Stropping epiphany (small one)

I'm always getting ****ed at my illinois 127 strop cause when i hold it by the handle it tends to bow in middle lengthwise. i don't know if anyone else has this problem, but it seems like it might be a fairly common thing happening to beginners like me. So today i had an idea and i choked up on the strop. ignored the handle completly and ever so slightly bent the end with handle down. This got rid of the bow in the middle and i could feel my blade get a better draw. i thought i would share this just in case any one else had this problem. This might be kind of a "well duh" thing but i just thought i would share

I'm glad to hear you found a way that worked for you.
I have several strops that has no handles or D-rings and to be honest, they work every bit as good for me:)
I've also done what you are describing. It sure works:)

you might be able to attach a "backer" or "stiffener" to the back of the handle.. maybe wood or plastic cut as the same shape of the handle or cut the stiching at the end of the handle and slide a piece of metal into the handle.... just a thought... or even better just keep doin what yer doin:)

Old time barbers use to regulary cut any handles off their strops and use them that way.