I read somewhere that when the Chosera stones were first introduced, American suppliers adviced them to be used (very) wet, whereas European suppliers adviced them to be used dry.
I thought these opinions would converge over time. All I’ve read lately about Chosera’s (from American sources) is that they should be soaked for 5-10 mins before use and be kept wet during use. However, my local Dutch knife seller (who is one of the sharpening experts here) recommends that the stones should only be wet a bit just before sharpening. They even warn against soaking which, according to them, would degrade the quality of the stone.
Here is a translation of a part of their warning:
[Quote]Chosera stones have been produced on the basis of bound magnesium. This is a production method that results in great sharpening properties, but it also makes these stones vulnerable to micro tears. To prevent this, the stones should not be wet more than necessary. They need not be soaked with water. Therefore don’t immerse the stones in water! It is also important that they are rubbed dry after use and are stored in a dark, dry place.[/quote]
Who is right? Or, perhaps more appropriately, why do such differences of opinion still exist now the Chosera stones exist for some time and we can exchange facts and ideas at the speed of electrons moving through internet cables?
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