Thread: newbie strop question

Originally Posted by Convert

Going on 10 months with a problem.

Really? That's so unfortunate.

I never felt the need to strop after shaves. 40 linen and 80 leather before every shave, and I am happy with the results, and are many others.

New guy here with a new razor - i want to make sure i don't hurt either the razor or strop. i pull it tight but how hard should I push down n the razor?

Originally Posted by Bassmantweed

New guy here with a new razor - i want to make sure i don't hurt either the razor or strop. i pull it tight but how hard should I push down n the razor?

My strop deflects 1/2" - 1" at the center of the strop while stropping . Works for me.

Originally Posted by Bassmantweed

New guy here with a new razor - i want to make sure i don't hurt either the razor or strop. i pull it tight but how hard should I push down n the razor?

Hold the strop tight enough just to keep it taught. Hold the razor firmly but lightly on the strop and strop with long slow actions until you become more comfortable with it, then you can speed things up a bit.

Based on what I've read here, about all the pressure you want on the strop is the weight of the razor itself. I keep the strop really taut and let the blade glide across with the edge in light contact. Seems to work great. I think you generaly want less deflection, rather than more. If you haven't done so, you might check the beginner's guide in the Wiki.

I strop before and after I shave and it seems to work well. I also strop when I have some extra time just to get some practice. I pull my strop very tight and use no pressure at all.