Thread: Stropping technique question

If I may add: Sound wise, only a few razors will sing on the strop (I think 3 of mine sing and that is it). And if all of your razors sing, it is likely and indication that the spine is coming off the strop, and the singing is the free vibration of the blade itself on the leather. Eeek!

So likely, you dont want to hear the blade sing, and that could be an indication of a bad thing!

Rather than exert more pressure, I have found making the strop just a tiny bit more slack helps. The current pressure of the blade presses into the strop material a little bit more and gives just a bit more polishing angle. I also find I tend on the "return stroke" (coming back toward me) I can lose contact with the edge or get just a bit less. The very slightly more slack strop helped on that too.

Originally Posted by Humpglide

Wow, thanks for all the advise, it will all be useful. I know it's going to take some time but it also helps by getting some advise.

'Glide, I'm here to say that not everyone gets stropping quickly. I sucked at it, destroying 5 strops in the process. It will definitely come. You could probably speed up the learning curve by getting w/ a nearby experienced shaver - if there's one nearby. Should your travels bring you near Portland, OR - hollar & come over for some time & try some gear.

Its also common to DULL your edge w/ your early stropping. If your edge needs refreshing, let me know. I or others would likely be glad to refresh the edge - just pick up postage to get it back to you.

'Sounds to me like you're doing alright & will have it down pretty soon. Enjoy the learning & the great shaves. In all likelihood - even the so-so shaves will be at least as good as your former method - but will last longer.

-That's a neat shot of the Hyacinth for your avatar. They're really sweet.

I do better if I strop left to right instead and I lay the strop flat on my dresser. My strop is leather and about 3 1/2 inches wide, this is so I can get the whole blade on it. But my question is how fast do you go? and how many times to refresh the edge? I can't go very fast right now because my hands aren't in good shape, during the winter the weather changes (warm during the day, cold at night) wreck havoc on the joints in my fingers and thumbs.