Stropping after shaving ... or not ? ... But why ?

Hi all,


so I'm confused by few (seemingly) contradictory information/advices.

Stropping after shaving would be:
1) GOOD: because it would (help) dry the razor, and in particular its edge, thus reducing the risk of rusting.
2) BAD: because the edge needs to 'rest' and some 'stuff' (sorry don't remember what) need to re-align themself naturally with time.
3) BAD: because doing so would (by some unclear process) deposit some dirt, metal, or scraps... onto the strop.

However, I've also read that #2 or #3 would be myths propagated by ignorant people (a bit like me :)).

So my questions are:
- what are the actual real advantages of stropping after shaving? Why / How?
- what are the actual real drawbacks or risks of stropping after shaving? Why / How?
- what do you do/suggest?


Thank you
Christophe

This is one of those questions that boils down to YMMV. Some strop after to dry. Some don't. I fall into the camp that doesn't. No real reason, just prefer to let mine air dry. That way I can be certain that the scales are dry as well as the edge before I put it away.

The only bad is if you suck at stropping

I strop before each shave. Gives me something to do while the pre-shave oil sets in and while my brush soaks in hot water....

I strop afterwards to remove any residue from the shave, that might remain on the edge. Then a clean coat of mineral oil is applied.

Hello, christophe,
I always strop before the shave, but find no need to strop after. I clean and dry the razor thoroughly and then oil it before it goes in the rack.

I strop before the shave then about 20/20 linen leather after. I have never oiled my blades, I leave them in a stand so they dry and put them away when selecting a razor for the next days shave.

If you are stropping correctly, I see no advantage or risk.

I think if I told you the same people that disagreed with me last time will disagree with me again this time.

I think you should strop whenever you feel the urge but as far as your razor goes I would strop either the full count before of half before and half after. Personally I only strop before shaving. By the way years ago when I frequented barber shops as a kid when they still shaved I only saw barbers strop when the next customer sat down in the chair never after he finished the last.