Thread: Jeans make good strops

Originally Posted by FacialDirt

Is it necessary to use a cloth/ linnen strop in addition to the leather one?

I don't believe so. Some people feel that it improves the edge, I have never noticed a difference. YMMV.

IMO (which is backed up by an antique barber manual I read) the cloth component is on antique strops as a sacrificial cleaning component to prevent a build-up of soap and gunk on the expensive leather side. You have to remember, a lot of homes and barber shops in the old days did not have hot running water.

As long as your razor is kept clean and dry I dont think you will miss it.

I mainly use mine If I am stropping with pastes to make 100% sure none of them end up on my leather. Also some people report an improvement stropping with cloth after honing with coticules. I'm still experimenting there...

The cloth component often has some pretty powerful effect. It can make the razor feels smoother, for sure. Not really required, but if you are new to honing you will probably notice some improvement.

I appreciate the advice, gentlemen. Definately a noob to honing. In fact, I'm still looking for my first set of hones.