Thread: Odd question about strops

The rough side can work quite well actually depending on the roughness and how it is used. The Illinois 827 for example, their Russian strop is actually the reverse, flesh side of the hide.

I enjoy using a fairly 'tame" rough/flesh side leather as it gives and increased draw which I prefer for heavier razors and even my knives. A slightly rougher flesh side may be good as a preliminary strop before going to a smoother one and some guys use a progression of strops ever time before shaving. of course the rough side can also be handy pasted in more of a honing mode. I have used both veg tanned rough sides as well as waxed/oiled bridle type rough sides with good results.

Tony