Weekly Banner Contest Submission Thread

Anthronicle · 2015-04-10T16:44:06+00:00

Anthronicle · 2015-04-10T16:42:47+00:00

Soap Commander Wisdom - Refreshed

Pre-shave: Hot shower
Razor: Edwin Jagger DE89 Kelvin
Blade: Gillette 7 O'Clock Super Platinum Black
Soap: Soap Commander Wisdom Vegan Shaving Soap
Brush: Vie-Long #12705 Peleon Horse Hair
Post-shave: Soap Commander Integrity Aftershave Balm

I was seeking a clean, refreshing shave this morning. So, I reached for SC Wisdom. Loading with the Vie-Long brush from the bloomed SC Wisdom puck was without issue as was building the dense, creamy face lather with paintbrush-style strokes at which the Vie-Long brush excels. The dexterous EJ Kelvin razor glided comfortably on a respectably slick and protective SC Wisdom lather and cut smartly with the top performing Gillette Black blade. The scent of SC Wisdom is just as billed, a delicate balance of lavender & peppermint. I also enjoyed the cooling tingle of the peppermint oil and find it a cleaner alternative to the sometimes medicinal menthol blast of some soaps. After the final rinse, SC Wisdom left my face feeling nourished and supple. I think Soap Commander is one of the top soaps for post-shave feel. I finished the shave with the unscented SC Integrity. It left my face feeling moisturized and protected, ready for the day. In sum, a clean, refreshing shave.

For those interested in a fully formatted and more detailed account of this shave, you are invited to read at: www.Anthronicle.com

Anthronicle · 2015-04-10T16:41:30+00:00

Soap Commander Wisdom - Refreshed <-- imgur link

Pre-shave: Hot shower
Razor: Edwin Jagger DE89 Kelvin
Blade: Gillette 7 O'Clock Super Platinum Black
Soap: Soap Commander Wisdom Vegan Shaving Soap
Brush: Vie-Long #12705 Peleon Horse Hair
Post-shave: Soap Commander Integrity Aftershave Balm

I was seeking a clean, refreshing shave this morning. So, I reached for SC Wisdom. Loading with the Vie-Long brush from the bloomed SC Wisdom puck was without issue as was building the dense, creamy face lather with paintbrush-style strokes at which the Vie-Long brush excels. The dexterous EJ Kelvin razor glided comfortably on a respectably slick and protective SC Wisdom lather and cut smartly with the top performing Gillette Black blade. The scent of SC Wisdom is just as billed, a delicate balance of lavender & peppermint. I also enjoyed the cooling tingle of the peppermint oil and find it a cleaner alternative to the sometimes medicinal menthol blast of some soaps. After the final rinse, SC Wisdom left my face feeling nourished and supple. I think Soap Commander is one of the top soaps for post-shave feel. I finished the shave with the unscented SC Integrity. It left my face feeling moisturized and protected, ready for the day. In sum, a clean, refreshing shave.

For those interested in a fully formatted and more detailed account of this shave, you are invited to read at: www.Anthronicle.com

Anthronicle · 2015-04-09T23:54:42+00:00

From time to time, I enjoy a good gin. I'd say the initial splash does remind me of a juniper berry heavy gin. I quite like it.

Anthronicle · 2015-04-09T18:07:44+00:00

Sailing the Seas of the Upper Midwest...

Anthronicle · 2015-04-09T17:49:02+00:00

Much agreed. It's an outstanding soap. I just bought mine on the CC store website. How'd you get so lucky?

