Colonel vs Commodore

John Parker · Joined: 19 Jul 2009 Posts: 80 Location: Nebraska

Want to re-ask my question on the ergonomics of the Simson Colonel vs the Commodore X2. I know the sizes and have reviewed the photos. I like the appearance of the Commodore best, but believe that the Colonel's feel would be closest to my favorite C&E BBB. Afraid the larger identation in the Commodore might confine my fingers toward the base.

Would also like to know the differences in the two knots. Again, I know the dimensions, but can't find anything about the density of these two best knots. Plan to face lather, and am concerned with density.

Appreciate hearing from anyone who has used both. Thanks, John

SiR-ed8 · Guest

Like John I am curious as well. Having reviewed the stock photos again-for me however aestheticwise I like Colonel. It's sleek and very nice waistline and voluptuous.

A birdeye view is appreciated thank you.

notthesharpest · Posted: Sat Jul 17, 2010 3:50 pm Post subject:

Ivan, John:

I think there is always going to be variability, sometimes a lot of variability, between two of "the same" brush. Keep that in mind as you take in the useful comments - of which I have none.

bernards66 · Duke of Silvertip! Joined: 27 Feb 2005 Posts: 22731

These days I think that the type of bristle and the degree of density are pretty similiar with these two models. So, I suppose that it would mainly come down to the handle design. Personally I like them both but somewhat prefer the Colonel.
Regards,
Gordon

notthesharpest · Posted: Sat Jul 17, 2010 9:11 pm Post subject:

vtmax · Joined: 08 Apr 2009 Posts: 138 Location: Vermont

I agree the CH1 is just too small to grip whereas the CH3 is a bit large. The Polo8 & CH2 are more manageable. I do love the feel of the Colonel handle. Feels just right imo.

Max

drumana · Joined: 05 Apr 2007 Posts: 4175

I've been contemplating the same thing. The Commodore seems like it lends to holding it only one way - down at the bottom in the 'waist' of the handle. Even though it's restricting in that regard, it seems very ergonomic to the point where you wouldn't want to hold it another way. I like the unique aesthetic properties of this handle, not having the usual ring around it that the Simpson handles usually have.

_________________
-Andrew-

notthesharpest · Posted: Sun Jul 18, 2010 10:19 am Post subject:

A brush that compels you to hold it in a certain way is fine, as long as that way actually works.

drumana · Joined: 05 Apr 2007 Posts: 4175

Can anyone comment if the Commodore works well in this way? I know it will depend on the size of your hands, but in general...

_________________
-Andrew-

notthesharpest · Posted: Sun Jul 18, 2010 12:44 pm Post subject:

I don't have one so can't answer directly, but haven't seen even one complaint about the handle on either of these brushes.

rsp1202 · Joined: 01 Sep 2008 Posts: 1117

The Colonel handle was smaller than expected, but my hand and fingers found purchase without a problem, though I wouldn't characterize it as a natural grip. Works nonetheless. Aesthetically, the Colonel over the Commodore, for me.

_________________
Ron

John Parker · Joined: 19 Jul 2009 Posts: 80 Location: Nebraska

I waited a couple weeks after initially asking the question, then bought the Colonel. Very satisfied. Knot is wonderful, and handle very well crafted and comfortable.

SiR-ed8 · Guest

John Parker · Joined: 19 Jul 2009 Posts: 80 Location: Nebraska

Don't be sorry, Ivan! Still thinking about another Simpson brush - perhaps the Commodore or perhaps the Grosvenor LE. Another quandry!

SiR-ed8 · Guest

Tell me bout it my friend if only Beaufort or Eagle series came in Best grade...

One of my favourites actually my first Simpsons to boot John.

Thus far these are my fave handles from Simpsons:

Beaufort
Wee Scot
Case

Colonel
Duke
Eagle

Gareth · Taylorman Joined: 13 Jul 2007 Posts: 2506

I have never owned or even held in my hand a Commodore, however FWIW, I have been very impressed with my Colonel. Of all the brushes I have owned, this is one of the cheapest, but certainly one of my favourites nonetheless. I would highly recommend it.

Gareth

drumana · Joined: 05 Apr 2007 Posts: 4175

This thread has gotten me dangerously interested in a Commodore. Cool

I'm intrigued by that handle design...

_________________
-Andrew-

rsp1202 · Joined: 01 Sep 2008 Posts: 1117

Andrew, the -2 or -3?

(I was at one time trying to decide between the two, and the -3 looked quite large, compared to what I'd been using. Since I was going by photos and driving myself nuts, I finally opted out.)

_________________
Ron

notthesharpest · Posted: Fri Jul 23, 2010 10:13 am Post subject:

The Commodore 2 and the Commodore 3 are both very close to what I would consider the "sweet spot" for a good all-round brush. The 2 is not too small and the 3 is not too big, in my opinion. Just to say while it may be hard to make the perfect choice without holding them in your hand, you are highly unlikely to be badly disappointed with either one.

The Duke 3 and the Ehsan and the Grosvenor and the Colonel are all clustered around this general size too. All are extremely popular because all are sized just about right for most people.

drumana · Joined: 05 Apr 2007 Posts: 4175

Ron -

Actually, I was leaning towards the Commodore X1. WestCoastShaving.com lists it as having a 20mm knot with a 44mm loft, which are real good specs for what I like. The Commodore X2 is listed as having a 22mm knot with a 47mm loft - the loft on this might be a little long.

Probably the perfect specs for me would be the handle of the X2 with the knot of the X1, but...

_________________
-Andrew-

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