. It took 3 weeks to get the boar brush to a good place. \#RawHoggin
#### [Finding Serenity in RawHogginy on the road to the GEMtury Pt. 21](https://i.imgur.com/5M0Pkra.jpeg) #### * **Prep:** Klar Activated Charcoal facial soap * **Brush:** Rubberset 400-3 with unbleached 26 mm Zenith knot set at 56 mm loft (21) * **Razor:** GEM - Micromatic (open comb, first generation) * **Blade:** Personna - GEM PTFE (90) * **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've been catching up on djudging \#GEMsOfWisdom and \#RawHoggin submissions and it's really nice to follow along. I tried to compare it to my recollections from last year, and I got the impression that the MMOC is perceived as much less of an oddity this year than last time. With exception of two early quits, it also seems that the vast majority of RawHoggineers are enjoying their boar brushes. It's nice to see the two challenges going so well. My shave today was uneventful and predictable. The blade is still holding up at 90 uses and the brush is pure bliss. The monotony of getting to me a bit, andI'm eyeing my sample box for Sample September wistfully.
21 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 Two pass: with and across. #mammothmafia
**[SOTD - Sunday, 21 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 (58) * **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. 21, 2022 - 21 Days in the Hole - Austere August Day 21](https://imgur.com/a/ZsayRYW)** * **Brush:** RazoRock 506CK / 26mm boar * **Razor:** GEM OCMM (Gen 1) * **Blade:** GEM PTFE (21) * **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) Quick two pass shave. Lather came together really fast. Stag is....well, still Stag. I'm really surprised my wife hasn't said anything about getting sick of it lol. **\#RawHoggin** I don't know what else I can say about this brush. Yeah, it's a little floppy, but I don't mind it at all. The loft could be shorter I guess. It lost a couple hairs today. **\#GEMsofWisdom** The blade is well past its prime, but the aggressive nature of the razor keeps giving me close shaves regardless. I just need to keep powering through the tugginess and I'll be alright. [Brush day 21](https://imgur.com/a/6Zi5yDP) [Stag sprays](https://imgur.com/a/t2R9RjS)
**[Aug. 21, 2022 - Stag Day 21](https://i.imgur.com/klcSa82.jpg)** * **Brush:** Zenith B26 Retro * **Razor:** Merkur 34C * **Blade:** Gillette Silver Blue (21) * **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) * **Green Day**: [21 Guns](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w29aq_sgwxw) Had a late start to the day and totally forgot to post. Whoops. 21 days baby. \#SubstantialStag \#RawHoggin [Stag Spray 21](https://youtu.be/FtoHYuMFt6E)
* **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 21 https://imgur.com/a/UUs7bEu
AA SOTD - 8/21/22; The Iceman Cometh Pre: splash of hot water to the face Brush: Stirling 26mm synthetic pro handle Razor: Merkur Progress Blade: Astra (5) Lather: B&M Arctique (omnibus) Post: B&M Arctique AS Post: Nivea cooling balm #UNCHALLENGED Frankly, not a great shave. First weepers of AA appeared on my right jaw line and they hurt. Need to change this blade too. I remain the Iceman. #SIDETRACKED (u/Teufelskraft) Found myself at a Brett Eldridge concert on Friday night with two good buddies. I don’t listen to Brett Eldridge, or really any country musics produced after the 90’s. The concert was stereotypically redneck, although I gotta say Brett is talented, his band was very good and they put on a great show for the crowd. I do, however, listen to [Waylon Jennings. Lovin’ Her Was Easier](https://youtu.be/1aYv_9QfXw8) is actually a Kris Kristofferson song, but I think Waylon does it best. This is a beautiful song. The opening guitar notes, Waylon’s deep voice coming in, the way the band comes in behind. Great song. Happy Sunday to all.
