Thread: Lapping plate question

I have a Norton 4k/8k and am planning on picking up a Naniwa 12k to get an extra step in my hone progression before going to pastes, and I was looking into getting a lapping plate (hopefully that I could use to lap both the Naniwa and the Norton) - I currently use sandpaper, but it can be messy and somewhat time consuming.

I was thinking of getting the DMT 325 Coarse grit (8x3)...for those experienced, does this sound like a solid choice - as far as I can find, it seems to be a good decision, but want some feedback before pulling the trigger.

Thanks guys!

Originally Posted by Razorburne

I have a Norton 4k/8k and am planning on picking up a Naniwa 12k to get an extra step in my hone progression before going to pastes, and I was looking into getting a lapping plate (hopefully that I could use to lap both the Naniwa and the Norton) - I currently use sandpaper, but it can be messy and somewhat time consuming.

I was thinking of getting the DMT 325 Coarse grit (8x3)...for those experienced, does this sound like a solid choice - as far as I can find, it seems to be a good decision, but want some feedback before pulling the trigger.

Thanks guys!

Yes. The cost of this advice is for you to purchase an additional d8c and send it to me.

I have a Norton lapping stone, DMT 8C, Shapton GDLP and an assortment of sandpaper that I have used for lapping. The Shapton is, hands down, the superior method for lapping. Taking cost into consideration, the DMT probably makes the most sense. It does a great job and is very reasonably priced. Sandpaper is kind of messy to work with (as you said) and, if you do any amount of lapping, might not even be that cost effective vs. the DMT. So, if you can't justify the Shapton go with a DMT. I think you will be pleased with how well it works.

I have the DMT's, including the D8XX, that's what I use for lapping, it makes quick work of stones, especially those stubborn barber hones. However, it leaves a rough edge on your stone, so you'll still need to take it down. The D8C is good, you must use it under running water. The norton lapping plate will do the Naniwa 12k, I have both. If you like I can test it for you. I still would get the D8C, it's more versatile....
Rich

My vote would also be for the DMT D8C. I recently received one and it works wonderfully for lapping waterstones such as my nortons as well as coticules. It's not the greatest for barber hones, as I've read the DMT D8XX is recommended for that. But for normal hones (not superhuman hard barber hones) the DMT D8C works great.

Oh, and I don't have the Shapton DGLP, but I honestly don't think I can justify the cost of that considering the DMT works great for my purposes.

The D8XX leaves a very rough finish on your stones. The D8C smooths it out nicely.

The R&D plate DMT sent me leaves a finish somewhat in between these two extremes. Plus its freaking huge, measuring 10x4, which is awesome. And has polka dots for less sticktion. Thus, my vote goes to buying a 10" duo sharp coarse/x-coarse. $100 but hey, you get the best of both worlds. Coarse for finishing and x-coarse for those tough stones that need the xtra cutting power.

As for me, I love the XX they sent me, but I think it needs the coarse to smooth out the surface. I'm seriously thinking of upgrading my D8C to the polka dot version in 10". The extra surface area is a godsend.