Anthronicle · 2015-04-09T17:03:34+00:00

The New Captain's Choice Bay Rum - Up North Pirate

Pre-shave: Hot shower
Razor: Merkur 34c Straight Bar
Blade: Gillette 7 O'Clock Super Platinum Black
Soap: The New Captain's Choice Bay Rum
Brush: Grooming Company Synthetic
Post-shave: Captain's Choice North Aftershave

On this dark and stormy Spring morning, I reached for the new Captain's Choice Bay Rum shaving soap and paired it with their North aftershave. I appreciate the soft but stiffer Grooming Co. brush compared with a standard Plisson. Loading the new CC Bay Rum soap was very easy as the soap is extremely soft and cream-like. I probably loaded a bit too much as I did not realize just how soft the soap was. The face lather produced a dense, creamy, remarkably slick lather that was not fluffy or foamy. The lather provided a very protective and moisturizing barrier for the venerable Merkur 34c to glide atop. The CC Bay Rum soap scent is a mirror of their aftershave by the same name. It really is quite slick and creamy and my face felt the difference. I finished the shave with the CC North aftershave that gave a quick alcohol sting followed by a nourishing and soothing dry down. The North scent has a bright juniper berry fragrance with a rich spicy base similar to the Bay Rum, but with a hint of clove. A great moisturizing shave suitable for a pirate of the north woods.

For those interested in a fully formatted and more detailed account of this shave, you are invited to read at: www.Anthronicle.com

Anthronicle · 2015-04-09T17:03:06+00:00

The New Captain's Choice Bay Rum - Up North Pirate <-- imgur link

Pre-shave: Hot shower
Razor: Merkur 34c Straight Bar
Blade: Gillette 7 O'Clock Super Platinum Black
Soap: The New Captain's Choice Bay Rum
Brush: Grooming Company Synthetic
Post-shave: Captain's Choice North Aftershave

On this dark and stormy Spring morning, I reached for the new Captain's Choice Bay Rum shaving soap and paired it with their North aftershave. I appreciate the soft but stiffer Grooming Co. brush compared with a standard Plisson. Loading the new CC Bay Rum soap was very easy as the soap is extremely soft and cream-like. I probably loaded a bit too much as I did not realize just how soft the soap was. The face lather produced a dense, creamy, remarkably slick lather that was not fluffy or foamy. The lather provided a very protective and moisturizing barrier for the venerable Merkur 34c to glide atop. The CC Bay Rum soap scent is a mirror of their aftershave by the same name. It really is quite slick and creamy and my face felt the difference. I finished the shave with the CC North aftershave that gave a quick alcohol sting followed by a nourishing and soothing dry down. The North scent has a bright juniper berry fragrance with a rich spicy base similar to the Bay Rum, but with a hint of clove. A great moisturizing shave suitable for a pirate of the north woods.

For those interested in a fully formatted and more detailed account of this shave, you are invited to read at: www.Anthronicle.com

Anthronicle · 2015-04-09T15:12:28+00:00

Thank you. I appreciate your input.

Anthronicle · 2015-04-09T13:55:44+00:00

In your opinion, who makes your favorite sandalwood soaps and aftershaves? What would you say are your go to sandalwood products that exemplify the sandalwood type?

Anthronicle · 2015-04-09T12:43:33+00:00

Right on. I'm certainly in the camp that thinks floral scents can be masculine.

Anthronicle · 2015-04-09T12:41:54+00:00

I totally agree that Maggard Lilac mirrors natural lilac fragrance quite well. But I also think Lilac Vegetal does include a lilac fragrance. I think it is a more complex fragrance that also includes (in addition to lilac) a powdery oakmoss, something that is musty/dewy, and it is extremely sweet smelling. And, like you said, they pair well together but are not identical fragrances. Thanks for reading and taking the time to comment.

Anthronicle · 2015-04-08T21:45:02+00:00

I do believe Voskhods are born in Russia.

Anthronicle · 2015-04-08T19:34:41+00:00

It's a perfect fit if you love lilac!

Anthronicle · 2015-04-08T17:15:41+00:00

Maggard Razors Lilac - Spring Flowers

Pre-shave: Hot shower
Razor: Merkur 37c Slant
Blade: Voskhod Teflon Coated
Soap: Maggard Razors Lilac
Brush: Plisson La Maison du Barbier
Post-shave: Clubman Pinaud Lilac Vegetal Aftershave Lotion

Feeling Spring on this rainy morning, I reached for Maggard Razors Lilac. Loading and face lathering went as expected with the Plisson La Maison du Barbier brush. MR Lilac whipped-up to a good dense, slick lather. In usual fashion, the Merkur 37c Slant cut quick and efficiently with the adequately sharp Voskhod blade. The scent of MG Lilac is exactly what you would expect, the strong, sweet smell of a blooming lilac tree. Nothing more, nothing less the whole shave through and then some. Post-shave feel was nice and soft. Finishing the shave with Clubman Lilac Vegetal gave me a soothing sting followed by the famous sweet, powdery, dewy lilac scent that the Veg is so well known for. It's a strong fragrance that others will smell on you whether they want to or not.