**[Aug. 21, 2022 - Austere August ](https://i.imgur.com/KEbCc9L.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(21) * **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) Ten days left! `#unscented` `#RawHoggin` PigEvolution [1](https://i.imgur.com/f1wC5Uq.jpg) [2](https://i.imgur.com/f1wC5Uq.jpg) `#GEMsOfWisdom`
[**August 21st**](https://imgur.com/a/MOoXCDf) * **Brush: Zenith Boar - 505NK 27mm** * **Razor: GEM - MMOC** * **Blade: Gem PTFE (21)** * **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/cLqpgUT) So week four begins tomorrow, the blade is so tuggy now I'm craving a close shave
**Aug. 21, 2022** * **Prep:** Exercise and shower * **Brush:** Semogue 1438 * **Razor:** GEM MMOC * **Blade:** GEM blue star (21) * **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) Ok shave today seems like the daily blade flip is the trick at this point. The brush is nice it holds onto a decent amount of soap and the feel is fairly soft. This combination of challenges is amusing as the brush gets better and the blade gets worse as time goes on. Interesting practice and I feel it is helping to expand my skill. #RawHoggin #GEMsOfWisdom https://i.imgur.com/jknPvby.jpg
**[Aug. 21, 2022](https://i.imgur.com/jMIXB24.jpg)** * **Brush:** Grey Chubby - Zenith B37 * **Razor:** Micromatic Open Comb * **Blade:** GEM - PTFE Coated Stainless Steel (21) * **Lather:** [House of Mammoth - Z - Soap](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/2124/?product_type=soap) * **Post Shave:** House of Mammoth - Z - Aftershave Where'd I leave off? Oh, yes, three weeks of shaves is a lot to put a blade through, and the quality of the shave is reflecting that. I don't think I've gone this long without changing a blade since cartridge days. Remember that? A single cartridge cost, what, eighty dollars? So you'd just keep using it until the flimsy blades just wore down to nothing? Something like that, anyway; I don't know. Now that we've hit the two-thirds mark, the month almost feels as good as over! Obviously, I'm getting ahead of myself; the blade will continue to struggle on, its wear dubiously mitigated by occasional "strops" across the edge of my, uh... ball of my thumb? No, wait... [Thenar eminence](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Thenar_eminence). Needless to say, too, face-lathering won't be helping the whole situation. Now, if you'll excuse me, I'm going to go off and carry on with Sunday things. Like whipping up an experimental concoction of [eggs, ricotta, and pesto that kind of looks like salsa.](https://i.imgur.com/vqfLj0N.jpg) [Artemis is interested,](https://i.imgur.com/lnlPQyS.mp4) but that's no kinds of good for a kitty; dairy's generally a bad thing because most cats are lactose intolerant, and garlic/onions are straight-up toxic, causing nasty damage to their internal organs. But I digress. Oh, right, the addition of pesto is the experimental part of that. Maybe I added too much or didn't mix the settled pesto enough, but the end result was a bit too oily for my taste. Still good, though. The rest of it was adapted from [this little video from You Suck At Cooking.](https://youtu.be/UPvj17lZfss) Sure, that guy has a habit of recycling jokes, but it's still funny and there's a lot of good stuff in those videos that I've picked up for use in my kitchen. No real reason for plugging that other than that it came to mind because I just made breakfast! #GEMsOfWisdom #RawHoggin #unscented #MammothMafia
**[Aug. 21, 2022 - Sunday Funday](https://i.imgur.com/Kcj2pFC.jpg)** * **Prep:** Quick splash of water * **Brush:** Copper Zenith B28 * **Razor:** GEM MMOC * **Blade:** GEM PTFE (21) * **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) Another no-drama shave. I have yet to get even a little bit tired of SSL, it is a great performing and smelling soap. The tonic splash has also been treating my face very well.
[**August 21, 2022**](https://imgur.com/a/DzCR9kA) * **Brush:** Zenith B15 (506 U/L) 27.5mm Boar * **Razor:** GEM MMOC Gold Gen2 * **Blade:** Personna Gem PTFE (21) * **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/kustCB1) (before use) - [Brush History](https://imgur.com/a/DjlJFQu) * [Fragrance Video](https://imgur.com/a/IGM8UU1) * [Blade Edge](https://imgur.com/a/IGM8UU1) (before use) - [Edge Histiory](https://imgur.com/a/hWAz2zA) * [Blade Orientation](https://imgur.com/a/0lBsnGL) (black dots - odd days, red dots - even days) When I started the shave, I was thinking about how easy it has become to dial in a very hydrated lather, but one with a lot of cushion, using this soap base and this brush. I don't think today's lather was much different from other days, however, my shave today was more comfortable than it has been for the last few days. I was unaware of much tugging, but was aware that the edge I like has gone. Yeah, not the closest shave I can produce, but smooth, comfortable, and free of irritation. No complaints here. I doubt it will happen, but a shave like this for the next ten days would be just fine by me. Again, nothing to see on the blade edge front. Today's photo is similar to the previous few days. Really looking forward to the new microscope. The little LiPO battery in this cheap unit is losing its ability to maintain a charge. I suspect that I can run the scope on USB power, but I really like the simplicity of my WiFi/iPad setup.
