Strop length question, and Illinois 361 question

On strops with handles, does the length include the handle? So for example, does an Illinois 827 measure 23" to the end of the stropping surface or to the end of the handle?

Also, why does the Illinois 361 cost more than the russian leather 827 or the 127 which is also described as "top grain cowhide," both of which have handles? I would think a strop without a handle would be cheaper.

On the 827 and the 127 the 23" length is the overall length, handles included. The actual stropping surface is probably around 17" or so.

On the 361 you are paying for a full 24" of good, strop worthy leather. On the other strop the actual length of the good leather is much shorter and the handles are from a thinner, less expensive leather. Even with the sewing labor included it is the good leather that sets the price as only so many good, wrinkle free pieces can be cut from a hide. The longer, or wider they are the less the yield.

Of the two, the 827 or the 361, I feel the 361 is a far better strop but a bit harder to hold.

Tony