Thread: Why do they recommend using the Strop after shaving and before shaving?

Originally Posted by wildfirejoe00

Sharptonn: Well said. I am under no illusion that I know more than Neil about anything, paticularly this subject. I am not an "expert" in anything. This thread turned vitriolic when I asked a sincere question about "resting" the edge. I wasn't giving advice, I asked a question after recalling an article that I had read a while back written by a metallurgist concerning "his" findings on "resting" the edge. Then the childish insults started about "resting" the edge, putting th razor to bed, etc.. I apoligize for my part in the negativity posted here, I just hope that a new member to this site posting his first question with trepidation of asking a "dumb question" never gets a reception like this. Again my apologies, particularly to Neil.

No worries, Joe. It seems a somewhat controversial subject which comes up on occasion, sort of like honing with tape!

It has been 'proven' and debunked many times here. If you go to the search box on top right of the forum home page and type in 'resting the blade before stropping' there is a plethora of threads on the subject and some neat historical claims and articles on the subject submitted by members. I have actually read through some this morning. Like this thread, quite amusing!
FME and that of many others here, it just does not matter much.

Whatever works for you is what works. Proper stropping is key to lasting edges and good shaves, we all know that. Even a wide range of laps on fabric/leather are also discussed.

To be quite honest, I will admit I 'rest' my edges. As I strop and shave, wipe the edge and strop it off on a dry towel, and let it sit, blade open, till my next shave whereupon I strop it first, putting it away, and strop my current shaver before I shave again.
My reason for this is not to allow molecules to regroup. I shave in the morning and must be off to work. One stropping session of my previous razor and current one seems quite enough. I also will strop directly after the shave if I am not in a rush. Does not seem to matter one bit, FME.

You shall see as you search the subject, it is beaten to death. In fact, as you search just about ANY subject, you will find too much info, some controversial, some quite informative.
In a nutshell, searching and reading will show you much on the subject and clue you in on things to ask of and some to let lie. So to speak!

By all means ask questions and involve yourself in discussions. Also keep in mind that crotchity old Neil would not steer you wrong!