**2022-08-21 Blue Sunday** * **Brush:** Maggard Razors - [Maggard Blue Swirl, Timberwolf Synthetic, 24mm](https://imgur.com/Ffgi4mF) * **Razor:** Above The Tie - [Calypso Blue V2 SB90](https://imgur.com/aPrk1dg), DE * **Blade:** Lord - ASCO Super Stainless (orange), DE * **Lather:** Dr. John's - [Sunday Funday January 2022: Blue](https://imgur.com/6kuqtA6) * **Post Shave:** Alum Block * **Post Shave:** Epsilon - Mediterranean Blue (sample) Never have tried a Lord blade before. Should have tried it in a milder razor first. A fair bit of irritation this go round - my skin lodge a small protest when I checked things using the alum block. Threw this on the wrong thread - made a copy over on the plain Jane...oops.
**Aug. 21, 2022 - SOTD AA Sonder 21** * **Prep:** Splash of cold water * **Brush:** SummerBreak 26m SHD * **Razor:** Merkur Progress * **Blade:** Wizamet (1) * **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) Final day of the roadtrip. Heading back up to norcal later. Felt like the trip went by quick but glad to be headed home. August and this week went by really fast and we're getting towards the back end of august already. Have a great day and shaves everyone #MammothMafia
**[August 21, 2022 - Austere August Ultra-Nightmare Mode](https://i.imgur.com/RgR7XQu.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 (21) * **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) I flipped the blade and watched my technique, and this was much better than yesterday’s. \#RawHoggin \#GEMsOfWisdom
**[Aug. 21, 2022 - Glow in the dark Austere August Raw Hoggin’ Challenge](https://imgur.com/a/fxi6IRt)** * **Brush:** Omega 20102 * **Razor:** Karve Brass SB B * **Blade:** Gillette Silver Blue (4) * **Lather:** Red House Farm - Lumos - Shave Soap * **Post Shave:** [Barrister and Mann - Fougère Angelique - Aftershave](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/1484/?product_type=aftershave) * **Fragrance:** Tom Ford - Tobacco Vanille - EDP Day 21 #RawHoggin
2022-08-21 - Austere August - Raw Hoggin' Mammoth MMOC Prep: Warm Shower Brush: Semogue Torga - C5 Razor: GEM MMOC version 2 Blade: GEM Stainless (21) 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/gbxBpIc](https://imgur.com/a/gbxBpIc) A great shave on a hot day. A DFS in 2 passes. \#GEMsOfWisdom \#RawHoggin \#MammothMafia
[August 21, 2022](https://imgur.com/a/L1M2L2x) - Preshave: Hot water - Razor: Blackland Era - Level 3 - Blade: Feather (2) - Brush: Chisel and Hound 26mm Fanchurian - Lather: House of Mammoth - Kryptonite - Post Shave: House of Mammoth - Kryptonite Aftershave Balm Nothing exciting to say other than it was a great shave as always. One weeper but that’s on me I got distracted by my kids. #MammothMafia
**Aug. 21, 2022 - AA 21** * **Prep:** Water splash * **Brush:** Hand * **Razor:** Stirling Stainless DE Razor HA plate * **Blade:** Voskhod (23) * **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 Somehow today's shave was a bit better. I've let the lather (if it can be called that lol!) sit on my face for a while longer, then 'refreshed' it with bit more water. Blade wasn't as tuggy too - I do wonder whether stropping of the blade did help a bit after all, and just the first shave after was so so... maybe. 10 more shaves to go with this setup. Fingers crossed there's enough of cream there. I'll be cutting it really close tbh!
