A strop is a simple yet highly effective tool used in the final stage of sharpening blades, including swords, knives, and other edged implements.
Typically made from a strip of leather—though modern versions can incorporate materials such as canvas or synthetic fibers—a strop serves to refine and polish the edge after the primary sharpening process. By drawing the blade along the strop’s surface, you remove microscopic burrs created during sharpening, resulting in a smoother and more razor-sharp edge.
In sword care, stropping is often the last step of the sharpening process. While whetstones or sharpening rods grind and shape the edge, a strop gently perfects it. This final polishing process improves the sword’s ability to slice effortlessly through targets and helps maintain the blade’s condition over time. Additionally, using a strop regularly can extend the intervals between more intensive sharpening, preserving the sword’s steel and overall structure.
