Thread: Charnley Question?

Have never used nor actually seen a Charnley up close.
Have asked this question on several sites and have never recieved an answere.
Why is it recomended to use oil on a Charnley and not other stones?
Just curious.

it appears to give better edge with oil.

Most stones from the UK were traditionally used with oil afaik, the reason could be that some stones are hydrophobic and when you use oil for sharpening your tools won't rust.

Not all CFs are hydrophobic but some really don't work with just water.

You can use oil on coticules too since they're non-porous and it works just as well...

Oilstones
Waterstones

Simple as that,,,

You can use water on an oilstone without ill effects, sometimes using a bit of soap to create the glide, but most waterstones should not be used with oil as it clogs the stone....

I don't like using oil on any stones at all. I find it is messy. I have also found that in the alternative where the stone appears to reject water, ie. hydrophobic as Piet says, a little dish soap or lather mixed with water can solve or certainly reduce the problem.

I use my CF with oil. And that's the only hone I use it on...

Originally Posted by Scipio

I don't like using oil on any stones at all. I find it is messy. I have also found that in the alternative where the stone appears to reject water, ie. hydrophobic as Piet says, a little dish soap or lather mixed with water can solve or certainly reduce the problem.

great big +1. I'm a soap and water on Charnley guy. Damn fine edge. Damn fine.

Thanks all,Guess I need a Charnley

I have to agree with use of oil on CF could give better edge. It also appears that lover grit CFs with oil prform much better than with water. But it is messy and I prefer water. However I am already deciding which one I will use with oil. Just for heck of it.