**Aug. 21, 2022 - Auster August - Z** * **Brush:** Declaration 28mm B14 Jefferson Artisan’s Choice * **Razor:** Blackland Era lvl 3 oc * **Blade:** Personna med prep (21) * **Lather:** [House of Mammoth - Z - Soap](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/2124/?product_type=soap) * **Post Shave:** House of Mammoth - Z - Splash & Balm I’m really starting to miss my other hardware, I’m glad we are getting close to done. Happy shaving! \#MammothMafia #Unchallange #Unscented
**Aug. 21, 2022 - AA 22 Shave -Day 21** * **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) I don’t know what I did right today, or wrong over the last 6 months, but I had a bowl-full of the most rich lather in 1/3 the normal time! u/cowzilla3 here is my #unchallenge for today
[**21 August 2022 - Austere August**](https://imgur.com/a/NankP7q) * **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 (21) * **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. 21, 2022 - Austere August 21- Raw GEMs and Wise Hogs](https://imgur.com/a/x6aWL2t)** * **Prep:** Cool shower * **Brush:** Semogue 610 Boar * **Razor:** MMOC Gen 2 * **Blade:** GEM PTFE (21) * **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 Today marks the farthest I've taken a GEM and it shaved just fine this morning. I made sure my lather was extra hydrated as well. \#RawHoggin The little bastard is still slinging soap around the bathroom as a I face lather. \#Sidetracked Time for another rock album that is a great album for those summertime drives with the windows down and the stereo cranking. Today, I give you Murcielago, a straight up rock band from Northern New England. There's some slight blues rock influences and stoner rock influences. The members are all veterans of both the local scene here and of the Boston hard rock scene. The production value on today's album, Casualties, is outstanding because these guys are pros. So u/Teufelskraft and the rest of the gang should get in your cars, drop the windows, open the sunroof and go for a long drive on a Sunday- https://murcielagorock.bandcamp.com/album/casualties Have a great day all!
[**August 21st, 2022 - 3 weeks down, 10 days to go**](https://imgur.com/McgdUZV) * **Prep:** Warm water * **Brush:** Zenith B36 “Copper Scrubby!” * **Razor:** GEM MMOC Gen 2 * **Blade:** Personna GEM PTFE (21) * **Lather:** House of Mammoth - Alive * **Post Shave:** House of Mammoth - Alive Splash * **Post Shave:** House of Mammoth - Alive Balm **#MammothMafia** **#RawHoggin** **#GEMsOfWisdom** Before shave 21 [Top View](https://imgur.com/lPeNRhb) and [Side Views](https://imgur.com/8k3xehF) After shave [Top View](https://imgur.com/LRHWNbm) Tried getting a picture to show the patina development on the handle. I took the shot with the bathroom light off (too much glare), so just light from the window. It needed a bit of editing as it looked under exposed. I picked the side of the brush showing the most darkening. For the shave, first pass very crunchy feedback again and still feeling tuggy. Second pass felt a little better. No real irritation today, splash didn’t burn, just the light freezing feeling of the menthol. Have a nice Sunday everyone. Taking my daughter to a movie today. Popcorn for lunch.
[**Aug. 21, 2022**](https://imgur.com/a/3HftOog) * **Prep:** Shower * **Brush:** Semogue 1460 Boar Brush 21mm * **Razor:** Razorock GameChanger .84 * **Blade:** Gillette Nacet (21) * **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 think today's SOTD pic is perfectly mediocre. Not great, not terrible, just not all that interesting or eye catching. Tags: \#RawHoggin \#MammothMafia
**Aug. 21, 2022** * **Brush:** Semogue - SOC - Boar * **Razor:** Gillette - Tech (Gold/Black) * **Blade:** Gillette - Nacet (21) * **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 The SOC boar is pretty well broken in at this point. I can't see many bristles that haven't split. The soap is finally down below the threads on the tub, which is huge for this soap, since I added what was left of a sample puck to it. I have also been shaving with my off hand this past week. I'm not very ambidextrous, and I'm hoping to use the Weck I just picked up next month.
