02-10-2023, 08:50 AM
#1
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I’ve come into a couple of vintage straight razors that I have sent out to be sharpened. I need to get a strop. It looks like a paddle strop will be the most convenient. Any thoughts on paddle strops?

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 02-11-2023, 07:22 PM
#2
  • chazt
  • Super Moderator
  • Queens, NY
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Sorry, I can’t help at all, but a bump to the top can’t hurt…

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 02-12-2023, 07:36 PM
#3
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Most straight razor shavers use a hanging strop, and back in the day barbers had a hanging strop attached to their chairs.  I recommend a 3" hanging strop.  I'm not aware of any paddle strop available today which is wide or long enough for optimal use.

Why do you feel a paddle strop is more convenient?

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 02-12-2023, 08:41 PM
#4
  • norton
  • Active Member
  • The Alien Nation
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You asked for thoughts:

Some folks like them for travel - the Superior Shave and Classic Shaving are the only places I know of that currently sells them.

Why you might want one -
1. no need to hang it.  I just use a hanger and the closet bar, but others may prefer a more elegant solution.
2. They're slightly less expensive (depending on choices) than similar hanging options - but there's a reason for this. 

Why you might not:
1. less leather and stropping surface.  Paddle strops are generally shorter, and more narrow than hanging.
2. somewhat limiting - you get 2 sides. On hanging strops you usually get 4.  These 'other' sides are handy for sharpening paste if you are inclined to use it.

Mine is a Tony Miller hanging strop (now called Heirloom Strop Co.). 
Check them out for a reasonably priced beginner's hanging strop if you go that way. I like the 'D' rings, others prefer handles.  
Another option for a 'first' strop is whipped dog razors.  They sell a very inexpensive, no-frills 3" hanging strop that you won't feel too bad about messing up.

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 02-13-2023, 06:49 AM
#5
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I decided on a hanging strop and got a fairly inexpensive one. Thanks for the information.

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 02-13-2023, 07:16 AM
#6
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It's best to start with an inexpensive one because unintentional nicks and cuts on the leather are part of learning how to strop.

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 02-13-2023, 07:36 AM
#7
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(02-13-2023, 07:16 AM)TheLegalRazor Wrote: It's best to start with an inexpensive one because unintentional nicks and cuts on the leather are part of learning how to strop.
+100

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