Sharpening Stones Comparison

Water Stones     

Advantages

1. Quick aggressive cut

2. Wide range of grits

3. Fine grits offer superior finishing & polishing

Disadvantages

1. Wear quickly

2. Must be flattened often

3. Can be damaged by tool edge

4. Requires a slurry to use

5. Water can cause rust

Oilstones

Advantages

1. No slurry required

2. Relatively inexpensive

3. Does not cause rust

4. Available in a variety of sizes & grits

Disadvantages

1. Oil can cross contaminate wood

2. Coarse stones wear quickly

3. Requires flattening

Ceramic Stones

Advantages

1. Do not require flattening as often as other stones

2. Available in very fine grits

3. Very wear resistant

Disadvantages

1. Very fragile

2. Will clog without lubricant

Diamond Stones

Advantages

1. Cuts very fast

2. Very durable & wear resistant

3. Stays flat and used to flatten other stones

4. Can be used without lubricant

Disadvantages

1. Must adjust sharpening methods (light strokes)

2. No polishing grits

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