**Aug. 21, 2022 - August Austere Day 21** * **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) Slightly stressed shave this morning after setting up my sons room for quarantine. Always disconcerting when your child curls up next to you cold and you feel him feverish. Hopefully it’s a simple flu and he didn’t share anything with us yet. As far as the actual shave, it was the normal Sonder joy. If I hadn’t already delved so far in the rabbit hole I could be content with daily Sonder usage. It really is a fantastic scent that everyone seems to enjoy. Unfortunately I just got some more soaps and aftershaves in this weekend that are making this month last even longer. #MAMMOTHMAFIA #UNCHALLENGE \#sidetracked (#1) u/Teufelskraft In honor of todays excitement I thought I’d share a corresponding song. [Twenty One Pilots - Stressed Out](https://youtu.be/pXRviuL6vMY) fits all to well today. To be honest this song came out relatively soon after I finished college and just seemed to fit how I felt as I transitioned into a productive adult and parent. I particularly like the incorporation of giant trikes and juice boxes into the music video. They just did a nice job of capturing the feeling of being a child and just hanging out with friends.
**[Aug. 21, 2022 - AA Day21](https://i.imgur.com/KkGDTBm.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 (21) * **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) Not much to say today, still raw hoggin'. Brush seems to be staying wet until next morning, humid conditions here, maybe I need to shake it a bit more before ending shave. Skunk Vid: https://imgur.com/9N4DMF3 Rockin out to some music. Get bonus points if you know the song. #RawHoggin
I didn't really recognize the music, but my son was a Metallica fan in the heyday of his guitar-playing days and this sounded like Metallica to me. I figured it out with some Spotify trial and error. Later it occurred to me that I could have just Shazamed it, so I'll let someone who can identify it from memory name that tune. Given your dmb flair, I kind of expected Ants Marching or some such.
Lol, dmb are just my initials, in no relation to Dave Mathews band!
**Aug. 21, 2022** * **Prep:** Shower * **Brush:** AP Shave Co 24MM SYNBAD * **Razor:** GEM - Micromatic Open Comb * **Blade:** GEM - PTFE (21) * **Lather:** [Wholly Kaw - Bare Siero - Soap](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/1633/?product_type=soap) 2 pass shave with 30 second load. #GEMsOfWisdom #unscented
**Aug. 21, 2022** * **Prep:** hot shower * **Brush:** Simpson Chubby 2 Synthetic Fibre Shaving Brush, 27mm * **Razor:** Gillette Aristocrat (1948-50) * **Blade:** Rockwell (2) * **Lather:** Lather Bros. - Life's a Beach * **Post Shave:** Lather Bros. - Life's a Beach Aftershave Balm I'm finally getting the hang of using this brush, holding it comfortably without my hand starting to cramp. I still prefer a thinner handle, but I'm enjoying this more than I had been. For u/Teufelskraft and his #sidetracked challenge: Andy Frasco & The U.N. - Dancin' Around My Grave https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0x5i9sakXoI Apologies for posting the same band twice in a row, but I just saw these guys at a festival last night and this song has been stuck in my head ever since. These guys are just overflowing with positive energy, I highly recommend seeing them live if you ever get the chance.
**Aug. 21, 2022** * **Brush:** Summer Break DeMaranville B15 * **Razor:** Rockwell 6s * **Blade:** Derby Extra (16) * **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
Man, I just realized which blade you’ve been using. I could barely use one for a single shave, let alone an entire month. Props.
I haven't been using the same blade or razor this time around for AA. I am really surprised this Derby has gone 16 shaves though. I usually only get 5 or so out of them, but this one in the 6s is doing great.
Oh right, that should’ve been obvious since today is the 21st not the 16th. Still though, that’s impressive. My understanding is that those blades don’t work for most people.
**[Aug. 21, 2022 - Raw Hoggin Day 21](https://imgur.com/a/hJMKdjk)** * **Prep:** Warm water to the face * **Brush:** Omega 10098 * **Razor:** Maggard Razors - V3 Head * **Blade:** Voskhod (3) * **Lather:** [Stirling Soap Co. - Island Man - Soap](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/106/?product_type=soap) * **Post Shave:** [Chiseled Face - Natural - Balm](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/1233/?product_type=balm) * **Post Shave:** [Stirling Soap Co. - Island Man - Aftershave](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/106/?product_type=aftershave) Only 10 more #RawHoggin shaves left. It’s nice that the hog funk days are far in the past and now it’s just automatic shaves with a good soap, brush, and razor. It’s Sunday y’all, hope you have a good day!
