Thread: Red Imp ???

So this thread is a little premature, but...
Found a Red Imp 700c that appears to be in pretty good shape for $40 on Easy.
The premature part-I'm waiting on some close ups so no pics right now. I'll post them once I get them.

If it pans out and the pics show its in good shape; is it worth a little than half of what it would cost for a new craftsman strop from some of the vendors we talk about here.

Thanks for the help!

Oh, just an update on the deployment situation. Got word last week that I've been stood down (at least for now) so NO going to Iraq!!! Kind of a two edged sword. I had already got my mind in deployment mode so I was actually looking forward to going, but I hate leaving the wife and I HATE Iraq. When it comes down to it the wife wins every time!

Be safe,
Jer

I guess a proper answer and keeping within the boundries of the forum rules... is it worth 40 bucks to you? Sorry.

I adjusted the post to insure forum complience.

I'd say the price is fair. I'm just trying to decide to go vintage or go new from one of the craftsman out there.

I'd say wait on the close up pics. If it's in good condition and not too dried out go for it. But I'd never steer you away from going with a nice new strop

And glad to hear you'll be staying home safe with the wife

Those red Imp Strops are top of the line. For a factory made strop you can't get much better and they hold their own with any custom strop too.

Thanks for your service.

Red Imp was Certifyd's most expensive strop. I don't recall whether it is shell , or horsehide, one or the other. I've got one and wouldn't take $100 for it. My barber buddy, the late Joe Galipean, had one hanging on his chair at the barber shop on Midland Ave in Kearny, NJ. When I finally got one in great shape I was pleased as punch.

Unless it is all cut up & damaged bad I would go for it. Get some Ballistol to clean & treat the strop & you should be good to go. Just go to Ballistol.com & learn about this great product. I get mine at Gander Mountain. Many gun shops sell it also.
I would say you have a great possibility that the strop is Shell horsehide & to me that is the best strop material.
Thanks for your service brother!!

Slawman

My one concern is the guy said he has treated the leather with neatsfoot oil already. I understand it's a pain if you use to much oil. I don't use the stuff. I only have the one SRD strop and it's been good with just a palm rub and occasional wet wipe and dry for dust.

How bad is it if he was over zealous with the neatsfoot?

If it was “Over Oiled”, you will see oil on a razor when stropped, just a smear, or it will feel greasy.

Depending how long ago, it was oiled, it may still absorb the oil, it can take weeks or months. A light wipe with a damp paper towel, once a day, for a few days may add enough moisture, to drive the oil deeper into the leather.

But, in the worst case, wrap the strop in paper towels, put some weight on it and let it set for a day or two.

The towels will wick the oil. You can continue to wick until it is no-longer releasing oil.

In terms of price… I have paid much more for great vintage leather, have one in the mail, as a matter of fact…

I have used a red imp for several years. I will use it for the rest of my life.
its great.

I love it and I have owned a lot of the new stuff.