Hello all...

Getting my foot into the straight razor game due to a variety of factors... one is to get a get a good custom shave and better control of my shaving experience, another is I'm sick of the waste and price gouging for the decent disposable razors...

Found what looks to be a great vintage razor for my first time shaver on the classifieds section, and now am looking for a strop. I want a good strop that allows for a nice long stroke, but don't want to invest a lot of money while I'm just getting my foot in the door.

There aren't many strops on the classifieds, and it seems most of the new ones from well-known manufacturer's are at least $30. I've seen a few vintage ones on E-Bay along with cheaper ones made by Selective NY Brand.

Is a vintage strop worth considering, or do I run a risk with damaged/wrinkled leather hurting the blade? I know Selective NY makes cheapo razors to avoid, but do you think their strops are worth considering? Saving a buck or two while starting up would be nice, but I don't want to buy a cheap strop if it will ruin the shave...

Cheers,

- HJ