Thread: Basic chromium balsa question

Ok, really basic question for you -- I just bought a chromium balsa strop here, and it just occurred to me that I've never seen any discussion about how to use one properly. From what I understand, the stroke is exactly like what I use for a leather strop, right? Spine-first direction, then roll the razor along the spine, and then spine-first the other direction, right? And no water on the strop, right?

Thanks!!

Originally Posted by JeffE

Ok, really basic question for you -- I just bought a chromium balsa strop here, and it just occurred to me that I've never seen any discussion about how to use one properly. From what I understand, the stroke is exactly like what I use for a leather strop, right? Spine-first direction, then roll the razor along the spine, and then spine-first the other direction, right? And no water on the strop, right?

Thanks!!

right, and very little pressure if at all

How many strokes do you use, and how do you know when you are done?

Ooops, one more too -- I just bought one of those balsa block things, but how do I know when it's "worn out" or "used up"? Do those things last for a few razors, or a lifetime, or something in between? Thanks!

6-10 laps.

Originally Posted by JeffE

How many strokes do you use, and how do you know when you are done?

Ooops, one more too -- I just bought one of those balsa block things, but how do I know when it's "worn out" or "used up"? Do those things last for a few razors, or a lifetime, or something in between? Thanks!

you will see with the time the CrO will get darker, because it loads with the metal you are taking off the bevel. Eventually it will be so loaded that you will not see as much fresh green color then just buy new balsa and apply CrO.

Thanks, Stephan and others!! I appreciate the help. -Jeff