Thread: Kanayama strops difference?

Gentlemen,

Could someone with knowledge of Kanayama strops explain the difference between a Kanayama 30K, 50K, 60K, 70K and finally 80 and 90K.

I understand the higher end tend to be thicker but the leather feel is the same. If so, would a thicker strop make a difference to the edge or how smooth it feels afterwards?

You pay for the length and thickness and the addition of a suede part in the higher end models. Otherwise the performance is exactly the same. I have a 90K and a 3K and quality wise they are exactly the same.

Originally Posted by thebigspendur

You pay for the length and thickness and the addition of a suede part in the higher end models. Otherwise the performance is exactly the same. I have a 90K and a 3K and quality wise they are exactly the same.

Would you say length and thickness make a difference?

Put it this way...

I have the number 3 strop, which I believe is the bottom of the barrel version. It is an awesome strop!!!

Its length and thickness is just fine. It is a standard length for a strop and is of average thickness.

Originally Posted by Utopian

Put it this way...

I have the number 3 strop, which I believe is the bottom of the barrel version. It is an awesome strop!!!

Its length and thickness is just fine. It is a standard length for a strop and is of average thickness.

That's what I wanted to hear.

Thank you!!!

Gentlemen,

I have had the 70000 and the 80000, now only the 30000, and have loved all. The feel of the leather on all is the same to me. The only thing the 30000 lacks is the suede component, as I don't like the linen. What's more, since I am not enamored by long strops, the 30000 is ideal. Regardless of these differences, I think the Kanayama strops are an absolute joy to use.

Originally Posted by Str8Up

Would you say length and thickness make a difference?

Personally I don't like the longer strop (90,000). I sold mine because of it and got a standard length 80,000. Reason, all risers on stairs are a standard height. That is why we can go up and down steps without thinking about it. If you only use one strop, and it is a longer than normal length, it won't matter. OTOH, if you are a normal SRP member, and have a dozen strops, it is better if they are all the same length ........ IMHO ..........

I don't own a Kanayama strop, but I remember reading in multiple places that the #3 uses cordovan with inconsistent thickness (hence it's bargain price), whereas all the 5-digit strops (30,000; 70,000; etc.) have consistent thickness. Perhaps Kanayama owners can confirm this for us.

Originally Posted by vileru

I don't own a Kanayama strop, but I remember reading in multiple places that the #3 uses cordovan with inconsistent thickness (hence it's bargain price), whereas all the 5-digit strops (30,000; 70,000; etc.) have consistent thickness. Perhaps Kanayama owners can confirm this for us.

I have never tried the No. 3, but the 30000 is a sweet strop, with just the right length, and the only thing it lacks is the suede component. Good stuff.

Originally Posted by vileru

I don't own a Kanayama strop, but I remember reading in multiple places that the #3 uses cordovan with inconsistent thickness (hence it's bargain price), whereas all the 5-digit strops (30,000; 70,000; etc.) have consistent thickness. Perhaps Kanayama owners can confirm this for us.

If by 'inconsistent thickness' it is meant that the strop is not the same thickness from one end to the other I have a hard time believing that. If it is meant that it is not the same thickness as the rest of their offerings that would make more sense ....... to me ......

It is worth noting that amongst the vintage, and current production, strops that I have, the thickness varies. One of my best strops is an very old Koken shell which is extremely thin. Alongside of it is a C-Mon 4 times as thick, and a Red Imp that is in between the two. All great strops. I tend to prefer thin strops 2&1/2" wide, but YMMV.