Dumb question: How to properly use a Filly...

[Synack]

Well, I just ordered a Filly strop (first strop!) but have an odd question:

It doesn't have any kind of handle built in. What would be the proper way to use it? Just pull from the bottom (wouldn't that really discolor/put too much skin oil in over time?) Or should I just lay it flat on a counter?

Thanks!

 

[crankymoose]

just pull it taught, and to condition the leather and to resolve any worries you may have of it fading unevenly at bottom before each use wipe your palms up and down the entire strop so the oil from your hands gets absorbed by the strop which will also keep it nice and supple, the leather may change color after a long period of use but it shouldn't be much and won't hurt anything

 

[thanks]

I use mainly my thumb on the top side of the leather to hold the strop taut as this way I hold it from the center and don't cause it to fold anywhere. I've never gotten my razor anywhere near my thumb while stropping so I could care less if the bottom few inches are fine or not.

 

[O'Gan]

I'm still new to this, but I've actually found with my TM Barber's Friend strop, it's more comfortable to hold the strop with thumb and forefinger, even though there is a handle. It also seems to lay flatter for me when I do this.
And there's nothing better than leather that builds character over the years from good use.

 

[Bertilak]

I hold it between thumb (on top) and the forefinger below. The strop rests on the forefinger.

With that grip I roll my hand so that the part I am holding turns downward. This helps keep the strop flat as it is partially rolled over the forefinger much like it was over a wooden dowel. It also keeps the thumb out of the way of any stray blade movement, although that doesn't really seem necessary.

 

[Synack]

I hold it between thumb (on top) and the forefinger below. The strop rests on the forefinger.

With that grip I roll my hand so that the part I am holding turns downward. This helps keep the strop flat as it is partially rolled over the forefinger much like it was over a wooden dowel. It also keeps the thumb out of the way of any stray blade movement, although that doesn't really seem necessary.

Actually, I found myself doing it the same exact way. I am definitely glad that I started with this strop (already a few minor nicks toward the bottom on the edges .) It does seem to be great for practicing and building technique.

 

[Bertilak]

Actually, I found myself doing it the same exact way. I am definitely glad that I started with this strop (already a few minor nicks toward the bottom on the edges .) It does seem to be great for practicing and building technique.

And it's a really nice strop too. I bought a fancier strop and after using it for a while went back to the Filly even though I had mauled it pretty badly. There was still enough pristine area in the middle to put to good use. RupRazor has another strop, El Toro, made from the same leather but with a swivel hook, D-ring handles and a fabric secondary strop which is now my every-day strop.