Thread: Quick question before I order a strop

Originally Posted by honedright

I have used X pattern stropping for a long time. I do the X pattern in a particular way though, based on my observation of a barber stropping at one time. I started stropping that way, and perfected my technique, which has given me excellent results.

Can you give is some details on how your x-pattern may be different? Is an x-pattern not an x-pattern? Inquiring minds want to know.

Originally Posted by Brad

Can you give is some details on how your x-pattern may be different? Is an x-pattern not an x-pattern? Inquiring minds want to know.

Wow, had a long detailed explanation, then lost it while trying to post

So I'll try again, shorter this time -

Instead of a static X, think of a winshield wiper that has a laterally moving, back and forth, pivot point. Instead of begining with the razor perpendicular across the strop, the stroke begins with the razor angled across. First with the point towards the top end of the strop, and then ending with the point diagonally towards the end of the strop.

Consider this movement in relation to the diagonally angled cutting striations created by X pattern honing (with the razor canted back about 45 deg.) and you might understand what I'm getting at.



Scott

I use an X-pattern; as in the barber manuals. I almost never use the linen or canvas and have come to prefer a 1.5" to 2.5" inch hanger (latigo mostly). I would strop heel-leading on a wide strop, whether I used an X-stroke or not. A lot of it is just personal preference. You should just try linen once you can strop well on leather and see if you get good results with it. Some like linen/canvas, some don't.

The same situation for pastes; try it and see. I don't use pastes and prefer the edge from a barber or other 10k to 12k hone. Once again, you'll need to try it to know if you like it. Pastes can get a very sharp edge that is preferred by many.