Thread: Strop Paste

This may sound stupid to you guys,but why do you need to paste a strop?
I'm still new to this game so don't know.
And how long before I should get it honed after stropping?
And what stone and grit should I buy?

Hi Eventhorizon,

The short answer to your whole question is, well, there isn't one. Strop paste is for giving a razor that extra little bit after honing or if it is starting to get a little sluggish. It is simply abrasive particles that are applied to a strop and can really make the difference between a sharp blade and an "oh yeah!" blade. .5 chromium oxide is one of the staples and diamond pastes/sprays are great too. I resisted using them for a while, but then got some Crox. I should have done it from day one since it is simply great.

Pastes are not there to replace honing or stropping but they can help a lot. With regard to honing/hones and how long, that's a YMMV type thing. Some gents need to touch up their edges after a few shaves, some get many more before having to consider stones. A good strop with proper technique should make your razors edge last quite a long time.

I would highly recommend reading as much as you can around here and utilize the search fnction on the forum. There is a ton of great information here and with some time and patience you can learn more about straight razors then you thought you could!

there are some non-grit pastes to keep your strop pliant and healthy over the years. There are many, many options with strop care and treatment.

Hi MaritimeFantastic,

Thank you,Your answer is very informative and just what us new guys need.

Cheers Neil.