As a point of reference, I have the 56, 57, and the Duke 2, all in Best Grade, providing a consistent basis for comparison. I have severed my long-term bond with the Duke 2 in favour of the the 50 series. The 56, especially, is less dense than the Duke 2, provides a smaller splay on the face, and a much softer feel. Whereas the Duke lineup excels in density and a bit of scrub, the 56 and 57 excel in a more luxurious feel, which I have found more to my liking. And the 50 series handles -- stunning to look at, versatile, and an absolute pleasure to use. Need I say more? The 57 has a knot similarly sized to the Duke 2, but is less dense and much softer. The 56, the topic of this review, falls squarely in the "small brush" category and performs far beyond a level its small size may suggest. Nimble, luxurious, versatile, and impeccably engineered. I never thought I'd get a better brush than the Duke 2, but I was wrong. The Duke is now up for sale, and the 56 and 57 rule the shave den. Last, many thanks to Jane and Phil a the Classic edge for top-drawer, personalized customer service and fast shipping. And I always look forward to Jane's handwritten notes with every order -- such nice handwriting! Keep up the good work!