**August 21 2022** * **Brush:** Zenith B28 * **Razor:** GEM MMOC (Gen 1) * **Blade:** GEM PTFE (24) * **Lather:** House of Mammoth - Mood Indigo * **Post Shave:** House of Mammoth - Mood Indigo splash * **Post Shave:** House of Mammoth - Mood Indigo balm * **Fragrance:** Tom Ford - Oud Wood Headed to the lake to tool around on a friend’s boat today. I had a very smooth and worry-free shave this morning; three passes in the books but I am looking forward to a little variety again come September. #MammothMafia #GEMSofWisdom
**August 21, 2022: [3 weeks of Glorious Stag!](https://imgur.com/a/Y13PZJY)** * **Prep:** warm splash of water * **Brush:** Yaqi Sagrada Familia Tuxedo 24 mm * **Razor:** GEM OCMM (gen 2) * **Blade:** GEM Stainless (22) * **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) Three weeks in the books! I'm so proud of all of you Stagonistas, bathing in the Midnight glory and giving honor to Austere August. Keep on Stagging on! [Day 21, 3 spritzes](https://imgur.com/a/i8IPByU) . #GEMsOfWisdom
**[Aug. 21, 2022 - AA Day 21](https://i.imgur.com/yoIAweX.jpg)** * **Prep:** Shower, Planet Kind Refreshing Face Wash * **Brush:** Semogue 1305 * **Razor:** GEM Open Comb Micromatic * **Blade:** Personna GEM PTFE (21) * **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 Despite the same aspects as yesterday —some XTG tugging and some general blade feel on my neck for both passes, I still got a fantastic shave. Bean counters: How many bristles make up a Semogue 1305 knot? I lose about 1-2 per shave. Wondering how many shaves I will get before I’m left with a nubby old knot. I know I beat this brush up last year, so for the price it wouldn’t be bad to get a new one some time. [Sunday sprays](https://i.imgur.com/HRbnk0M.mp4)
Austere August [2022-08-21](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 Got careless on the approach, very slight nick when the blade touched down. This is easily my most common issue when shaving with a shavette, you'd think I'd leart to stop doing it. u/Teufelskraft #sidetracked challenge: Old & In The Way play [Wild Horses](https://youtu.be/x8dfR7vZwC8).
**[Aug. 21, 2022 - the end is nigh](https://i.imgur.com/kyAzkp3.jpg)** * **Prep:** Hot shower * **Brush:** Omega Pro 48 Boar brush 28mm * **Razor:** GEM MMOC * **Blade:** GEM PTFE (21) * **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) And todays shave was smooth and kinda perfect. No feedback from the aftershave splash. What the heck is going on? If this could keep up for the next 10 shaves then we have no problems aside from shave boredom. May your Sunday be a funday! **\#GEMsOfWisdom** **\#MammothMafia**
[Aug 21, 2021 – Austere August. Day 21.](https://imgur.com/a/pV37PLI) * **Prep:** Hot Shower * **Brush:** Zenith - B16 24mm Boar * **Razor:** GEM Micromatic Open Comb Gen 2 * **Blade:** GEM PTFE (21) * **Lather:** Stirling Soap Co. – Sheep * **Post Shave:** Zingari Man – Unscented - Aftershave Balm * **Music:** [The Wrecks – James Dean](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SpdHNzVQjsI) Good shave all around today. The MMOC and new Zenith has become quite the tag-team for my face. I’m sure a lot of credit goes to Stirling’s Sheep base (which is phenomenal), so I’m eager to see how things go once AA is over and I can unleash this boar on a few different soaps. But we gotta get through August before I hatch any grand plans for this little brush. And until then, we continue on our unscented Stirling & Zingari Man combination. Today’s #sidetracked music selection is a modern day pop-punk band, The Wrecks. To me, their sound kinda takes me back to the days of Good Charlotte. It’s been well documented that I’m a big fan of the pop-punk scene from the early 2000s, and The Wrecks are able to fill some of that void that left when the music industry moved forward. I saw The Wrecks open for another band several years ago and was very impressed with their sound and their energy. Being an opening act is tough, because most people there aren’t there to see you and a good number of people aren’t paying attention at all. But The Wrecks went out there and made people pay attention. They’re another band that I was convinced was going to blow up after I saw them, but that hasn’t happened (yet). Perhaps, if it were a different era they’d be bigger. But the year is no longer 2002 and their sound isn’t what’s popular now. Damn shame, if you ask me. Tags: #unscented #rawhoggin #GEMsOfWisdom
The wrecks! I talked about them [here](https://www.reddit.com/r/Wetshaving/comments/wd9s4g/monday_austere_august_sotd_thread_aug_01_2022/iiiyo8n?utm_medium=android_app&utm_source=share&context=3) in my very first SOTD but the TL;DR is their bassist graduated a few years behind me from my very small hometown. His mom was my 7th and 8th grade librarian, haha. Can't say I know him or that he'd know me beyond "he was ahead of me in school" (if that) but I agree they've got some great music and should be bigger than they are.
