Thread: Stropping for Sharpness

I have come to the conclusion that if I strop my razor at an acute angle, about 45-50 degrees back and forth on the strop I will produce a better and sharper edge.

This method produces less deflection and the strop does not roll into the edge. Rather it runs more along-side the edge.

So, you angle the razor and flip it as you normally would.

Ill try to upload a picture for you.




With an angle as depicted above the razor is supported from deflection by the tip and the heel of the blade itself.



In this picture above, of a traditional angle, the strop has a tendency to sag lengthwise directly into my edge, an edge that I am trying to keep consistent. This angle causes dulling and leads to rolling.

Something to think about I suppose when you see all these 2.5 inch strops running around. I think this would benefit those with a 3 inch strop, but I'd like a few guys to try it and see what they think.

i won't recommend this technique for beginners because as you might imagine failing to roll the razor might damage your strop.

Anyway, my edges have improved. The strop does not naturally deflect as much and that deflection does not tear directly into the edge at 90 degree angle, it runs more parallel and now seems to sharpen the edge better.

I'm going to try and link a vid, forgive me the lack of apparent skill. I am holding the camera and stropping on a surface where I can't roll my fingers, but it looks like this: