I just ordered one hard black Arkansas 4x1 5/8 and one translucent (same dimensions) pocket stones from Dan's Whetstones. I've watched several YouTube vids and read several threads here. I'm excited to try them, but I've got a couple questions.

1. I've read some people take wet/dry high grit sandpaper (1k, higher) to smoothe them out. Is this necessary? Sales person I spoke to said it wasn't; they are lapped and guaranteed flat. Some say they need a breaking in, hence the sandpaper. I informed sales rep the stones would be used for straight razors.

2. I've read Arkansas stones will tear up a diamond lapping plate. I've got the Shapton glass lapping plate. Please opine.

3. Will a regular Norton lapping plate work on these stones?

4. So I use J&J baby oil to protect my razors. These stones use mineral oil to hone. I've read some use Neetsfoot oil. Any reason baby oil can't / shouldn't be used? Neetsfoot?

As a truck driver on the road I think these stones will make a great addition to my road bag.