Thread: SRD Premium 1 vs. SRD IV English Bridle

I have the English Bridal, extra long. Glad I got the longer strop. It replaces a 'normal' top grain strop I have been using for years and augments my antique Master Barber shell horse. It works very good.

I pasted one side of the webbing with 0.5 chrome ox and left the other clean. It took a few weeks to really break in but was darn close out of the box. They nylon strop had the most noticeable break in. I use it every day. I give most of my blades 10-15 passes on they fabric, then 40 on the bridal leather and 10-15 on the shell horse. The strop has more of a rejuvenating effect on the edge than most IMHO. It keeps sharp, sharper and longer.

The shell horse I have acts more as a polishing strop. I can actually see the difference on a large bevel wedge. They shave just fine off the bridal but since I have the shell strop I give them a few quick passes to final polish the steel. Keeps them near off the hone sharp.

I have no plans on replacing it anytime soon, although I may entertain a new shell horse strop if one becomes available. Forgot to mention, the draw on the bridal is all but perfect for me. Not slick but it will not pull the blade from your hand like some will. Beats the pants off latigo leather.

Originally Posted by cannonfodder

although I may entertain a new shell horse strop if one becomes available.

Will that be a TM horsehide ? or something else

No, a 70 year old Master Barber brand vintage shell horse barber strop from my father. It is as soft and supple as calf skin. They will last a life or two, or three, if you take care of them.