Quote Originally Posted by Ian2051 View Post
alright, thanks Bob. I will try shaving with a distance of 1-2 spine widths. I thought you had to strop after it was honed? no?
Try short light strokes when you do. I take it you were using a bigger gap than 1 to 2 spine widths?

Like the others have said, more than likely a pro honed razor comes honed and strop ready for use. I have shave tested some blades that I have honed without stropping just to see what difference stropping would make. Generally though I strop before a shave but you would not believe how easy it is to dull a blade stropping it poorly. I did just that when I was starting out straight shaving. It is just that shaving with a pro honed shave ready razor without stropping will give you a good idea of what sharp is and when you strop it before use on the next shave if it feels duller in use you then know your stropping is not up to par.

Let us know how you make out.

Bob