Thread: Bad strop?

Originally Posted by gssixgun

The #827 is a Russian finish it looks rough as compared to say the #127 which is the same piece of leather only a smooth finish..

Whether that one is good or bad I really can't tell from the pics, it might be bad it might just need some rubbing,,

The ridged back of the strop is a symptom of the Russian finish, it allows for more flex with less finishing on the front of the strop..

Try rubbing it in with your palm if it doesn't work then request a new one from the Vendor,, I would not use any oils etc: the #827 should have plenty..

Are the different models (Russian, Scotch, etc.) distinguished by the finish on the surface?

I know its a bit late to say anything but here's a picture of the very same strop I got almost 2 years ago.

Although not as rough as your pictures the strop has a rather striated rough texture and is a bit fuzzy. I cant really say it destroyed any of my razors but i just don't like dragging my blades over what i think looks like asphalt after a hard winter. That being said, I do like its linen side I find it a very tightly woven fabric a bit stiff but breaks in very well and if anything is great support for sharpening pastes or crayons. i may just do what Glen said and smooth sand it and make it a pasted strop. I'm just wondering whether or not these strops are supposed to be this way or is it a QC thing?