What Compounds Do You Guys Load Your Strops With?

[Coonskinner]

I made a strop years ago when I was just a kid, and I still have it and use it. But I never have used anything on it. I'm sure its effectiveness will go up greatly if I put some abrasive compound on it.

So what do you guys use, and where do you get it?

 

[Jimbo]

I use green buffing compound from Lee Valley Tools

"This honing compound, which took over two years to develop, is the most effective on the market.
It is primarily chromium oxide admixed with other fine abrasives (0.5 micron particle size) to give the best combination of cutting speed and fine finish. The bonding is formulated for ease of charging. It will adhere equally well to felt, leather, or wood.

Cuts quickly but leaves a mirror finish with a light wax film. Ideal for carving tools and firmer gouges, it can be used for final honing of almost any tool. Also used with a felt wheel or leather belt for power honing or with a leather strop for hand honing."

Actually it's best to have a couple of strops - one with the fine abrasive above - and 0.5 micron is fine but cuts fast, and one loaded with auto valve grinding coupound to work faster. Jeweler's rouge and Tripoli are too coarse and meant for non ferrous metals. If you can get the combination buffing compound kits from your hardware store - just use the green.

Remember to support the strop on a flat surface or glue to a piece of wood.

 

[Coonskinner]

Thanks, Jimbo. My strop is a piece of leather glued to a 1x4. I'll get some of the green stuff first chance I get.

Anybody else use something different?