Thread: draw

so I'm having a bit of a problem with my usual strop. its like it has absolutely no draw. my razors are becoming nigh unshaveable after about 3 shaves so about 9 passes with fifty strops.between shaves. pulled out a different strop and its back to shave ready in 20 strops.

its 3 inch horse hide, any thoughts

Neatsfoot oil will increase draw. Apply a small amount, rub it in with you fingertips and let it set up awhile. Apply more if you need it but don't get in a hurry. A little goes a long way.

Have always wondered what Draw meant, if it means anything,More/less? what do's draw do?
been around this site awhile,have seen an answere.

I was under the impression that 'draw' itself had no impact on the effectiveness of the blade and was merely an aesthetic sensation...

For example, konayamas - which feel almost glass-smooth - have an extremely light (e.g. little) draw. Bridle leather strops, by comparison, have a medium draw (e.g. offer a greater sensation of resistance). Yet each is just as effective at prepping the blade edge for shaving.

That said, perhaps the problem isn't the leather itself. How old or heavily used is the strop? Is it possible the surface has become a bit dirty or waxy from use? Might be worth rubbing it down really good with your palms or a tiny bit of leather cleaner before hitting it with neatsfoot oil.

I will not touch my strop with anything other than my palm or a damp tea towel, followed by a dry one. I do not recommend extreme measures unless the strop is old and you are trying to convince yourself you can save it!
I washed an old one with lather, pumice. Ruined! I soaked one with neetsfoot, ruined. I have used leather cleaner and it never felt the same. Yes, heavier draw does do something different as does lighter draw. I am of the persuasion that different razors like different leathers. JMO!

(this is a ploy to lure Neil Miller out! )

Originally Posted by sharptonn

I will not touch my strop with anything other than my palm or a damp tea towel, followed by a dry one. I do not recommend extreme measures unless the strop is old and you are trying to convince yourself you can save it!
I washed an old one with lather, pumice. Ruined! I soaked one with neetsfoot, ruined. I have used leather cleaner and it never felt the same. Yes, heavier draw does do something different as does lighter draw. I am of the persuasion that different razors like different leathers. JMO!

(this is a ploy to lure Neil Miller out! )

You said it SharptonnWhat do's draw do to an edge??

I'm not pro but I thought that draw had nothing to do with the strops ability to smooth an edge. I was under the understanding that draw was just preference. Now I'm really confused.

I really need to learn to type faster