Thread: DMT 8x3 or 6x2

Hi Guys,

I'm thinking of picking up a 1.2k DMT, to try it out and see how it works for bevel setting, perhaps honing out small chips. I'm if wondering you all prefer the 8x3 version, as there's slightly cheaper 6x2 one.

The 8x3 size of the nortons seems unnecessarily large to me, but perhaps it's just because it really is a polishing hone.

I thought I'd solicit some opinions.

I dunno if size matters. I have the larger DMTs which I use mostly for lapping other hones. I've tried the DMT 1.2K for bevel setting and don't like the sound of the steel on steel, so have relegated nasty bevel work to a coarse Norton hone.

YMMV, I know mine does.

I don't have the 1.2k, but have the 325. I own the 8x3 size specifically and maybe only because I use it for lapping my other hones. If I were to get a finer grit only for use with razors? The cheaper 6x2 would probably be fine for me.

For lapping I have and prefer the D8C 325. For sharpening razors (and knives) I prefer the D6E 1.2k at 2" x 6". I would get the smaller one for sharpening even if it was the same price. I like it's size/weight convenience.

I think it's big enough to do the job and it fits nicely into my tool roll with the barber hones.

I have both and definately much preffer the bigger 8X3. The width is not necessary for me but the extra length makes the job go a lot faster.

I have the 8x3 1.2k and I like it a lot. I used it to eat out some significant nicks from a razor and it did it fairly quick.

Thanks for the responses guys.
I've been meaning to start a new thread on hone lengths, just need to make a couple of pictures for illustration.

I have both sizes in the 1200-grit range, and if I didn't do a lot of honing I think I would use the 6x2" size more. I do use my 6x2" DMT 600-grit hone a lot, and as much as I want to upgrade it to the 8" version I haven't been able to justify it yet.

The hone cuts fast enough that a smaller size wouldn't take more than a few extra minutes to use, and the 6x2 is about the same size as my Belgian set.

Josh

P.S. You know you're a honing nerd when you carry a credit-card sized DMT in your wallet...

Originally Posted by JoshEarl

P.S. You know you're a honing nerd when you carry a credit-card sized DMT in your wallet...

Fantastic idea, now, how do I cut 6x2 in 2 pieces?
(CC is about 3.3"x2.1" and I wouldn't mind if there's a little space around the hone)

No need to cut one up. DMT makes a wallet sized version already. DMT's are so good they can read your mind (maybe)!