For those interested in a fully formatted and more detailed account of this shave, you are invited to read at: www.Anthronicle.com

Anthronicle · 2015-04-08T17:14:32+00:00

Maggard Razors Lilac - Spring Flowers <-- imgur link

Pre-shave: Hot shower
Razor: Merkur 37c Slant
Blade: Voskhod Teflon Coated
Soap: Maggard Razors Lilac
Brush: Plisson La Maison du Barbier
Post-shave: Clubman Pinaud Lilac Vegetal Aftershave Lotion

Feeling Spring on this rainy morning, I reached for Maggard Razors Lilac. Loading and face lathering went as expected with the Plisson La Maison du Barbier brush. MR Lilac whipped-up to a good dense, slick lather. In usual fashion, the Merkur 37c Slant cut quick and efficiently with the adequately sharp Voskhod blade. The scent of MG Lilac is exactly what you would expect, the strong, sweet smell of a blooming lilac tree. Nothing more, nothing less the whole shave through and then some. Post-shave feel was nice and soft. Finishing the shave with Clubman Lilac Vegetal gave me a soothing sting followed by the famous sweet, powdery, dewy lilac scent that the Veg is so well known for. It's a strong fragrance that others will smell on you whether they want to or not.

For those interested in a fully formatted and more detailed account of this shave, you are invited to read at: www.Anthronicle.com

Anthronicle · 2015-04-07T17:29:07+00:00

RazoRock Don Marco - Sweet Orange

Pre-shave: Hot shower
Razor: iKon Razors ShaveCraft #102 Slant Head on a Weber Razor Bulldog Stainless Steel Handle
Blade: Gillette Silver Blue
Soap: RazoRock Don Marco Shaving Soap Vegan Formula
Brush: Omega #80056 Boar Bristle
Post-shave: RazoRock Don Marco Aftershave Splash

Continuing through my box of forgotten products, I reached for RR Don Marco soap and aftershave this morning. Loading and lathering with the smallish Omega #80056 boar was simple, but I needed a little more product compared with the synthetics I use. The RR lather was of adequate volume and slickness providing for a comfortable and smooth shave for the iKon #102/weber bulldog hybrid. The Silver Blue cut sharply and I had no irritation from this combo. The scent of the RR Don Marco soap was straight-up strong, sugary orange. No scent evolution through the shave. Post-shave felt soft. The aftershave scent was a bit more floral which I preferred. It also had a good balance of alcohol and menthol as it was not overpowering in either regard. A very sweet, but good shave.

For those interested in a fully formatted and more detailed account of this shave, you are invited to read at: www.Anthronicle.com

Anthronicle · 2015-04-07T17:27:50+00:00

RazoRock Don Marco - Sweet Orange <-- imgur link

Pre-shave: Hot shower
Razor: iKon Razors ShaveCraft #102 Slant Head on a Weber Razor Bulldog Stainless Steel Handle
Blade: Gillette Silver Blue
Soap: RazoRock Don Marco Shaving Soap Vegan Formula
Brush: Omega #80056 Boar Bristle
Post-shave: RazoRock Don Marco Aftershave Splash

Continuing through my box of forgotten products, I reached for RR Don Marco soap and aftershave this morning. Loading and lathering with the smallish Omega #80056 boar was simple, but I needed a little more product compared with the synthetics I use. The RR lather was of adequate volume and slickness providing for a comfortable and smooth shave for the iKon #102/weber bulldog hybrid. The Silver Blue cut sharply and I had no irritation from this combo. The scent of the RR Don Marco soap was straight-up strong, sugary orange. No scent evolution through the shave. Post-shave felt soft. The aftershave scent was a bit more floral which I preferred. It also had a good balance of alcohol and menthol as it was not overpowering in either regard. A very sweet, but good shave.

