Thread: Beginner Strop

Originally Posted by mkbolivianwonder

Hi guys,
I'm in the market for my first strop, and I'm planning on getting one from TM. He's got some dark bridle and light steerhide, the bridle can be up to 2 1/2" and the steerhide up to 3". I'll also be getting one of his practice strops. Just looking for some guidance, suggestions, advice, etc. What would you have preferred to start out with, what is your preferred leather and width, etc? I've been digging around in the forums and I've found a lot of differing preferences, and I'm sure anything I get from Tony is going to be great, but I'd just like to know which way the winds of SRP wisdom would blow.

Sounds like you already are pointed in the right direction. A practice strop along with a better quality strop is a good idea. Honestly, I'd say yank a seat belt out of a junked car to develop your technique. They tend to be 2" wide. Grab a hold of a less than premium razor and go to town on it. Get those mistakes out of the way before your first few accidental bad strokes cut into those nice new strops. The horror of slicing your strop is lessened when it's just junk that you aren't too attached to.

Rhythm and consistency are key.

I like the idea of a practice strop. I believe someone already mentioned the possibility of you cutting it. That's what I always think about when it's someone new. As far as preferences, Only you'll know once you become proficient. You may like more draw, you may like less draw. Narrow or wide. It's hard to say. I'm not big fan of heavy draw. I like Horsehide, and the Steerhide you mentioned. Good luck.

Originally Posted by Kenrup

One thing to keep in mind you will cut your first strop. I agree with the suggestion to get a smaller strop, build your technique then graduate to a nicer strop.

Totally agree - do not learn on an expensive strop.
Buy an inexpensive, imported strop or an inexpensive, vintage strop on ebay.
Once you can work it without taking biting/nicking it, then get the strop of your dreams.