Thread: Needing a first strop.. Any suggestions?

Hey everybody, I am just getting into strait razor shaving. I have a good razor, but I haven't started shaving with it yet. I need a strop. I'm looking for something good but won't break the bank.

Also should I get a linen and leather strop?

I also do leatherwork. Mostly tooling leather, I was wondering if I were to make a strop, what would be a good leather to use.

Another question goes back to making a strop. Any input on making a paddle strop?

Thanks

I still use the only strop I have ever owned: a Miller Latigo heirloom. It has been fantastic, but my one regret is that I only got the leather and did not get the linen at the same time. So if it is within budget, I'd say go for both leather & linen.

But if you have the leatherworking skills, I see no reason why you shouldn't at least have a go at making your own.

Do some searches for "how to make a strop" and how to make a paddle strop" you should find a lot of info on making a strop.

As to good low cost strops an illinois strop is good can be found on amazon.

That miller Latigo looks like a really good strop.

As far as making a strop I have a lot of black veg tanned leather I believe 5/6oz hide. I'm wondering if this would make a good strop. It seems most strops are more like a 8/9 oz.

I am wondering how it woukd work If I were to try to glue this leather to a wooden paddle. And if I did do that what material could I use for a linen side?

I use a SRD 2" Latigo / Premium Fabric strop. I find the 2" was a lot easier to use than the 3" I bought first. I guess bigger isn't always better..! I find I have more control with the 2" especially when stropping my 8/8 W&B. My .02