Thread: Paddle Strop Question

I have a SRD 3" Premium IV hanging strop and a SRD two-sided paddle strop. Due to severe arthritis, I have found that I can get much better results using the paddle strop. It allows me to place it on a table and sit to do my stropping. I find holding the hanging strop difficult because most of the cartilage in my finger joints has been eaten away by arthritis, leaving bone on bone.

Am I shortchanging myself? For you experienced stroppers, is it possible to get top-notch results using a paddle strop rather than a hanging strop?

Thanks for your advice!

I have both and seem to get the same results. I also find that I'm less likely to scew up my paddle stop than my hanging.

The is no reason you can't get the exact same result. I have a bench strop I use often and basically it's just a big paddle. It's just a matter of using a different technique. You especially have to take care you don't strike the table the strop is lying on.

DLB,

I have used paddle strops exlusively for the last 18 months or so for my day to day stropping needs

I currently use Mr Neil Millers modular aluminium paddle.

Have fun !

Best regards

Russ

I dont think you're short changing yourself at all, and in terms of results, I do believe they would be very close. I'm sure you'll have to retrain a few muscles or stand/sit in a different position, but the outcome should be much the same.

I have three strops: the SRD Bridle leather, an Illinois 127 and my SRD Modular Paddle Strop. I use the linen side of the 127 from time to time, but for 99% of my stropping, it's the SRD Paddle. I've seen no difference in my edges. In fact, because using the paddle is so easy, and because it is more stable, they may even be getting better.

I use my paddle strop a lot and it works just the same as the hanging strop.
You can get same results either way, so do what works best for you.

I have several paddles, Personally, I prefer them for pastes, but I will use a plain leather paddle after a honing session. I like them, and there's no reason you can't use them in lieu of a hanging strop. It's really personal preference.

Enjoy !

Hi DLB...

I have a 3" strop as well. I use it as a table top strop most of the time anyway. I lay it across my headboard and strop away. I find I have a lot more control and it's easier to just slow down and know that I'm getting results. I strop both the linen and leather the same way. I don't use any paste or spray so the wife allows me to strop on the headboard. I really stunk at using a hanging strop, so I'm content not using it that way. I wish I had a decent 'paddle' strop, but this seems to be working out pretty good for me. I like the edge, I stopped cutting my strop so often and I don't work my joints so hard. I'm able to do a lot more passes without fatique or pain laying it down.

Just my 2 cents my friend!!

Mike

Originally Posted by DLB

I have a SRD 3" Premium IV hanging strop and a SRD two-sided paddle strop. Due to severe arthritis, I have found that I can get much better results using the paddle strop. It allows me to place it on a table and sit to do my stropping. I find holding the hanging strop difficult because most of the cartilage in my finger joints has been eaten away by arthritis, leaving bone on bone.

Am I shortchanging myself? For you experienced stroppers, is it possible to get top-notch results using a paddle strop rather than a hanging strop?

Thanks for your advice!

I have exclusively used a paddle strop from day one. My reasoning is that my stones are flat, why not ensure that my strop is straight and "flat".