ive had this brush for 7-8 months now, this is a great brush. the handle is very nicely made, and a bit lighter in person. the boar is stiff but not too much and the tips split nicely and create a soft yet firm surface. the brush comes in a simple plastic box, little to no smell while dry, the first week it smelled a bit, but its a natural brush. to get rid of the small faster use a little bit of dish soap and soak well. i soak my brush is hot water while i shower. the brush didnt shed very much and hasnt lost a bristle in a long time. over all its a great first time brush or a simple addition to a collection.