Hi, thanks for your reply.

I am new to this and am in the process or researching to purchase my first straight razor.

I dont have a strop yet, and the leather source is a consideration important to me. I know farmers where I can obtain leather from old cows (I actually own a cow being cared for by a farmer I used to work for, so I can use the leather once the cow is old or in ill health) and have one hide put away from when I did a similar thing a number of years ago.

I do wear leather shoes, as I find that synthetic options either a) sweat and dont last; b) the synthetic alternatives cause more harm than good... I purchase very good quality footwear whenever leather is involved (ie RM Williams, church's etc) so I can get 20 years from a pair of shoes, with good care and have them resoled when required. I admit I dont like using animal products when an animal has been harmed to produce the item, but also try to take a long term view, ie. the cost to the environment for a synthetic product; whether the use of the animal comes from a byproduct of other industries (such as gelatin) etc. If a humane and sustainable option isnt available for a pruduct, such as a shaving brush, I will find alternatives (such as a shave cream I can apply by hand).

Would still love to hear everyone else's thoughts. Please know I am not judging others or their product choices, I am simply seeking advice or assistance based on my own lifestyle choices. (I am an animal nut, always have been since a child and always will be. I know Id feel guilty if I didnt do what I can to help animal welfare or global sustainability - to give you an idea, every holiday I have taken in the last 10 years involves volunteering at animal shelters, zoos etc (plus I always make time for a few beers etc on my travels lol))