Thread: Spyderco medium and fine

I know the uf Spyderco is well-rated by members, but I just wondered what thoughts are on the medium and the fine hone they make?

Would they be as good as the Norton 4k/8k?

I sold my Nortons and replaced them with Spyderco F and UF. That's all I'll ever need. I don't see a need for a hone that cuts faster than the Spyderco fine. I think the medium is more for knives than for razors.
But then again, because of the 3" width of the Nortons, they are great for learning. Let me put it this way: Nortons are a save bet, whereas Spydercos are appreciated most when coming from Nortons.

Originally Posted by welshwarrior

I know the uf Spyderco is well-rated by members, but I just wondered what thoughts are on the medium and the fine hone they make?

Would they be as good as the Norton 4k/8k?

I would not want to shave off the fine stone, as it is rated at about 1200-2000 grit which is fine for knives (the medium is 600 grit which is VERY course for razors). If you add the Ultra Fine then you will have a great set, but not with just the Medium and Fine. You could just get the fine and ultra fine if you don't want to restore very dull razors or fix problems.

I have all three spydercos and agree with the above about the fine and uf. The medium is good for restoration and putting on an inital bevel. Most who have tried the uf are very satified with the finish. My edges come out super sharp and give a very close shave.

I agree w the grit recommendations above.

If you get Spydercos near the +/- 0.020 tolerance (as I have), be prepared to buy a DMT for lapping. You'll be at it for quite a while; Spydercos are extremely hard.

All three of mine were very near the stated tolerance, including the pre-lapped UF. The UF is said to be diamond lapped at the factory. It's runout variance/inch was the worst of the 3.

Some need lapping, some don't.

Good Luck,