strop question

I am just starting out, my question to all about my strop, it's illinois 827, the surface feels different in one direction (more drag), well I am not sure how to describe it but if I run my finger up stroke it feels a bit harsh and smooth on the way down. How does it affect the razor and is it normal?

It's normal for the #827. It has a very pronounced grain. Do not worry about it. If anything, try and strop with less pressure as you are going against the grain, than with. Still, it should be firm enough pressure to feel some drag.

If it really bothers you, you can try dressing the strop lightly with a pumice, But it's really not necessary. Just lightly apply some Fromm, or other, strop dressing, let it soak in (some subsequent rubbing with the palm helps too) and strop your razor.

Over time the strop will naturally smooth out. It's a good strop. Just learn to use it and enjoy the results.

Also, just for educational purposes - the "Russian" type strops were considered superior for heavier wedge type straights. Probably because these heavier blades seem to benefit from more drag, or draw, that the Russian strops tend to provide. They were the strops given to students in barber college years ago.


Scott

thank you, informative and to the point!