Thread: Should I lap or not?

Originally Posted by BobH

I am guessing that lapping a narrow hone doesn't make much difference as you are using an X stroke anyway? Can anyone verify that in case I do get such a narrow hone?

Bob

I have found no problem in doing consistent half-strokes on a 1.5" (~4cm) wide hone, which is quite a common size. After a bit of practice, I am able to do consistent half-strokes on a 1.5 cm wide coticule.

I am afraid I'm not following your logic. If there is a need for a 100% flat hone, why would the type of stroke have any influence on that need?

Originally Posted by kcb5150

You have the box anyway, so just take a pic and lap it to true... Stones like that are worth top dollar because they are top quality stones, not because they are stamped

I don't want to say anything negative, but no. These hones are worth top dollar to certain buyers exactly because they are stamped with a (subjective) qualification from X years ago by lord knows who. And if it's such a good stone, why keep the box or take pictures? Why do they matter so much then, if they are inconsequential in determining the price these hones go for? It is why Eschers with labels fetch much more than Thuringians without label or box, even when they are recognisable as Thuringians. I don't know what the OP's hone cost and nor do I care, but I'll venture a wild guess and say that, without the stamp or box, that hone would have gone for a fair bit less money.

I'm not criticising you here Frankenstein, I'm sure it will be a fine hone and you spent what you were willing to spend.