Where to get ripped hones, or how to DIY?

I would like to try some synthetics that have been split in half lengthwise... (so they are narrower)

I have a WTB in the classifieds, but I guess I could do it myself. What type of saw/blade would be best for this? I have a table saw, so a straight cut wouldn't be a problem. I'm guessing I don't have the right blade though... I wonder if there's someone I could send some synthetics out to for ripping?

(Mods: I realize this borders on a request for services, if that violates any forum rules, feel free to remove this thread.)

A diamond wetsaw is the weapon of choice and the nicer the saw the better the cut.

There are dry cut blades- i have seen some dirt cheap ones. you might be able to put one on your saw, or use a grinder. If i was to try I would slowly raise the blade and cut both sides. Be Safe

they make hacksaw blades that will cut synthetics as well

A couple of the regulars (I'm thinking about ChrisL, for one) have ripped a variety of hones with pretty good success. A search might turn up some info, if you want to do it yourself. I think they used wet saws, as kevint suggested.

Philadelph cut one or more lengthwise and so did ChrisL. Here is a thread on Alex's and here is one on Chris's. A water saw would be the way to go if you could find one. One way or the other, watch your fingers. :)

AaronX and I split a set of Norton 220/1K and 4k/8k I cut them with 5 of the cheapest 24tpi hacksaw blades I could find....

I have not tried but assume it'd work. http://www.sears.com/shc/s/search_10...+hacksaw+blade

Ok... Time to order up a few synthetics, and then it's off to the hardware store for some blades.

I don't know why I keep assuming I have time to do all of these projects... Maybe there is some type of time warp delusion that goes along with all of the *AD's...

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Originally Posted by HNSB

Ok... Time to order up a few synthetics, and then it's off to the hardware store for some blades.

I don't know why I keep assuming I have time to do all of these projects... Maybe there is some type of time warp delusion that goes along with all of the *AD's...

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Awesome. Should you decide there is not enough time in the day for you-that's ok. I can get nearly any synthetic stone you wish in half widths, or 1/2 length, whatever you need. The odd thing though is they cost the same as full size. let me know if i can help

Thanks for digging up my Shapton 1k rip post, Jimmy. I appreciate it.

Yes, a diamond wet saw is the way to go. It works like a dream. I have also used one of those round carbide coated hacksaw files to cut a slate stone and while it worked, the cuts are very uneven. Sure, you can then lap them flat, but for me it was worth the $35 bucks to rent a contractor grade wet saw to cut the Shapton and about 8 Chinese 12k stones.

Oh, and my 1/2 width Shapton 1k is by far my favorite bevel setting stone. I just love it. What could be better? I sold the other half to Randy Tuttle and he likes his as well; that's saying a lot since he's a die hard wet dry sandpaper bevel setter!

Chris L

FWIW, ChrisL turned me on to Tools For Working Wood when they had a run of 8x1 1/2 Norton single grits in 1,4, and 8k for sale and I bought a set. If you cut those leaving one side a full 1 1/2 you'll have some handy stones. I use mine on smiling blades and warped spines to good effect.

I've never cut a waterstone length wise with a hacksaw but I've cut a Chinese 12k, a coticule and a Dalmore blue cross ways for a slurry stone and buddy .... it was work. I wouldn't have the energy or the patience to try ripping one lengthwise.... but I'm an old man. :shrug: Anyhow, if you have access to a bandsaw that is the route I would take.