Beautiful New Handmade Strop: A True Work of Art
Hi All-I just got this beautiful handmade strop crafted by our very own hidestoart/aka Kevin. After trying out several leathers at his house a few weeks back, I decided to go with English bridle. It's a rich butterscotch color, very smooth and hard.
http://i767.photobucket.com/albums/x...psexkgfzin.jpg
Of course I had to try it out immediately! It has a light, smooth draw, certainly less than the Tony Miller latigo I have used up to now, but I like it, a lot. We'll see how it develops as it loosens up and breaks in. The blades I tried it out on, a W&B and an Improved Eagle, were both hair-poppin' sharp after 40 laps. What you'll also notice is the craftsmanship. I just let Kevin go wild on the handle design, and this is what he came up with:
http://i767.photobucket.com/albums/x...ps73h5t6yp.jpg
http://i767.photobucket.com/albums/x...psudboers9.jpg
I just love the silver pop rivets (or whatever they're called), the texturing, the color contrast, just unbelievable! The D-ring/hanging end is just as stunning:
http://i767.photobucket.com/albums/x...psidp0ab8i.jpg
Here's a pic of the whole thing:
http://i767.photobucket.com/albums/x...pslpv3tuac.jpg
And to add to the box of goodies, Kevin put a beautiful sheath on one of my son's handmade knives that was/is a Christmas gift for my brother. Here they are together:
http://i767.photobucket.com/albums/x...psfqzqfkbq.jpg
The knife and sheath; check out that intricate basketweave!
http://i767.photobucket.com/albums/x...pslkzgr4b8.jpg
My hats off to a true craftsman, and a man I am proud and humbled to call friend! Here's to you, Kevin. Aaron
