Quote Originally Posted by randydance062449 View Post
People use water on most natural stones or a light oil/kerosene where appropriate to help remove the buildup of "swarf". Swarf is the metal filings that result from honing and other junk stuff. If you like to hone on metal filings then go ahead and hone dry.
OK, I get it now.

swarf = bad
slurry = good

It probably follows that it's ok to hone while slurring your words, but bad if you have just barfed on the hone.