Boar Bristle vs. Pig Bristle: What’s the Difference?
Boar bristle and pig bristle differ significantly in their structural characteristics and appearance, properties, and applications, primarily reflected in the following aspects:
1. Structural Characteristics and Visual Differences
Feature | Boar Bristle | Pig Bristle |
Color | Mostly brown, gray, or black, darker and uneven in color | Mostly white or pale pink, some breeds have black or mixed colors |
Thickness (Diameter) | Approx. 0.20mm, coarser and more elastic, with a thicker root | Approx. 0.15-0.16mm, finer and softer, with lower elasticity |
Length | Generally longer, especially the back bristles, which can exceed 10 cm | Generally shorter, lengths of most pig hair are only 2-5 cm |
Hair Follicle Structure | Single follicle type, making the hair harder and less flexible | Compound follicle type, making the hair softer and more flexible |
Texture | Hollow or semi-hollow, tough and resilient | Dense and solid, softer and less resilient |
2.Physical Properties and Characteristics
Feature | Boar Bristle | Pig Bristle |
Elasticity | Strong elasticity, resistant to bending | Average elasticity, prone to breakage |
Durability | Highly durable and wear-resistant | Less durable and more prone to wear |
Water Absorption | Moderate, does not swell or deform easily | Higher water absorption, more likely to deform |
3. Common Applications and Uses
Application | Boar Bristle | Pig Bristle |
Brush Manufacturing | Widely used in high-end oil painting brushes, shaving brushes, shoe brushes, and industrial brushes | Mainly used in paintbrushes and oil painting brushes due to its softer texture |
Hairbrushes & Combs | Frequently used in premium hairbrushes and combs for natural scalp care | Rarely used in hairbrushes due to its softness |
Climbing Brushes | Used in climbing brushes for cleaning rock surfaces and holds | Rarely used in climbing brushes |
Clothing/Decoration | Sometimes used in traditional ethnic clothing, hat decorations, and arrow fletching | Rarely used |
Industrial Applications | Used in high-temperature filtration materials, friction materials, etc. | Seldom used for industrial purposes |
Filling Material | Rarely used for filling | Sometimes used in low-end filling applications |
4. Pricing and Market Demand Comparison
- Boar bristle is in high demand for premium brushes, such as oil painting brushes, shaving brushes, hairbrushes, climbing brushes, and shoe brushes due to its elasticity, durability, and excellent bristle characteristics, making it more expensive.
- Pig Bristle is commonly used in paintbrushes and oil painting brushes, where a softer bristle is preferred. It is generally more affordable and widely available.
5. Primary Sources and Origins
- Boar bristle is mainly obtained from wild or farmed boars in regions such as Europe and Southeast Asia.
- Pig bristle is a byproduct of slaughtered pigs, mainly from breeds like white pigs and black pigs.
Conclusion
Boar bristle has a larger diameter (~0.20mm) compared to Pig bristle (~0.15-0.16mm), making it significantly superior in hardness, elasticity, and durability. It is mainly used for high-end brushes, such as oil painting brushes, shaving brushes, hairbrushes, climbing brushes, and shoe brushes. Pig Bristle, being softer and more flexible, is primarily used in paintbrushes and oil painting brushes but is less durable than Boar bristle.