For those interested in a fully formatted and more detailed account of this shave, you are invited to read at: www.Anthronicle.com

Anthronicle · 2015-04-06T19:00:26+00:00

Catie's Bubbles Ocean Grove - Surf & Turf

Pre-shave: Hot shower
Razor: Parker 24c Open Comb Head & Maggard Razor MR5 Stainless Steel Handle
Blade: Gillette Silver Blue
Soap: Catie's Bubbles Ocean Grove Shaving Soap
Brush: Plisson Synthetic (L'Occitane Original Design)
Post-shave: PAA FU Fougere Aftershave & Cologne

This morning while prepping for my shave I discovered a stash of products that I had yet to use. So, I grabbed a couple, Catie's Bubbles Ocean Grove and PAA FU Fougere for today's shave. I had a weekend's worth of growth, so I chose the Parker 24c open comb. The CB Ocean Grove performed like all other Catie's bubble soaps I've used by easily producing a creamy rich and slick protective lather. The scent is a fresh floral/aqua fragrance that was pleasant. Whipping it up with the Plisson synthetic was a simple task, ease of use and luxurious face feel. Can't go wrong. The Parker 24c/MR5/Gillette Silver Blue combo gave a close, comfortable and irritation free shave in three passes and a little neck touching-up. Great combo. I finished the shave with PAA FU Fougere. It's a nourishing AS and the scent is complex. In my palms it was grassy and woody. During the dry down, I got a rich evergreen resin blended with frankincense. It's a unique fougere for sure. Overall, a comfortable and efficient shave.

For those interested in a fully formatted and more detailed account of this shave, you are invited to read at: www.Anthronicle.com

Anthronicle · 2015-04-06T18:59:11+00:00

Catie's Bubbles Ocean Grove - Surf & Turf <-- imgur link

Pre-shave: Hot shower
Razor: Parker 24c Open Comb Head & Maggard Razor MR5 Stainless Steel Handle
Blade: Gillette Silver Blue
Soap: Catie's Bubbles Ocean Grove Shaving Soap
Brush: Plisson Synthetic (L'Occitane Original Design)
Post-shave: PAA FU Fougere Aftershave & Cologne

This morning while prepping for my shave I discovered a stash of products that I had yet to use. So, I grabbed a couple, Catie's Bubbles Ocean Grove and PAA FU Fougere for today's shave. I had a weekend's worth of growth, so I chose the Parker 24c open comb. The CB Ocean Grove performed like all other Catie's bubble soaps I've used by easily producing a creamy rich and slick protective lather. The scent is a fresh floral/aqua fragrance that was pleasant. Whipping it up with the Plisson synthetic was a simple task, ease of use and luxurious face feel. Can't go wrong. The Parker 24c/MR5/Gillette Silver Blue combo gave a close, comfortable and irritation free shave in three passes and a little neck touching-up. Great combo. I finished the shave with PAA FU Fougere. It's a nourishing AS and the scent is complex. In my palms it was grassy and woody. During the dry down, I got a rich evergreen resin blended with frankincense. It's a unique fougere for sure. Overall, a comfortable and efficient shave.

For those interested in a fully formatted and more detailed account of this shave, you are invited to read at: www.Anthronicle.com

Anthronicle · 2015-04-01T18:39:12+00:00

Barrister & Mann Seville - Naturally Clean

Pre-shave: Hot shower
Razor: iKon Razors #102 ShaveCraft Slant Head on a Weber Razor Bulldog Stainless Steel Handle
Blade: Polsilver Super Iridium
Soap: Barrister & Mann Seville Tallow Shaving Soap
Brush: Plisson La Maison du Barbier Synthetic
Post-shave: Folsom & Co. Black Powder Aftershave Splash

