Thread: Do I get the 8 in DMT?

I lap with a 6 inch dmt. I am very careful and get good results but have had in my mind to get a larger dmt stone thinking that I would get better results. Is it worth doing or should I save my money for something else. I use a shapton for final hone and norton water stone for the rough stuff.
Mike

I think the answer depends on how much lapping you're going to do. I think since you mentioned you're already careful when you lap, I don't think you'll get better results with the larger DMT. The only advantage I see to having the larger DMT is for convenience, i.e. lapping would be faster and easier. Oh, and it's fun to have more toys, but I shouldn't encourage the addiction!

. The only advantage I see to having the larger DMT is for convenience, i.e. lapping would be faster and easier. Oh, and it's fun to have more toys, but I shouldn't encourage the addiction![/quote]


Must get new stone...Must get new stone.

I also have the large flatting stone that comes with the norton stones but the diamond is faster and leaves a more consistant finish. The only thing that I don't like about the small DMT is that the holes leave a slight pattern on the water stones. If I do get another one I will get the solid surface in a 350 grit. I sharpen many hand tools like planes and gouges learning to sharpen straight razors has given me a new standard for what I now call sharp.
Mike

I have the 8" DMTs. I like to lap with something at least as long as the stone I am lapping if possible. Just my preference, not sure that it is necessary.