Thread: Paste for TM Combo Paddle Strop

I think this is a newbie question, but I will also post it in the strops section just in case.

I am going to order a 4-sided combo paddle strop from Tony when he gets back. My object is to use it as an all-in-one strop/sharpener, at least until I get a little more experience.

My question is, which three pastes should I order for the sides? What grit, diamond, chromium, etc?

Any help would be appreciated.

Thanks,
stats

My personal choice would be .25 and .5 diamond and chromium oxide. The diamond pastes do a great job but sometimes the end result can feel a bit harsh. The chromium oxide results in what is generally described as a smoother or more comfortable edge. Having said that, different razors respond differently to the various pastes and you need to experiment a bit. So, if you got these three I think that you would be in pretty good shape in terms of having a good combo of pastes for most razors.

You should get lots of opinions on this question. This is solidly in the YMMV area.

As an aside, you will probably want to get a hanging strop at some point for your every day use. The pastes are intended for an occasional touch up, not for daily stropping, and while the unpasted leather side of the 4 sided paddle will work, it's not optimal. You might consider picking up one of Tony's entry level strops when you order the paddle. They are very inexpensive and will get the job done just fine.

I agree with the above choice of pastes and the reasoning. I will also encourage the use of a plan leather hanging strop. It just works better than a paddle strop for me. One other consideration speaking for a hanging strop is cross contamination of grits on the paddle strop. It is so easy to do.


Just my two cents,