stropping

Stropping is a finishing technique used to realign and polish the edge of a blade by drawing it along a leather strap known as a strop. The primary purpose is to remove micro-burrs and realign microscopic edge facets after honing, thereby restoring a smooth cutting surface and improving performance in shaving or cutting tasks. Stropping does not remove material to any significant extent; instead it refines the edge and polishes it.

Strops are typically made of leather, often cowhide or horsehide, and may be mounted on a rigid backing or used as a handheld strap. Many strops incorporate a fabric layer, such as linen or canvas, on the back to provide a different finish. Some strops are treated with polishing compounds applied to the leather, including fine grits of chromium oxide (green) or rouge (red) to enhance the polishing action.

Process and technique: After honing, the blade is laid on the strop at a shallow angle and drawn along the length of the strap with light, controlled pressure. The edge should stay in contact with the leather, and strokes are made in alternating directions on each side of the blade. Practitioners typically perform a series of strokes on one side, then switch to the other edge, finishing with a few light passes to refine the edge further. The exact angle and number of passes vary by blade type and user preference.

Maintenance and safety: Keep the strop clean and dry; wipe away any compound residue and avoid oils that degrade the leather. Replace the strop when it becomes worn or compressed. Stropping is commonly used in conjunction with honing as part of a broader edge-refreshing routine for straight razors and other bladed tools.