Balsa

What are the pros and cons to using balsa wood?

Balsa is easy to flatten and load with an abrasive but in the softer, lighter form might work poorly if one uses too much pressure. It's also great for making model airplanes. ;)

I was thinking the same thing last week; Should I buy some pieces and make them a paddle strop? But after some reading here, I decided it's not worth it. Apparently, they are much too harsh to the skin (with all kinds of pastes, even the CrOx and CeOx), and not really suited for stropping. I'm sure many disagree, but I like my edges as smooth as possible, and so far, leather works fine for me. But I might try it just for the heck of it.