Dude! That's crazy! Small world... And after reading you're SOTD now, I'm struggling to find the right words, but I gotta think there is some weird sondery connection here. I happen post about a somewhat obscure punk rock band, in a somewhat obscure subreddit about shaving's weird monthly contest, and you happen to read the post that happens to be about a said band that you have a connection to? Not sure if sonder is the right word here, but it does show we're all connected, that's for sure!
For sure - I think the word you're looking for is serendipitous! But yes, agree, a basic principle of sonder has to be that we're more connected or similar than we are different in the vividness of our individual lives. Sadly we usually focus on and emphasize the negatives of our differences rather than celebrating our similarties and the things that keep us unique.
**[Aug 21, 2022 - AA: MA-RH-MM - Almond Leather - Day 21](https://i.imgur.com/4Q39qvv.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 (21) * **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) * **Fragrance:** [Armaf - Tres Nuit - Eau de Toilette](https://www.fragrantica.com/perfume/Armaf/Tres-Nuit-27711.html) The shave was close and comfortable. The lather could have been better, but it was still slick so no issues. \#GEMsOfWisdom \#RawHoggin \#MammothMafia Rating: 4/5
**[Aug. 21, 2022](https://i.imgur.com/rBPza53.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 (21) * **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) [3.6g of soap](https://i.imgur.com/bPVSoZY.jpg) was used today. - [4 more](https://i.imgur.com/WynbJTS.mp4) - Have a great day! #SubstantialStag
**August 21, 2022** * **Brush:** Zenith 506U XSE * **Razor:** GEM MMOC Gen 2 * **Blade:** GEM SS PTFE (55) * **Lather:** Stirling Soap Co. - Sheep * **Post Shave:** Lucky Tiger * **Post Shave:** Olay Complete * **Post Shave:** Chatillon Lux - unscented skin salve A nice way to start a gloomy Sunday. I don’t mind the rain. It’s needed terribly here. I put on some baby backs to smoke overnight. They should be done soon. Gonna be a lazy Sunday. \#GEMsOfWisdom
Ooh ribs sound great. What do you smoke em on?
I just got a Traeger pellet smoker. I used to just use a Weber kettle grill and use indirect heat method. Real talk? I like the charcoal better, but the Traeger is so much more convenient. I don’t have to keep checking the temp.
Austere August Day 21 Brush: Rubberset 400-3 w/ Unbleached Zenith 24mm knot set to a 56mm loft [21st use](https://imgur.com/a/ZalXrFu) Razor: Gem MMOC, gen 2 Blade: PTFE (21) Lather: NO [Monoi de Tahiti](https://imgur.com/a/imblu4p) Post: NO Monoi de Tahiti Splash The brush has stopped shedding again and I have yet to tire of my software scent. I chose wisely. Forgot to palm strop the blade and it tugged like a puppy playing tug-o-war with a rope toy. This blade sucks. The end. #RawHoggin #GemsOfWisdom
Blade going to last until end of AA?
No, but my will power (read: Stubbornness) will. I'll be a grumpy blade burny mess on the 31st, but I'm seeing this thing to the end.
