Just what is a leather strop and why use one?
If you've ever watched an old-school barber prep a straight razor, you've probably wondered what is a leather strop and why they spend so much time rubbing a blade against a piece of cowhide. It looks a bit like a ritual, honestly. You see the blade gliding back and forth with that rhythmic shick-shick sound, and suddenly, that razor is sharp enough to split a hair in mid-air. But stropping isn't just for guys in vintage barbershops; it's a massive part of keeping any quality knife or woodworking tool in top shape. ...