Thread: Breaking in a strop

Hi guys,

I have just received my new DOVO strop (from the gentleman's shop) and was wondering if it needs breaking-in?

Does this need to be done or have I just seen something about this for older style strops?

Thanks a lot

steve

Hi Steve,

The strop should be ready to go. I think the
breaking in process applied mainly to the strops
of years ago. I know that the one I ordered
from Tony was ready to go from the start.


Terry

If the strop feels supple and smooth it's generally ready to go. I'd just apply some strop dressing periodically and, whenever you think of it, pull it out and rub it with your palm a few times. That should keep your strop in good condition. Oh, don't forget to clean it once in a while too.

Scott

I remember when I got my first strop which was a Dovo also, before I discovered this site I gave it the old roller pin treatment but I realize now that was unnecessary. Modern strops are ready to go right out of the box.

I took a smooth mason jar, filled it with hot water and rubbed my 361 down before adding some veg oil (which seemed to do nothing) and then some mink oil (which took a couple of days to dry) and that made it nice, soft and smooth.

X

How often is "periodically"? I have a paddle strop and a hanging strop from tony and some of his strop dressing but I'm wondering how often I need to reapply it.

-- Gary F.

Another thing you can do is rub the palms of our hand over the strop, working it slowly. It will pick up the natural oils off of your hands!

RT (Giving credit to Lynn for that tip!)

gfoster,

Periodically = maybe once a month or every other month. Won't hurt if you go longer though.

Scott

Ok, guess I'll dress my strops this weekend then. Thanks!

-- Gary F.

Good! Just be sure to use a small amount of dressing (just enough to cover), rub it in well with your fingers and palm, then let sit over night. Wipe the strop with a cloth the next day (to pick up any excess dressing) and rub with your palm again and it's ready to go.

Scott