The three is nice - straight up and down - I just have to watch about keeping it dead pan flat

The 2.5 is great on the X pattern but have not had it long enough to have an opinion if the X pattern would be easier on the 2 inch strop. The only reason I say that is that (based on my current experience) I currently feel like I would be able to do a better X with a 2 inch strop. not sure why yet.

For me the verdict is still out - I think I need to order a 2inch strop to test my theory but 3 strops with felt, linen, cotton seems a bit excessive so early on.