maybe that should belong to the beginners section...
What are the mistakes I can make trying to buy my first cheap-o strop?
something like this Green River Leather Cowhide Razor Strop, American Made, 24" x 2" - Knifecenter.com
i know that 2" will force me to use the X pattern. but I can't say anything about leather grain buying online! and everyone here seems to buy online.
What exactly do you compare when shopping?