The strop is needed to maintain the blade edge for shaving. The strop should be used prior to shaving, and never- under any circumstance- after shaving. This is because after shaving the delicate cutting edge is kind of bent (not visible to the naked eye), and you would break tiny metal pieces out of the cutting edge. This would consequently lead to cuts in the skin. Many refer to this condition as a burr from misaligned micro-separations that occur when the razor is used, but will go back into position and become fine again after approx. 24 to 30 hours. Stropping just before use will further align the blade edge and put it in shave ready condition. In order to get the best daily shave with a straight razor DOVO even suggests an individual even consider having at least two straight razors on hand to fully allow time for the blade edge to rest between shaves for optimal performance. Read more about strop use and care.

The hone: Once or twice a year, or as needed, you will want to hone the blade or use strop paste as the blade becomes dull and needs to be sharpened. See the strop use and care information or other resources about using a strop or hone to maintain a sharp razor's edge. Should the razor get damaged by falling to the ground, or when closing, it shouldn't be used any longer (for danger of cutting yourself). Sharpening a damaged blade will do no good in that case, and only regrinding by an expert can solve the problem.