Thread: Lapping A New Norton 4k/8k

Originally Posted by jamesm

How bad do you think the norton lapping stone is? I have been using the Norton Lapping Stone (and only that one) since i got the kit a few years back, but haven't tried anything else; I *think* it's been giving me good results, but don't have anything to compare it to.

Personally, I think it is junk. The reason is that it is very soft. Much softer than othe rnorton stones. So any mistakes during use will dish it out.
Given the small difference in price, I'd buy a DMT325 grit diamond plate. That will stay flat, and last a lifetime. The norton lapping plate is ok for using, but you have to chck regularly whether it is still flat or not.

I have a DMT sharpening stone and the Norton Lapping Stone. The DMT diamond embedded plate sharpening stone is much better than the Norton man made Lapping Stone. I never use the Norton because it is course, messy with sandy grit, slow, and uneven. The DMT plate is flat, cuts fast, is less messy, and is very effective.

Originally Posted by sheajohnw

I have a DMT sharpening stone and the Norton Lapping Stone. The DMT diamond embedded plate sharpening stone is much better than the Norton man made Lapping Stone. I never use the Norton because it is course, messy with sandy grit, slow, and uneven. The DMT plate is flat, cuts fast, is less messy, and is very effective.

I agree. The DMT 325 is invaluable if you're going to be honing with any regularity. I bought a dedicated Stone Holder for it which makes it a LOT easier to use. I even bought a little DMT sharpening card for my coticule bouts. It works awesome!!

Here's a link to the Stone Holder.

Amazon.com: Steelex D1091 Sharpening Stone Holder: Home Improvement

Thanks for the advice. I have noticed that the coarseness of the norton have left some scratches on my stones, but they have seemed flat. I will consider upgrading to the DMT, especially if i upgrade to a japanese polishing stone because i know the norton won't cut it. For the Norton set, Ill flatten my flattening stone just to be sure. I was always under the assumption that due to the softness they would tend to self correct to an extent.

Just ordered a DMT 325 and I am looking forward to fixing my hones. by reading this I may have some flattening to do!!

Originally Posted by jamesm

Thanks for the advice. I have noticed that the coarseness of the norton have left some scratches on my stones, but they have seemed flat. I will consider upgrading to the DMT, especially if i upgrade to a japanese polishing stone because i know the norton won't cut it. For the Norton set, Ill flatten my flattening stone just to be sure. I was always under the assumption that due to the softness they would tend to self correct to an extent.

If your gonna get a DMT get the 325/1200 combo stone. One side for lapping one side for bevel set. 2 birds with one stone