strop troubles

Hello gents,

Just to set this up, I have a "DOVO Prima Rindleder" strop. See link for details.
DOVO Prima Rindleder Strop Two Side

Its fairly new. Im not sure if its 'broken in', or even if it needs it.

The issue im having is that I feel the whole razor edge is not in contact with the leather during each stroke.

If i drag the razor (spine only) across the strop you can easily see the change in color, like you would see on a short cut suede material, quite consistent.

Now when i strop properly, that 'suede changing' effect is lost and the strop only partially changes color/texture and seem quite obvious that the blades edge is not in contact the whole time. Generally speaking its more towards the edges and less in the center.

Granted when I did it spine only, i added more pressure...

I've tried bending the leather (3mm thick) so that the center has more contact and it works to some degree. Id appreciate any tips or advise.

Other info:
Strop has lived its life hanging.
Width is 4.5cm and requires an X pattern for my razors.
Never been abused or in a humid environment.

Cheers

I had the slightly longer version for my first strop and I found the X stroke ensured the blade made good contact.

If you think the strop is cupped slightly or needs some treatment, have a look at this article from the Wiki: Strop treatment and repair - Straight Razor Place Wiki

You'll hopefully find that the glass bottle trick helps break the strop in and solves your problem! I've found that this works very well with my strops.

Good luck and keep us posted!