Thread: Another stropping question

My inexpensive leather strop has a bit of mat, like suede. Is that common in strops, or are they usually smooth?

Originally Posted by Elnones

My inexpensive leather strop has a bit of mat, like suede. Is that common in strops, or are they usually smooth?

Usually smooth.
Some high end strops come with a suede plus a smooth.
Smooth is preferred as it is a firmer surface.

Originally Posted by stoneandstrop

Usually smooth.
Some high end strops come with a suede plus a smooth.
Smooth is preferred as it is a firmer surface.

I guess I have to spend a bit more.

Until you have mastered stropping it won’t make a big difference. I did have a strop similar when I started, it still worked fine once I got my technique down pat. When I got a longer strop (my cheaply was very short) it made a bit of a difference. My first two strops got fairly nicked up. Definitely a sign of poor technique.

Originally Posted by Elnones

I guess I have to spend a bit more.

You can use it and see how well it works.
A napped leather is sometimes used overseas, kind of regional.
For me a harder leather will restore the edge a little better. The suede will clean it well prior to the smooth leather.

Originally Posted by stoneandstrop

You can use it and see how well it works.
A napped leather is sometimes used overseas, kind of regional.
For me a harder leather will restore the edge a little better. The suede will clean it well prior to the smooth leather.

After more than a month now, the razor seems as sharp as ever, so I suppose it’s working. What an incredible difference in the morning routine. I wish I had started straight razor shaving years ago.

The milled, light natural cowhide German 'prima' strops are great if that is what is being described.
I wish I still had one. What? Dovo, Herold, other names.
Good feel and performance. Excellent, effective beginners strop at a good price point.
More reps required, very easy to use.

I mean if you have expendable money go for it man. I would caution you to temper your expectations when getting a new strop. Right now, a new strop really isn't going to improve your shaves much. But you most definitely will enjoy stropping on a nicer one.
-Laramie-

You will find your sweet spot in not only your strop but how you hone a razor. However, it won't happen overnight! Once you find what works for you, stick with it, especially if you are getting consistently great shaves.

Here's some advice from an old man that you may take with a grain of salt - there are those who can't be content with excellence. They must try to seek perfection only to find frustration! Like I said, once you find that, which works for your face, you have achieved that which you have been searching for. It can be that simple.....

Yep. That Olympic victory, 100th of a second difference can drive you nuts once you start chasing it. Some call it "chasing the dragon." It's easy to do to yourself.
If, as you say, the blade "...seems as sharp as ever," then I don't see where you have an urgent need to replace it. You're enjoying your shaves and it's working. That's pretty good for where you are.