Ask Aaron Q/A: Which is better & easier - A hanging strop or a hand strop?

November 23, 2011 · Posted in Ask Aaron Q & A, Straight Razor Shaving · Comment 

ask aaron 420 Ask Aaron Q/A: Which is better & easier   A hanging strop or a hand strop?

Antonio GarcĂ­a Palomo, from Spain, asks:

“I’m going to get a strop (fan of wet shaving but using safety razor so far). My only doubt is a hanging or a hand strop. Awaiting for your advice.”

Dual Leather Hand Strop

AARON SAYS

“Mr. Palomo, Honestly I use a safety razor most of the time, however I do keep in touch and read about what happens with the straight razor world. Both strops have their place, but from what I understand the hanging strop will be more suitable to the needs of a beginning straight razor user. That would be the one I would recommend.

Smooth Shaving!
Aaron”

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Ask Aaron Q/A: How to sharpen a straight razor for shaving

May 10, 2011 · Posted in Ask Aaron Q & A, Shaving Tips, Straight Razor Shaving · Comment 

ask aaron 420 Ask Aaron Q/A: How to sharpen a straight razor for shaving

Philippa Lynch, from the UK, asks:

“Hi, Aaron, I bought a straight razor and a strop for my husband for Christmas - it is now clear that he needs more bits in order to sharpen the blade etc. Can you give me a list of essentials that I should have got then and could get now? Many thanks, Philippa”

Cyril Salter Solingen 5/8 Open Razor Round Point

AARON SAYS

“Mrs. Lynch,

A shaving guru I may be, but you have found my weakness. Straight razor sharpening is not something I am full of knowledge on, but I will assist you and give you as much as I know. You mentioned bits and I do not recommend any type of hand held mechanical tool bit for sharpening a straight razor. This is too dangerous and can cause damage to you or the blade or your equipment. You husband will need two, possible three stones, plus a paddle and strop. The stones should be sharpening stones anyhwere from 8 to 12k grit, even as high as 15. A natural coticule will work as well for the last step. The paddle should be covered in canvas and the canvas should have CrOx (Chromium Oxide) impregnated into the canvas.

If this seems like too much of an investment, I highly recommend seeking out a barber or someone known for the razor honing skills to do the work for you. A good razor shouldn’t need but honing perhaps once a quarter. I hope this helps on recommendations for what your husband needs! Feel free to get back in touch with us if you need any more help!

Smooth Shaving!
Aaron”

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