Thread: Paddle or Hanging Strop

Hi everybody. I am brand new to this but have gone through a lot of the forums. Great place for info on str8 razors. I was wondering if I could get some advice on the pluses and minuses of using a paddle vs hanging strop? Does one do a better job than another? Is one better or easier to use for a newbie? I would appreciate any advice I could get.

Thanks
Jim

Welcome Jim!

I would say a hanging strop for everyday use. For me its a lot more convenient and I feel like I get a better feel for the edge going over the leather.

If initial funds are a concern, you can certainly get a multi sided paddle and use one for everyday stropping and one or more with pastes for touching up your razors. In the end though, most do add a hanging strop.

Others who know more than me will chime in soon.

Jordan

Thanks Jordan...It sounds to me like the hanging strop is the way to go. Is there a situation where a paddle strop may be a better alternative or were paddle strops designed to offer a conveniant alternative?

Jim

Paddle strops, especially the two sided can be a very convenient alternative when one is traveling. Both have their pros and cons, but many people seem to prefer the paddle for travel and touch up's (whether 2 or 4 sides), and like already stated, hanging strops for daily use. Try not to get too confused initially by the myriad of issues surrounding the paddle versus hanging argument, just find out what you like, and/or what works best for YOU and go with that.

Originally Posted by jimmyman

Paddle strops, especially the two sided can be a very convenient alternative when one is traveling. Both have their pros and cons, but many people seem to prefer the paddle for travel and touch up's (whether 2 or 4 sides), and like already stated, hanging strops for daily use. Try not to get too confused initially by the myriad of issues surrounding the paddle versus hanging argument, just find out what you like, and/or what works best for YOU and go with that.

Agreed. I just got a two sided paddle from Tony to use for travel (its sweet! ). Its shorter than an hanger and I don't have to worry about creasing it while packing.

Jordan

Jim,

I have both but for different reasons. The hanging strop I use before I shave to correct the edge (so to speak) the paddle strop I have is 4 sided and pasted I use that to sharpen the blade. If I had more money I would get a 2 sided paddle for traveling. Just my 2c.

So it sounds like the hanging strop is still the way to go but the paddle strop can be used as a sort of optional tool. I think I'll start with the hanging strop then go from there. Thanks for the advice.

Jim

I recently purchased a razor, hanging strop, etc. so that I can begin shaving with a straight razor. What do people typically hang their strop from? I was watching a few videos, but I can't tell what the strop is "attached" to on the wall, or wherever it's hanging from. I was hoping to avoid doing something crude like screwing an eyehook into the wall, etc.

I apologize if this is a stupid question, but I haven't been able to find the answer yet. The Dovo strop I purchased has a circular loop at the hanging end, just don't know what to attach it to.

As soon as I get my razor from Lynn, it will be time to put the strop to use!

I use a loop of wire from a frame hanging kit on the doorknob of the linen closet it works.

Jordan

Originally Posted by mental

I recently purchased a razor, hanging strop, etc. so that I can begin shaving with a straight razor. What do people typically hang their strop from? I was watching a few videos, but I can't tell what the strop is "attached" to on the wall, or wherever it's hanging from. I was hoping to avoid doing something crude like screwing an eyehook into the wall, etc.

I apologize if this is a stupid question, but I haven't been able to find the answer yet. The Dovo strop I purchased has a circular loop at the hanging end, just don't know what to attach it to.

As soon as I get my razor from Lynn, it will be time to put the strop to use!

Well they do have some nice chrome hooks. Here are two threads in the strop forum that might provide insight.

First, Second
have at it!