I would agree that the bulk of SMF members do not congregate here for purely pragmatic reasons. Of course, we are all interested in getting a good shave, but the interest in mastering traditional shaving tools and supplies is even more about connecting with tradition and enjoying the process, while socializing with an amazing group of gentlemen.
Many of us approach traditional wetshaving as an affordable luxury. (And who ever said there was anything practical about luxury?) Multiple razors, blades, soaps, creams, brushes, aftershaves, colognes, and what have you add new facets and dimension to this enjoyment.
As to my quest for the ideal triple-milled shaving soap:
I shaved last night with Institut Karite shaving soap. In use, I didn't even detect the scent when loading the brush and lathering, which is a very good thing in my case. I didn't seem to get the beard conditioning of the Pre de Provence or much glide, but I did get a close, irritation-free shave. This soap definitely shows promise and warrants further experimentation.
Others have suggested the AOS (Art of Shaving) soaps, the unscented version in particular. I checked the AOS website and saw that their other soaps are all scented with essential oils (EO), so I intend to try their unscented and lemon varieties. I found that the only AOS store in the State of Washington is located across the mountains in the town where I grew up, so I think I'll drop in there come spring. There is no hurry in the meantime, as I have more than enough shaving soaps to keep me occupied.
I thank you all, once again, for your feedback. I am interested in an ultimate rotation of 4 - 5 preferred soaps, which may well in turn be reduced further over time, so even the discussion about "collecting" is a valued contribution to this thread. Thank you, gentlemen.
- Murray