Thread: 2" vs. 3" strop...

Originally Posted by JimmyHAD

I have both 2-1/2 and 3". Never tried anything narrower. I probably could have gotten used to it if I had. Actually I learned on 2-1/2 and went to 3" later. I routinely use 2-1/2". Just found myself more comfortable with that.

I suspect the 3" would be easier in that, while you are beginning, you don't have to do the X stroke if you prefer the straight up and down. I know when I was an ironworker, years ago, it sure seemed easier to walk a 6" beam than a 4" beam. When you come right down to it one was probably the same as the other, but perception is everything.

It was only recently that I learned to NOT hold the razor's spine perpendicular to the edge of the strop, and, instead, to keep it at a 30-45* angle, and "lead" with the heel. Doing so helps me keep much better blade-to-strop contact -- this is especially true (and necessary) on my Red Latigo strop, with its heavy draw (and with "wedgier" blades).

Its easier to learn on a 3 inch. Yes there is a place for 2 inch. That being said what is your current skill set? You stated that you already own a 2 inch, Why not give the 3 inch a try? You already know where you've been. look forward to where you want to be.Do field testing with your tools and skill set now. Then do a comparison of the differing widths,You can always go back to and practice x-strokes and what not at your learning curve. And if you have an opps with your 2 inch it wont hurt your feelings/wallet so bad.