Thread: 4k/8k stored in water ok?

Hi,

I saw (can't find the source) someone recommending that you not leave the 4k/8k Norton in water because they could dissolve or separate or something bad I've emailed the folks at Saint-Gobain (Pike-Norton HQ) and haven't received any response in a week. I've been leaving mine in a bucket of water since I've had it, but that hasn't been too long ~4 months. My wife would freak if I had to get another one. Anybody have any longer term experience? BTW, my Norton is one of the newer non-factory-beveled models.

Thanks,
Steve

It can dissolve??? Wow, not cool

Never seen or heard this before

I have had mine stored in water for over 7 months no problems

I believe that Howard stated on his website theperfectedge.com that the two sides will eventually come appart if the stone is stored in water because the glue will weaken. I am not sure how long this would take or if it would even happen to all stones; but I would be interested to find out as well. Lynn stated in his DVD that he does store his in a bucket of water since he uses it every day.

I store mine in those blue plastic containers that they ship in.
Before each use I soak them in a vase for a couple of minutes.

Originally Posted by heavydutysg135

I believe that Howard stated on his website theperfectedge.com that the two sides will eventually come appart if the stone is stored in water because the glue will weaken.<snip>

Thanks heavyD! That's where I read it.

I also store mine in the blue case, but make sure you let it dry for three or four days before you to put into the case, or you will develop mold. I let mine sit on its side on top of the fridge for a week and then put it into the case.

I'm also with the 3-4 day drying and container storage approach.

Lucky bastards... I can't seem to last 4 days without starting some razor from the pile on the 4k So the Norton is spending quality time in the bucket.

What never ceases to amaze me is how my wife tolerates this bucket in the bathroom I think we got it from BB&Beyond so it's not too ugly or anything but still... And at some points I also have my marble plate there along with assorted wet/dry grits. So far I have heard only one negative comment but I think then the papers were actually in the shower as I had washed them after lapping and left them there to dry a bit

Cheers
Ivo

This is not a good idea. I sell Nortons and people email me about them from all over the world for a couple of years now. There have been numerous cases of stones separating after being stored in water. Perhaps that doesn't happen with every stone but why take the chance?

BTW, I sell Norton stones and they don't get back to me very quickly either!