Thread: What kind of leather?

I'm going to order a new strop, but can't decide what kind of leather. Any thought will be appreciated.
Thanks

Choices of leather are completely subjective as are a lot preferences with wet shaving.
You can always email SRD and Don will give you some advice depending on where your stand
experience wise. I know SRD carries a nice beginners strop so if you are lacking experience
that may be a good fit for your first strop. Save your money for more expensive leathers
until you are comfortable with your stropping skills.

Be careful.

Don't be seduced by the horse, cordovan shell and exotics like kangaroo, buffalo, etc. They are very nice if you have the cash. Buy one if you like, but technique is far more important than the leather. I have a cheap 2" Illinois (well maintained by me ) that I can still get an incredible shaving edge upon.

Even though I have a few exotics my recommendation would be for a good 3" cowhide strap from SRD or other reputable vendor. It can still get the job done for most shavers.

Good luck.

Thanks for the input guys. I was going back and forth between the SRD Premium I and the English Bridle. I finally pulled the trigger on the Premium I 10 minutes before lz6 posted. I've been using an old strop from the Bay for almost a year and feel confident about my ability to not mess up a nice one (knock on wood). I'll let you know if I think I chose wisely in a few days.

Well, I guess my recommendation for 'roo hide as a nice middle of the road (draw) is out the window then...


Mick

Hey Mick, I did think about that too. Maybe down the road when I "need" another strop.
Thanks

I think you'll like the Premium I.

It's a great strop. I find that it performs best when you give it a daily rub with your palm, and keep the goop like neatsfoot oil or whatever in the cupboard for your shoes.

I learned a neatsfoot oil strop lesson the hard way.