Thread: Random question: Could anthracite coal be used as a hone?

I know this a random question. I live in central Pennsylvania which is referred to as the coal region. Anthracite coal lacks imperfections so it would provide a consist sharpening surface. It is very smooth to the touch.

Obviously, it may have more use as a combustible material. I was just wondering if anyone has ever heard anything or has any thoughts.

Do you think the coal would hold up to lapping or would it crumble and never really yield a suitable honing surface? I honestly have no idea, that's just the first concern I thought of.

No, but try it and tell us.

Anthracite differs from ordinary bituminous coal by its greater hardness, its higher relative density of 1.3–1.4g/cm3. As a comparison, a coarse, soft Arkansas is considerably higher than this at 2.25 or less.

It apparently has achieved a MOHS hardness of 2.7-3.5, while artificial hones combined of aluminium oxide have a MOHS of 9.

I would think that anthracite coal is too coarse and too soft to be used for razors.

I don't think it would work. It's too soft and would leave a lot of messy residue behind.

However don't let that stop you from taking the bullet for us and trying it out. Who knows you might have come up with the best hone in the world and make monkeys out of us.

Originally Posted by StraightRazorDave

Do you think the coal would hold up to lapping or would it crumble and never really yield a suitable honing surface? I honestly have no idea, that's just the first concern I thought of.

I don't think it would crumble. Anthracite is a hard coal.

I really think you need to try it out now.

Originally Posted by Scipio

Anthracite differs from ordinary bituminous coal by its greater hardness, its higher relative density of 1.3–1.4g/cm3. As a comparison, a coarse, soft Arkansas is considerably higher than this at 2.25 or less.

It apparently has achieved a MOHS hardness of 2.7-3.5, while artificial hones combined of aluminium oxide have a MOHS of 9.

I would think that anthracite coal is too coarse and too soft to be used for razors.

I know it feels hard...especially to other coals. You may be right about the it being too soft. I'm not sure if I agree about the coarseness. It can often time look/feel like glass. That may be deceiving though.

I can give it a shot a junkie razor. I'll let you guys know what happens.

Originally Posted by jcsixx

I'm not sure if I agree about the coarseness. It can often time look/feel like glass. .

The novaculite Arkansases which have a comparable relative density would too feel smooth to touch, but as per the reference they are coarse with an equivalent grit of 600-800.

Lap down a large piece and post a picture. Give it a go with a junk razor and report your findings. Again, let neither us nor the scientific data regarding its hardness and coarseness deter you, for it is up to you how you choose to spend your time. I can think of many more boring ways to pass time.

Originally Posted by thebigspendur

It's too soft and would leave a lot of messy residue behind.

You sound like my wife.



Sorry I couldn't let that one slide.