Thread: Surface Left By DMT D8XX Lapping

Hey all,

My DMT D8C is getting kind of worn, and isn't the most effective lapper anymore. I was thinking of getting the XX version of the DMT (120 grit) for lapping. I know it will do a great job at lapping, and work quickly relative to the 325 I'm sure, but my question has to do with the kind of surface it leaves.

I would use it only for my Nortons (or possibly other synthetics if I were to purchase any in the future), and definitely NOT my naturals since I can always use fine sandpaper on my granite surface plate if they ever need lapping.

So here's my question: Would using the XX on something as fine as the Norton 8k (or possible the 4k) leave it with scratches that would affect its performance?

I'm sure it will leave visible scratches on the hone, but I don't really care about that since I would only be using it to lap soulless synthetics. I couldn't be bothered using progressively finer grits to smooth out the surface to eliminate the scratches on a stone that just going to get lapped again. I just want to lap it quickly and use it. But I'm just curious what effect the scratches have on the feel and performance of the synthetics (notably the nortons).

Does anyone here use the DMT D8XX as they're primary lapper and hone right off of the surface lapped by it?

Many thanks!

I don't know if it would leave scratches, but if it does, your broken in DMTC should remove them. But if all you're doing is re-lapping hones, I would think even a broken in DMTC should be fine.

Mine does leave scratches but I do the bull work with the XX and finish with D8C 325. I'll remove most of the grid with the XX and then go to the C, It not only saves the 325 but it speeds things up considerably.

Thanks guys.

But when I said that my D8C was "getting kind of worn", I was under-exaggerating. It's become pretty useless for lapping, as has a really hard time even just refreshing the norton surfaces. The diamonds are still there, but have become SO worn, so would like to replace it entirely as a lapping plate.

Ah, gotcha. If I were in your position, I'd just get a new 325, unless you anticipate buying lots of new hones in the near future.

Originally Posted by JimmyHAD

Mine does leave scratches but I do the bull work with the XX and finish with D8C 325. I'll remove most of the grid with the XX and then go to the C, It not only saves the 325 but it speeds things up considerably.

I do the same. I even do Naturals with it, Coti's, whatever...Some stones are worse than others, like Barber hones. You definitely need to progress them up to 1000grit wet sandpaper for them to look good again.

As previously mentioned, your broken in DMT 8c should be just the ticket to finish after the XX....