Any alternative to Windsor Newton Series Seven? I've been using those brushes for over 50 years. The last 000 have not held up that well despite being well carded for. Thanks much!
John S.

I like Atlas paintbrushes. They're triangular in section so they won't go rolling all over the place.
https://www.megahobby.com/products/atlas-brush-1-taklon-detailing-brush.html


But I prefer buying them in-store so I can check the brush tip!

Raphael 8404 are good, I have two of them, some even say better than W&N. I will try also Rosemary&Co and DaVinci series 10, heard good things about them.

Regards!

Are you using different paints now than in the past? That might have something to do with brush longevity.

I have observed this with W&N series 7 brushes also. The first one I bought, 15 years ago, must have lasted 3 years. None of the ones I've bought recently have stayed great for more than 4 or 5 months.

@Barney - I have been using the same kind of paint from a brush throughout.

Full disclosure, I've been out of active builds for 20 years. All my supplies are from the old days. I still have a bottle of Imrie Risley paint.
I haven't bought a new brush in a very long time, but I noticed the acrylics were tougher on my brushes than the enamels. I guess it's the quicker drying time creating more stubborn clean up?
Today's acrylics may be different than those I've experienced....Tamiya are the newest I have.

I have some brushes from Da Vinci and Zem that I like. I'm mainly a figure guy so I use them quite a bit. I got the Da Vincis from Last Cavalry and Zem directly from the manufacturer; they're in the US. You can also get them from Sabot Miniatures.

Russ

Acrylics are VERY hard on paintbrushes. They have a very fast dry time, and the paint dries up between the bristles in the ferrule. This causes the bristles to flare out ruining the tip. A good cleaner is needed, and right after a painting session. I find Plaid brush cleaner/shampoo works very well.

Thanks to all of you. I have ordered some DaVinci "35" brushes. I see how they do. And Yes - I will do a better job cleaning them after every session.
Barnslayer - I started painting in about 1962 When I was 15. I still remember the Imrie Risely line. Sill have a few of them in small collection.