This is a small brush and can easily be used as a travel companion. Before using the brush, I soaked it overnight in soapy water, then rinsed it out completely and let it air dry before using it for the first time. It lathers quite well with a hard soap, but is not as dense as a Chubby 2. I was expecting it to have more of a backbone when compared to the Chubby 2 Silvertip, but in fact it was as soft or softer than the Silvertip. The Simpson Manchurian badger or the Zenith Manchurian badger both have more of a backbone than the Shavemac. Because of it's size, it is very easy to control and one is able to lather one's face without getting it all over the place. I would recommend buying this brush because of it's price point and quality especially when compared to the Simpsons. All in all, it is very good and I have put it into my rotation of brushes that I use on a regular basis.