Review on Fromm IRS827 Razor Strop 23 by Tammy Finucci

In case you don't already know, the working surface of this particular sling model is flesh side out. The top grain side is heavily ribbed and almost unusable, having been crushed by the rollers they used to compress the fleshy side and improve its strength. It is believed to be modeled on ancient Russian slings that used the flesh side to improve drag and reduce the number of passes for the same effect. (A little initial breaking-in is required for best results.) When I bought this due to an accidental price drop notice, I didn't realize it had a special design and didn't know why. I was ready to be disappointed, but my god. Once you break it, this thing will raaaaaa! I swear that 15 passes (on either side of the blade) with my full hollow razor on this thing equates to at least 50 passes on the natural oxhide paddle strap I've used for the past few years. It is great. And while I've never kinked a line before, the benefit of this design is that you don't have to worry about kinking the top fiber as it's 100% pulp covered. And any light to moderate nicks can be sanded down if needed. Ideal first sling for beginners.