Thread: Kanayama strops difference?

Originally Posted by Shyster512

I have the 90000 Kanayama which I've used for two years. It's a great strop and I've never felt anything quite as smooth as it is. Nothing but positive review for the Kanayama from me. However, I purchased a Livi Loom about a month ago, and I don't think I can go back to the strop. My edges are sharper and the shave smoother on the Loom. Now I don't profess to be an expert in using a strop, so it might be the Livi makes the stroke requirement easier, and I do take my time in using each stroke (although the process is quicker for me on the Loom). This is just my experience; each user may have different results.

Thanks for your thoughts.


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Originally Posted by Dieseld

The suede is a nice step in the stropping progression in my opinion

I agree 100%

Originally Posted by ShaveAndTravel

I visited Tokyo a month ago and brought two strops straight from Naomi-san's hands (Kanayama-maker), #30000 and #80000. Externally, the strops are very similar in thickness, flexibility, gloss, slipperiness. I'm a beginner, without the labeling most likely would not distinguish the strops)))

Welcome to SRP. I have an old 80,000 and Kanayama are indeed great strops. Very cool to meet the man in person. Now you have fond memories as well as a pair of great strops.

Yes, it was an unforgettable meeting. My daughter helped me a lot, she found the right address and translated from Japanese. Naomi-san was very hospitable and friendly to the unexpected visitors)))

Super cool!!!!

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Outstanding. It seems I am not the only one who appreciates the genuine artsanship of Kanayama strops. It must have been a thrill to meet Naomi-san. The nay sayers don't get it about these strops, it's not only about the edge, it's the process and the enjoyment you get out of it. Strop on my friend.

Originally Posted by bobski

The nay sayers don't get it about these strops

So who is a 'Nay Sayer'? Do you 'get' something others do not?

Most everyone here has at least one strop from Kanoyama.

Whether they know it or not.
They have been produced with various names on them for 50+ years.
Not so exclusive. Pretty common, actually. I have heard no negative comments on these strops, save a few on the fabric as of late.
I think everyone will agree the leather is nice. It needs no introduction, AFAIK.

Oh yes! Strop on, indeed!

Yes I have to pile on to that also, I've looked back over hundreds of Kanayama posts, no one bad word, the liven is not as highly regarded but the leather has never been talked down by anyone with an IQ over his boot size. Tc

I have to agree about the linen, or probably better called canvas. If you look at it, it's 65mm wide as opposed to the leather which is 68mm and when you open the box the canvas piece is wrapped in plastic which is embossed in 'Red Imp' livery, including the made in America notation. It's true it takes some work to get it to a state where you could say it does it's job. So, the actual origin of the canvas appears to be America, and perhaps is added to the rest of the strop which is made in Japan. Either way it is what it is and lots of folk get by with it.

I own 2 Kanayama 80000 strops, I also own several other very well known brands no names mentioned, my own personal preference would be the Kanayama.