Where to the super fine and micro fine stones fit in the sharpening progression? It seem like most people talk about going from the 1500 grit/9 micron laps and down but I don’t see anything talking about where, when and how ceramics are used. I’m trying to figure out if they are a valuable tool or not.
Thanks in advance,
Kevin
I own the micro-fine ceramics and I like them. I will typically use them after the 1500 diamond instead of reaching for the lapping films. The ceramic stones are not a rapidly consumable item like the lapping films are (although you might be able to wear them down over the course of a lifetime or two of sharpening). They also leave a different edge finish that seems to have more tooth to it when compared to the diamond lapping film finish, but that could just be a figment of my imagination.
The question as to where they fit in the overall grit progression has been discussed numerous times on the forum. You should try doing a search. Check out this knowledge base article as well.
They do make a knife significantly sharper in the one dimension that the BESS sharpening machine measures. I like to use them after the 1500 diamonds as well if I’m not going for a mirror finish. If I’m going for a mirror finish and also want a sharper edge, then I’ll create the primary bevel at a lower angle and polish it as much as needed, then create a micro-bevel a few degrees wider with the Micro-Fine white stone.
Just so you know, some of the grits and sharpening mediums are used, “either/or”. The sharpening stones are not intended to all work together in one long sharpening progression inclusive of every stone and grit. Like Organic explained above…one or the other.