Stropping

[T. Erdelyi]

Can any one give me a reason why lapping/valve grinding compound SHOULD NOT be used for stropping blades. I just received three nice pieces of leather 4"X12"X 3/16", I've mounted 1 piece on a hardwood base with a handle and have gotten some really nice hair popping results with the harder steels, ATS34, 154CM, VG 10, even Boyd's? dendritic? steel. I'm just curious as to whether or not I'm trashing some nice leather.

 

[Jimbo]

I've used carburundum paste very successfully, both on a regular strop and on leather belts used on a small belt grinder.
I am wondering whether you are are asking about the leather or the knives.
It's not very much effort to get a thrift store belt and try out the grits you have on some old or kitchen knives. Just make sure to use a flat counter top for support. When you find the correct grit size for your purposes, then go with your good strops. Reserve the best strop for use with good green buffing compound such as Lee Valley - to finish with.
A 16X lens to view your work and you are set.

 

[T. Erdelyi]

I was talking about the leather, sometimes it's hard to find really wide pieces. Thanks for the other advice tho.

 

[pahl]

Im working on making some strops also.
I just got a piece 12x12 inch pressed leather from a tandy leather store today. Paid $10 for it. Then I was in a sears store nexted and the wife pointed out these leather weight lifting belts, same type of leather I just bought. They were very wide. I would say 4-5 inchs wide. The belts were $9.99 and there looked to be more leather there then the 12x12 inch piece i just bought.

I also got some white rouge well I was in sears to try on the strop.
Anyone else use white rouge on strops? Will it work ok?


pahl