Illinios Razor Strop #9264

I just picked up an Illinois Razor Strop #9264 at a flea market. On the top it says Warranted Finest Quality Genuine Shell. The strop itself is very supple and in great condition. The second component which seamed to be used quite a bit, was loaded with a waxy feeling substance and the other side seamed to something on it but was not waxy feeling. This component is also tubular and flattened.

Now, I wiped the strop with just a slightly damp cloth, let it for a little bit and then gave it a good hand rubbing with just the oils on my hand and took my Genco Masterbarber for 40 laps. I have to say that this doesn't feel like any other of my horsehide strops. The draw was very nice(I would say medium, maybe slightly lighter).

Does anyone know more about this strop? When did they stop production? Does anyone have one of these and if so what are your experiences with it?

Thank you
Phil

A quick Google of your strop shows it doesn't appear to be made any longer. As to it's age, I have no idea. I'm guessing the "linen" side is woven cotton in a tube shape. No clue as to what you describe as "waxy." It could be some type of dressing. I'd say you got lucky, real lucky.

There's a good discussion of shell strops (and a place to buy them new) at The Superior Shave's Strops page. Scroll down a bit; he writes a lot but it's pretty good. As GeauxLSU says, it's a lucky find for you.

I also agree about the linen (?) side. The nonwaxy side might have been chalked; I don't know about the waxy stuff. Search the threads for "strop cleaning" or "linen strop cleaning" and you'll probably find that someone found a way to clean it up.

Good luck and best wishes.

A couple quick pics as I clean the woven component.

http://i522.photobucket.com/albums/w...P8140256a1.jpg

http://i522.photobucket.com/albums/w...P8140252a1.jpg