Currently I am using Norton Water Stones from 1000 grit to 8000 grit with good success so far and I may be interested in purchasing a set of Shapton Glass Stones. I have read an article and seen a few testimonials swearing it is faster more precise and easier to use, along with stones go up to 30000 grit.
I am wondering if any of you have any experience using this product and can advise if it is truly faster, easier and more importantly worth the money? Is there an alternate way to flatten the stones without using their lapping plate? Their lapping plate is really really expensive and my be the deciding factor if there is not an alternate method to flatten these stones. If not, I will probably continue to us my current set of stones and most likely live happily ever after.
I am once again relying on the wealth of knowledge out there to help me and possibly others with this decision.
Thanks Marc
-- If you are not living on the edge you are taking up to much room.
3 comments so far
a1Jim
home | projects | blog
16978 posts in 474 days
posted 80 days ago
Sorry I use a worksharpe
-- Jim from Heirloom Woodshop Southern Oregon
cmaeda
home | projects | blog
192 posts in 451 days
posted 80 days ago
Shaptons are really good. I don’t have waterstones so I can’t compare with traditional water stones but before I got shaptons, I did my research and the reason why I bought shaptons is because I don’t have to store them in water. Just splash some water on and they are good to go and they cut as fast as waterstones.
I used a granite plate and wet/dry sand paper to flatten my shaptons. It was tedious but a lot cheaper than their lapping stone. The lapping stone might be worth it in this regard because I got lazy flattening the stone sometimes.
But I did later switch to diamond stones and a ceramic stone for my final sharpening. No stropping needed and its’ really easy and nothing needs to be flattened.
NICUTO
home | projects | blog
26 posts in 513 days
posted 77 days ago
Those stones are GREAT!!! I used them at a class held by Lie Nielsen recently and I plan to purchase them in time. As far as I know, I’m pretty sure you could use any flattening stone, even sand paper to keep them flat. they do sharpen irons quickly, but I am unsure about their speed compared to regular water stones. The other plus is that they don’t need to soak, you can just spray them with water and they are ready to use.
Good luck!
NWB
-- Nick, Maine; www.nwbwoodworks.com