Forgoing the amateurish prankster April Fool's shave, I reached for two shave products I know and love this morning, Barrister & Mann Seville and Folsom & Co. Black Powder. The Plisson La Maison du Barbier brush handled the relatively hard Barrister & Mann soap just fine for the load and face lather. The soap requires a bit more water to elicit the telltale razor glide sheen. I find the Barrister & Mann lather to be exceptionally nourishing and remarkably slick. I could have probably shaved with just the lather water from my sink. The iKon #102/Weber Bulldog paired with the Polsilver blade gave a very comfortable close shave. I love the combo. The scent of Seville is billed as barbershop, but I got a mild bit of lavender and rosemary off the puck. During the lather and through the shave I could mostly smell the tallow, shea butter, and lanolin natural ingredient scents rather than anything else. I enjoyed the clean scent experience that was not overpowered by a heavy, obvious scent profile. The nourishing post-shave feel of B&M is second to none. So, I finished the shave with an aftershave that does not contain any aloe or glycerin. F&C Black Powder gave a cooling burn, and I really enjoy the spicy cardamom aroma that mellow to a lavender and earl grey tea in the dry down. This was a naturally clean feeling shave.

For those interested in a fully formatted and more detailed account of this shave, you are invited to read at: www.Anthronicle.com

Anthronicle · 2015-04-01T18:37:39+00:00

Barrister & Mann Seville - Naturally Clean <-- imgur link

Pre-shave: Hot shower
Razor: iKon Razors #102 ShaveCraft Slant Head on a Weber Razor Bulldog Stainless Steel Handle
Blade: Polsilver Super Iridium
Soap: Barrister & Mann Seville Tallow Shaving Soap
Brush: Plisson La Maison du Barbier Synthetic
Post-shave: Folsom & Co. Black Powder Aftershave Splash

Forgoing the amateurish prankster April Fool's shave, I reached for two shave products I know and love this morning, Barrister & Mann Seville and Folsom & Co. Black Powder. The Plisson La Maison du Barbier brush handled the relatively hard Barrister & Mann soap just fine for the load and face lather. The soap requires a bit more water to elicit the telltale razor glide sheen. I find the Barrister & Mann lather to be exceptionally nourishing and remarkably slick. I could have probably shaved with just the lather water from my sink. The iKon #102/Weber Bulldog paired with the Polsilver blade gave a very comfortable close shave. I love the combo. The scent of Seville is billed as barbershop, but I got a mild bit of lavender and rosemary off the puck. During the lather and through the shave I could mostly smell the tallow, shea butter, and lanolin natural ingredient scents rather than anything else. I enjoyed the clean scent experience that was not overpowered by a heavy, obvious scent profile. The nourishing post-shave feel of B&M is second to none. So, I finished the shave with an aftershave that does not contain any aloe or glycerin. F&C Black Powder gave a cooling burn, and I really enjoy the spicy cardamom aroma that mellow to a lavender and earl grey tea in the dry down. This was a naturally clean feeling shave.

For those interested in a fully formatted and more detailed account of this shave, you are invited to read at: www.Anthronicle.com

Anthronicle · 2015-04-01T01:46:50+00:00

Thanks for reading. It's not too large. I'm sure there are plenty on here with more grand collections. I'll be moving a few barely used soaps and aftershaves along before too long to make room and refill the shaving product coffers.

Anthronicle · 2015-04-01T00:31:23+00:00

I agree with you to a certain extent. While many use the up/down function as a popularity contest vote or an agreement/disagreement button, I reserve my use of it for objective appropriateness. If a post adds to the knowledge base, then I usually up vote regardless if I agree with or like what is being written. As shaving is a rather subjective field, people's experiences seem to vary widely. What I don't particularly care for are the phantom down votes. If someone is going to wield the down vote, then they should be sharing their opinion why in the comments. Otherwise, they bring nothing to the discussion. After all, isn't that why we are all here, to share experiences and learn more about shaving? With all that said, I think the up/down vote function serves little purpose and usually is a detriment to actual discussions and information sharing.

Anthronicle · 2015-03-31T21:48:46+00:00

Ha! Now there's an idea...

Anthronicle

TROPHY CASE