Thread: strop gift. trivia/info etc? And care of?

Hello again everybody,

This is an extension of my recent post/query about some hones I received as a gift. I also received this vintage loom strop. In this case, I don't need an i.d. on it (it's written on the box), but any history or trivia about it would be welcome. Also, any advice about caring for the leather (and handle too). There are 4 sides to the tool. One is a fine wood -- the veneer seems to be chipping off on that. ONe is a fine leather. Two are rougher leathers. In general, the leather seems to be drying up at the ends.

Thanks!

They were common travel paddle/loom strops, similar one are still made today. At least one side is pasted to add keenness to a razor.

That one looks a bit rough and would probably need the leather replaced in order to use it. When left in the box they rot.

They come apart to de-rust and restore. Cost to restore may be more that it value. In that condition the value is not high, I see them often for 10-20 dollars.

If you are handy you can cut a new leather strop for it, but you want to remove the rust on the metal frame.

A good quality strop is invaluable for razor maintenance; it is the final polish before the edge touches your face.