I went ahead and invested in a good quality whetstone 1000/6000 grit.


Now the question is, should water or honing oil be used?
The manufacturer says to submerge the stone for 20 minutes in water and rinse clean after use then let dry. But I have also read ( heard )that a honing oil should be used.

I'm up for suggestions

Thanks
Sal

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SWCA #2306
DAV in honor of POP

I've always used a light machine or gun oil, washing the stone clean after use.
When no oil was available I have used water and again I cleaned the stone after use.
Both have always worked for me and I do have good stones with no apparent damage through misuse.

I would follow the manufacturer's instructions to the letter. If you do, the product will last longer, and you will get better results.

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Ret. LE, FA Instr, S&W Armorer

I've been using Arkansas stones for many years, and have only used water. I think the stones would last longer? Can't say for sure, as I've never had to trash one where water only was used except where they simply wear away.

The stone I purchased from Buck recommended Buck honing oil, which I used religiously. After it was used up, I used my homemade Edd's Red solution, since the viscosity, color, and "feel" were the same as the honing oil.

Regardless what you use, the liquid's purpose is to suspend the finings so the abrasiveness is not compromised.

I use Smith Honing Solution on my sharpening stone.

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Life is short,live it fully.

Perrier Sparkling for its effervescent action it keeps your stones hard, happy and clean.

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Dum vivo cano

NICE

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SWCA #2306
DAV in honor of POP

I was under the impression that certain types of stones worked better with oil and other types of stone worked better with water. I'd opt for using the stone makers recommendations.

I prefer the results when I use a whetstone that was purposed for the use of light honing oil. BUT, certain synthetic stones are purposed for the use of water. IF that is the case, by all means follow the instructions. You will then get the best possible results from that TYPE of stone. ......

In that case, for the very best results possible shouldn't one add a certain little blue pill to the water prior to looking for the referenced results? :-)

Thanks gang.. the manufacturer sez water... water it is!!

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SWCA #2306
DAV in honor of POP