Quote Originally Posted by Techy
Hi folks, Whats the proper way to use the strop? Should I start out slow on the strop? Is speed really an issue? I have the Illinois 127 Strop.
As I tried to strop on the leather side of it, I have noticed I must be doing it wrong somehow. I see little nick marks on the top left of the strop under the gold horse head stamp. Gosh Im so afraid im gonna ruin my new strop and the keen edge of the razor. I have rolled it flat as can be with a glass bottle and it is hanging nice and neat. im thinking as I can come towards myself im not flipping that blade correctly. And its nicking the outer left edge of the strop. No its not huge nick marks tho just small marks is all. Thanks for any insight!
OK .... take deep breaths ..... one, two now, exhale!

Speed is NOT an issue on a strop. Keeping the blade flat *is* an issue. Go slow. Pay attention to keep the razor flat on the strop. Any nicks on the strop can be smoothed out with sand paper. No worries ..... we all do that!