I've had one of these Simpson Polos for well over two decades and couldn't imagine not having it to hand (regardless of whether I'm using it or another brush). I've tried all three grades of badger and find I prefer the mid-level "Best Badger" as a nice compromise between spring in the hair and softness against my face. Not to mention the ridiculous amount of water it carries to the lather bowl. On the topic of how much water the brush holds, I have to shake or otherwise wring out about half the water the brush holds prior to shaking a fair amount into my lather bowl prior to loading with soap or cream. If I neglect to do that, I end up with a thin, runny soup instead of anything resembling lather. But one load of lather will cover my face and neck without any difficulty whatsoever. The long handle makes whipping up a lather and brushing the tips of the hair bristles against my face almost effortless in execution. And if I can't crank out as much speed as I can with my shorter brushes, it's less strain and effort. I'm still experimenting with different brushes (I'm thinking a synthetic next), but this one's been my go-to brush for well over twenty years and isn't likely to be retired any time soon.