Why does my diamond stone feel aggressive at first but smoother over time? Is it wearing out too fast?

It’s normal! The rough surface sharpens aggressively at first. With use, it smooths, exposing more diamonds for consistent performance. The break-in varies but usually takes several uses. Your stone isn’t wearing out—it’s adjusting for long-term use!

Is water or oil required during the sharpening process?

Avoid using water during sharpening, as it may cause the iron filings on the stone's surface to rust. Testing shows minimal difference in sharpening performance between using oil and dry sharpening, so oil is not necessary.

After using the stone, dark areas appear on its surface. Does this mean the diamonds have worn off?

No, the dark areas are dried dirt from sharpening, not a sign of the diamonds wearing off. These marks don’t affect performance and can be left as is. For minor marks, use an eraser. For tough stains, clean with Bar Keepers Friend and air dry fully.

Should I use high pressure when sharpening with this diamond stone?

Avoid applying excessive pressure when sharpening, as it can accelerate wear on the diamond and shorten its lifespan. Instead, use light pressure to maximize the sharpening performance of the diamond particles.

How long does it last?

The lifespan depends on usage, the hardness of the materials being sharpened, and maintenance. With proper care, it can last many years, even for those sharpening 3 to 4 times a week. Regular cleaning and light pressure extend its durability.

How to clean the diamond stone?

To clean the stone, gently wipe the surface with a dry paper towel. If particles are clogged, use a rubber eraser or nylon brush to remove them. This will restore the stone to its original condition.

The stone I received has some small pits on the shorter sides. Is this normal?

Yes, this is normal. The pits are caused by clamps used during the electroplating process and are not a sign of defects or prior use.

Which version should I choose: 162N 8" x 3" or 156N 6" x 2.5"?

If budget allows, choose the 8" x 3" version for its larger surface, which is more efficient and easier to use for knives 8 inches or longer and tools. The 6" x 2.5" version is compact and sufficient for knives 6 inches or shorter.

What is the cause of the rust and how can I deal with it?

The base of this product is stainless steel and will not rust. Any rust is caused by iron filings left on the stone's surface that oxidize if not cleaned. Use Bar Keepers Friend powder to clean it and ensure the stone is fully air-dried.

Is it normal to see scratches on the surface after sharpening with this diamond stone?

Yes, it's completely normal. The scratches are just typical signs of use and do not affect the performance of the diamond stone. The diamond layer remains intact, so its sharpening ability stays as effective as ever.

ASIN	B07GRWVT4F
Best Sellers Rank	#27,698 in Tools & Home Improvement ( See Top 100 in Tools & Home Improvement ) #34 in Sharpening Stones
Brand	SHARPAL
Color	silver
Customer Reviews	4.7 4.7 out of 5 stars (6,196)
Date First Available	1 January 2024
Item Weight	454 g
Material	Monocrystalline Diamonds
Model Number	156N
Product Dimensions	6.5 x 3.27 x 1.26 cm; 453.59 g

156N Diamond Whetstone Knife Sharpener with Storage Base, 2 Side Grit Coarse 325 / Extra Fine 1200, Diamond Sharpening Stone with Non-Slip Base and Angle Guide (152 x 63mm / 6 x 2.5 Inch)

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