Stropping Str8 or X-Pattern?

I was just curious for those that have strops wide enough for a straight pattern stropping do you strop this way or is an X-pattern still needed?

X pattern.


Scott

When I did use a wide strop I still employed the X-pattern.
Now my favourite strop is thinner, so I must use the
X-pattern.

- Scott

I think its probably wise to use the x pattern but I find it a little difficult to do. I usually just go up and down, adjust, then go up and down again and spend the time to get the entire edge. It seems to work okay for me, but then again I don't have any aspirations to go to the stropping Olympics.

X-pattern. On the wider strops I flex the strop down the middle so it's arched and only use an inch or so of the edge.

I go straight up and down the strop, but I have the blade angled - heel leading. If the razor has a heavy smile, I use the x-pattern.

Jordan

i go straight up and down. i also try to use a x pattern im not sure what works best for me and my t.i that i have been using for about three weeks:shrug: michael

I've been using the X pattern. My strop is wide enough but it's not 100% flat

I use an X pattern. It seems more natural than going straight across

I had a paddle strop that needed an x-pattern, but then got a 3" strop from Tony Miller which could fit the entire blade. Since I had the same question, I decided a prudent approach wold be to do both. I do an x-pattern first, then do a straight up and back with the heel leading so I can keep the blade more even for a lighter touch

X pattern stropping aligns the stropping forces with the striations created during X patern honing. Not across them.


If you hone straight across, then you probably should also strop straight across. But I think the diagonal striations create a better cutting edge.


Scott