Strop for beginners

R181

Grumpy old man
If you are just learning to strop, you will likely nick and/or slice the strop at some point. In most cases any damage to the strop can be repaired to keep it serviceable. I'd recommend buying a decent leather strop at a modest price. Save buying a top-of-the-line expensive strop for after you have your stropping technique down pat.

Bob
 

Twelvefret

Forum GOD!
I found a #50 Illinois on eBay when I started. Just don't get one that's been folded or that the leather has dried and cracked. I paid $25 circa 2018. I nicked mine until the muscle memory kicked in, but was able to sand down the nicks. Having a linen section is useful for drying the edge post use. Have fun.
 

Doti B

Forum GOD!
If you are just learning to strop, you will likely nick and/or slice the strop at some point. In most cases any damage to the strop can be repaired to keep it serviceable. I'd recommend buying a decent leather strop at a modest price. Save buying a top-of-the-line expensive strop for after you have your stropping technique down pat.

Bob
What would you deem as a modest price ?
Thsnks
 

Twelvefret

Forum GOD!
What would you deem as a modest price ?
Thsnks
If you can find a used one expect to pay $25 or more. I knew when I got into honing a straight I wanted to go slow and not end up with hundreds of dollars tied up in stones and such. I figured a vintage in good shape would be better than anything for $25 made today.

Also, if you get a linen section, make sure it’s clean and white, nothing greenish or red tint.

Just take your time and study the various options. This will ensure you get what you need at a reasonable price. I’m noticing several used strops on eBay. Just like anything leather, cracks and a dried out appearance aren’t going to produce a good result.
 

R181

Grumpy old man
If you can find a used one expect to pay $25 or more. I knew when I got into honing a straight I wanted to go slow and not end up with hundreds of dollars tied up in stones and such. I figured a vintage in good shape would be better than anything for $25 made today.

Also, if you get a linen section, make sure it’s clean and white, nothing greenish or red tint.

Just take your time and study the various options. This will ensure you get what you need at a reasonable price. I’m noticing several used strops on eBay. Just like anything leather, cracks and a dried out appearance aren’t going to produce a good result.
What he said.

Bob
 

hotmetal

Forum GOD!
You could try Billyji1 on ebay, I have a hanging strop and paddle strop from him, both decent quality and entry level price to my eyes. (£35 ish)

Or try John June at JJShaves who can probably sort you out with a Boaby G (Robert Gallagher) hanging strop for similar money I think. Worth a look, just to add to your options.
 

Doti B

Forum GOD!
You could try Billyji1 on ebay, I have a hanging strop and paddle strop from him, both decent quality and entry level price to my eyes. (£35 ish)

Or try John June at JJShaves who can probably sort you out with a Boaby G (Robert Gallagher) hanging strop for similar money I think. Worth a look, just to add to your options.
Just reached out to JJ Shaves so we’ll see how I get on
 

axeman556

Über Member

Tony Miller's website, he makes great strops , everything for the beginner to the seasoned pro. Give one a go you won't regret it
 

Doti B

Forum GOD!

Tony Miller's website, he makes great strops , everything for the beginner to the seasoned pro. Give one a go you won't regret it
Did reach out to Tony and he advised that postage costs to 🇬🇧 would be as much if not more than the strop itself hence looking for a provider in 🇬🇧 or EU
 
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