Thread: Use only a flat strop on these razors

I bought a new razor for my collection - Jaques Lecoultre au Sentier, interchandable two blades. Interesting stamp on cardbox: Use only a flat strop on these razors. What's the mean? Flat strop = paddle strop?

I’m not sure about the stamp on the box but it looks like and earlier model JLC with a knurled screw head securing the blade. The later models used a slot head screw. Also the boxes for those are often not in great condition, but yours looks pretty pristine. Nice score. Now to look around and see if I can find an answer to your question.

I have no idea why they would say to only use a flat strop or even mean by "flat strop". I do have the same type of razor, frameback, but without the removable blade option and use a hanging strop to strop it.

Bob

It seems that it would be a translation for either one of two options. Either it means a paddle strop or a hanging strop held taut. Of the two the paddle strop seems to be the more likely meaning given that it is a thing and not a method of use.

Additional info and pictures about the razor. Plastic scales, brass (not steel) knurled screw head, "M M & Co" stamp on the tang, both blades has #2 stamp. The case has a metal medallion that says "Est. 1819 C. Klauberg & Bros. Inc. Woolworth Building New York".

That is in very nice condition and a handsome addition to your collection. In case you have not researched Klauberg and Brothers Inc, here is a bit of info https://straightrazorpalace.com/razo...rg-bros-2.html . My guess would be that the M M & Co on the tang refers to the maker of the razor in Switzerland. Likely located in one of the French speaking Cantons of Switzerland judging by the predominantly French writing on the razor coffin.

Bob

Lovely razor in mint condition

https://straightrazorpalace.com/razo...itzerland.html

Bit of history for ya

Great link, Mark!

If you look carefully at the photographs, There is one with a tapered spine getting larger as it approached the tip. The version would be the one I would consider for the use of the flat strop, as the taper would assure a good bevel angle. Coulter did not, to the best of my knowledge, mark his razor frames. He was also said to have made his own blade steel from the material of his watch springs. I have a blade of his that looks like wootz, but am unable to prove the concept.

~Richard

a flat strop could be indicating the use of a loom/paddle or hanging strop over a hard Box type strop, as the several I have seen all had a raised curve (convex) stropping face rather than a hollow (concave) face like a hanging or loom strop would achieve
just my thoughts
Dion