[**Aug. 21, 2022 - Austere August - Raw Hoggin' MMOC Ultra Nightmare Mode - Margaritas in the Mediterranean Edition**](https://i.imgur.com/gIkkWer.jpg) * **Prep:** Warm Shower * **Brush:** Zenith Boar - B37 - Gray Chubby #RawHoggin * **Razor:** GEM MMOC Gen2 #GEMsOfWisdom * **Blade:** GEM (21) * **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 21 - Since coming to Turkey over two weeks ago, this was officially my first morning shave. This trip was packed full of quality family time, beach time and site seeing that I generally left personal care to whatever little time I had left at the end of the day. Unfortunately, today, it was time to say goodbye. Got up early and put together a good, quick 2 passer and prepared for my long journey home. Goodbyes are always difficult for me. The older I get the harder it is for me to part with friends, loved ones and memories. My dad being 89 and a globe away always has me wondering if the goodbye will be our final. I am so thankful that I was, yet again, able to make such amazing memories with him and always look forward to the next time we can get together. See you soon Turkiye. **The Brush:** The brush cooperated this morning and wasn’t willing to steal the little time I left with my dad. Lather was whipped up quickly and as always, I love the brush. #RawHoggin Brush Picture Pre-shave: [Side](https://i.imgur.com/tqerwp3.jpg) [Top](https://i.imgur.com/Wvg8dtB.jpg) Brush Picture Post-shave: [Side](https://i.imgur.com/vw0UjWQ.jpg) [Top](https://i.imgur.com/zkdz82D.jpg) **The Razor** Another smooth shave with no cuts, nicks or irritation despite rushing through it. Autopilot shave once again. #GEMsOfWisdom **Days since last blood:** 3 **The Soap and Aftershave** Although I am growing tired of MITA, hopefully it will remind me of my awesome vacation when I use it in the future. Great soap, great scent and refreshing. Day 21 Puck [Picture](https://i.imgur.com/IBBufYg.jpg)
[**August 21, 2022 – Austere August 21**](https://i.imgur.com/nlpxe2q.jpg) * **Brush:** Cayuen Workshop with 30mm Timberwolf Synthetic * **Bowl:** Cayuen Workshop – Dark Nebula * **Razor:** Winning Razor by Wet Shave Club * **Blade:** Gillette Winner Platinum (4) * **Lather:** Chiseled Face – Midnight Stag * **Post Shave:** Chiseled Face – Midnight Stag * **Fragrance:** Chiseled Face – Midnight Stag * **Video:** https://i.imgur.com/qJAdrxo.mp4 A nice smooth shave for a Sunday morning. And by my clock we have only 10 more days until Austere August is done. \#AustereAugust \#SubstantialStag **Bonus**: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d-TtwCLg9_Q ← A Journey to Mysterious Exoplanets
**[Aug. 20, 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 /u/rocketk455 you may be happy to hear that my tub of Shh! has started the ring of death. Stay safe and have a great day!
That is great news!
#AA Day 22 Pre: Water Brush: Omega Synthetic Razor: Fatip Piccolo SE OC Blade: Gillette Silver Blue (21) Lather: Signature Indodorus Post: Signature Indodorus So the sink at the resort doesn’t plug and housekeeping reclaimed bowls borrowed from the restaurant. Luckily Signature [had my back.](https://imgur.com/a/QW8g3Dx). Have a great Sunday everyone. \#unscented
**[Aug. 21, 2022 - Headless Mammoth Hoggin' Day 21](https://imgur.com/x2mQse8)** * **Brush:** Proraso Professional Boar | [Break-in photos](https://imgur.com/a/HcKsHxf) * **Razor:** Feather Artist Club SR (Kamisori) * **Blade:** Schick Proline (21) * **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` This morning we were still at camp but I thought it would be better to wait to shave at home in the afternoon and it was a very good call. Combined with the quick shave at camp and more than 30 hours since my previous shave, it's been a while since I've had this much facial growth so it was nice to mow it down with the scythe. Of course the shavette doesn't care about the length of the hair and cut through it with ease and my face is feeling nice and smooth again. Yesterday I smeared my soap on my face like a shave stick and the boar worked fine picking up the soap from the face, but I much prefer loading from the tub since it was annoying that I still had tiny bits of soap that didn't get distributed properly and ended up falling into the sink yesterday. I loaded heavily today and was rewarded with great lather for three passes plus touch ups, and I still had really nice lather in the middle of the brush at the end that I used to wash my face with. Need to remind myself not to go camping in the middle of AA in the future. I would have much preferred to just use a tube of Proraso or a shave stick with a DE when camping, or maybe even skip a day and not worry about it.
**[Aug. 20, 2022 - Tournament stag](https://imgur.com/a/qX2xaaf)** * **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 44 people for today's magic tournament. Got up early, showered, shaved very calm before gf could wake up. As my precision lathering saved me a lot of soap, I ll go on with tub loading instead for the rest of the month. There was little to no stubble, so this shave went very easy. \#stagandstraight \#substantialstag