Thread: Do new norton need lapping?

I want to order a norton. Do i really need the flattening stone? Do they need to be lapped when they arrive? Also do they need to be stored in water or just soaked before using?

if it is not flat yes.
you can check easily with a ruler for example.

Unless it was purchased lapped, which is unlikely, then yes it will.

Originally Posted by nicknbleeding

I want to order a norton. Do i really need the flattening stone? Do they need to be lapped when they arrive? Also do they need to be stored in water or just soaked before using?

I'll assume you are thinking about a Norton 4K/8K combo.

You don't really need a flattening/lapping stone, although using one is way easier than the alternatives IMO. You can use wet/dry sandpaper on a flat surface like a stone tile or surface plate. I have a Norton lapping stone, a DMT 8c, a Shapton Glass diamond lapping plate (GDLP) and sandpaper. After using all four I think the sweet spot is probably the DMT. It's reasonably priced and can be used for other tasks in addition to lapping. The GDLP works better for lapping, but it is significantly more expensive than the other methods.

You definitely need to lap the Norton before using it. In addition to flatness you are going for smoothness on the 4K side. A lot of the Nortons come with a fairly porous, almost gritty, feeling surface. I had to lap about an 1/8th inch off of mine to get it smooth. You also want to relieve the long edges by rounding them off slightly.

The 4K (and maybe the grits lower than 4K?) need to be soaked in water for about 15 minutes before honing. If you hone a lot, like some honemeisters, you could store the stone in water to save time. Most guys just soak the stone before a honing session.

Not too long ago the Norton was the standard stone for experienced honers which meant that there was (and is) an abundance of information on the forums regarding it's use. That made it the logical starting point for someone getting started. In the last few years the Shapton and Naniwa hones have displaced the Norton and carry with them some other benefits so you might want to consider them as well.

I agree with Bill that the Naniwas or Shaptons have sort of shot the Nortons out of the saddle. At least the Naniwas have for me. Doesn't matter what stones you buy or if you buy them lapped. Eventually you will have to do it again so either a flattening stone or sandpaper on a flat surface. I personally like the DMTC 325 continuous plate since it will last a long time if used properly.

+1 on what they said. I have a DMT8c as well and felt it a worthy purchase. When I lapped the stones out of the box, I was amazed at how NOT true they were! Also, don't forget to round all the edges, all 8 of them per stone (didn't see the need to round out the 4 verticals).

I saw a Norton video(some place) and they said you don't have to store them in water, just soak for 15 minutes before using.

DMT Diamond Stone, 70 mm, Blue 325 Grit

Can i use this for lapping?
I guess this might be small for what i would need but is this type ok if it is bigger

Originally Posted by nicknbleeding

DMT Diamond Stone, 70 mm, Blue 325 Grit

Can i use this for lapping?
I guess this might be small for what i would need but is this type ok if it is bigger

I've read on the forum that type works. I have the continuous plate (without the holes) and that is good if used in the sink under running water.

How hard is it to use just sand paper? Is there realy that big of a difference?

Originally Posted by nicknbleeding

How hard is it to use just sand paper? Is there realy that big of a difference?

I've never done it. You might do a forum search for 'sandpaper'. Here is a tutorial by Josh Earl on the subject with photos.