Thread: Newbie Strop Width Question

Just a question for the wise magi of this forum:

I'm new to SRP and i don't have a str8 or strop yet. I am looking into piecing together some stuff. I just want to be informed before I rush out and end up buying some piece of junk.
I was looking at all sorts of strops, and I was wondering what is the difference between a 2", 2 1/2" or 3"? Is it just a personal preference, or does the extra width provide an advantage? Since I am broke as a joke, I guess I was looking to see if the extra money to buy a wider strop is worth it.
I already have multiple raging ADs so I can't wait until I do make that first purchase to get me started--who knew a piece of steel could be so fascinating?

FWIW I am also new and sprung for a TM 2" with a 2" Practice strop...still getting used to the X stroke but its not that hard...just a little more practice probably than if I had a 3". I am completely satisfied with my 2"

A 3" strop allows you to just strop up and down without the x stroke...

And as others have stated...2" was the norm for a long time.

if you are broke check out the ruprazor filly strop...guys say they are good and cheap to boot.

Some prefer the 2-2 1/2" strops, some 3". I have a 3" strop but still use the x pattern. It is good habit but you can strop straight up and down the leather without any x pattern with the 3". As far as being inexpensive, get a Tony Miller strop. They are the best as far as I'm concerned and he makes some really inexpensive strops for beginners that will last a lifetime. Here is the link to his website. The Well Shaved Gentleman The Heirloom Razor Strop Company : Home

Even if you do have a 3" strop, it's good practise to do a bit of an X anyway. It ensures good contact between razor & strop. Straight up & down is easier, but if you learn that way it'll be harder to learn the X.
2" strops are fine, & that's what i use. I'd like a 2 1/2". A 3"? Now that's just decadent!

For years I only used the old vintage style 2 1/2 inch hanging strops and would not even try another one out. After some discussion Don convinced me to try the 3 inch strop and I said I would for 2 weeks only. Well.................. I have not used anything else since then. As a matter of fact, I have been using my big loom strop which is also 3 inches a ton lately as well.

Have fun,

Lynn

Originally Posted by Lynn

For years I only used the old vintage style 2 1/2 inch hanging strops and would not even try another one out. After some discussion Don convinced me to try the 3 inch strop and I said I would for 2 weeks only. Well.................. I have not used anything else since then. As a matter of fact, I have been using my big loom strop which is also 3 inches a ton lately as well.

Have fun,

Lynn

do you still use the x-pattern with the 3 inch strop ?

I'm not going to argue with Lynn..... but...

based on someone else s suggestion I squeezed the edges to slightly raise the middle of the strop and have found it to be an improvement in terms of draw.

based on this I would say that width is not that big of a deal

I will admit that it is easier to stay flat(er) (keep it from twisting) on a wide strop
but since I am only contacting the center inch, width is no longer an issue
I'm over the monster strop fever

I would advise you to save the extra money for a hone, or diamond paste, or chrome oxide, or a pasted paddle with both, or soap, or a brush, or a mug, or shave oil, or honemeister services, or ....

GET THE IDEA?