CBW,
Of course you are correct on both counts. The 1000 grit plates will not polish like the sandpaper at 2500 grit (FEPA-P), and the more you use the sandpaper, the less grit there is to do the job…and what is still there has generally fractured and become equivalent to a much finer grit. The only problem here is that it takes forever to get results once the paper is worn. This is surely the secret to a finer polish, but also to spending much more time getting there.
One can do a very nice job with sandpapers… and even better if some of the 3M lapping paper is added at finer grit levels. But,if the option to get some of the ceramics or Choseras, or Shaptons is there, you can get an even better polish and edge with better consistency over time (and not having to mess with changing paper, storing it, and having to continually replace it). I am happy that I went through the process of learning to use the sandpapers to their best effect (I still have a large supply of sandpaper and 3M film), but I am really glad that I have now gotten the stone selection that I use today. It took me close to two years to get there, but it is worth it.
I still want to get a full set of the 4 grits in the WEPS ceramics to give them a try, but that will be a bit later.
Just saying, if the opportunity arrises for anyone to try some of the finer grit stones, you will be happy that you did. If you do lots of sharpening, they will also end up being cheaper to use in terms of time savings, convenience, and material costs.
Phil
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