Diamond or Water Stone

[Ed Gibbons]

I’m new to sharpening. I plan on starting with stones. Should I get water or diamond stones? Any feedback would be appreciated including which brand. Thanks.

[David Gilbert]

For turning get an 8-inch CBN wheel (180 grit) for most of your tools. CBN is a lot better than the aluminum oxide wheels. I have both diamond and water stones for my planes, woodworking chisels and such. For turning, I use Shapton water stones (1000 and 8000) only for my skews. Skews get rough sharpened on the CBN and then I go to the Shapton.

Cheers,
David

[Reed Gray]

Hones are better for touching up tool edges. For the heavy duty stock removal we do, especially on bowls, you need a grinder for a more durable edge.

robo hippy

[Don Jarvie]

Diamond. You don’t need to get the tools razor sharp like a chisel. Diamond stones are easier from a mess stand point compared to water stones.