Thread: Another hone question

Sorry for yet another hone question in such quick succession guys.

The kit I purchased elsewhere had a Norton flattening stone with it and I'm aware of issues relating to it's use and it needing regular lapping etc.

My question is whether the reverse side could be used as a dedicated waterstone in itself (once lapped of course), for working on very dull knives or repairing damaged razor edges?

I'm presuming that it's grit size is similar to the more expensive of the two Naniwa Lapping Plates (which is rated at 220 grit), given that they're designed to perform very similar jobs to each other.

Also, if the Norton isn't suitable then would the Naniwa be up for the task (I ask this as it's literally half the price of the equivalent 220 grit waterstone in the UK)?

From what I understand, you shouldn't under any circumstances use a lapping plate as a sharpening stone. I'm not sure how the back side looks, but if I were in your position, I wouldn't try it. Well, I would because I'm curious, but it's not a good idea. You can buy a double sided 200-400 grit silicon carbide stone for 1 euro or dollar from any hardware shop. Those lapping stones are expensive.

I've used it before out of curiosity and it works. Not the best stone but it works.

IIRC the norton lapping stone is a 120 grit. I don't see why you couldn't use it as a hone for coarse work. Never tried it myself, nor do I know anyone who has but I wouldn't be surprised if it would work well for that purpose.

Edit; Theseus said it worked for him ! Give it a shot.

Originally Posted by JimmyHAD

IIRC the norton lapping stone is a 120 grit. I don't see why you couldn't use it as a hone for coarse work. Never tried it myself, nor do I know anyone who has but I wouldn't be surprised if it would work well for that purpose.

Edit; Theseus said it worked for him ! Give it a shot.

120 grit thats major metal removal !

Originally Posted by Theseus

I've used it before out of curiosity and it works. Not the best stone but it works.

I should add that I've only used it on one razor, a wedge that had been horribly breadknifed. Everything else I've used it on were knives that needed some work.

I've used the flat side of the Norton flattener often -- knives, a hatchet, breadknifing duties, it works fine.