8″ Double Sided Diamond Sharpening Stone Set

Why does my new diamond stone feel aggressive at first?

This is completely normal. During manufacturing, a small number of diamond particles sit slightly higher on the surface than the rest. In your first few sharpening sessions, these are naturally dislodged, which can make the stone feel sharper or harsher than its rated grit suggests.

Once this brief settling phase is complete, the surface stabilises and develops a consistent, predictable feel. Your stone has simply reached its working state.

I’m seeing scratch lines on the fine side — is something wrong?

In almost all cases, this is caused by grit contamination. Moving a blade from the coarse side to the fine side without wiping it clean can transfer stray abrasive particles, leaving light marks on the finer surface.

These scratches are cosmetic only and have no effect on performance or longevity. Simply clean the blade before switching sides and it won’t happen again.

Why do your double sided stones come with a 10-year guarantee?

Because they’re built to last — and built to be serviced, not discarded.

Diamond wear occurs only on the outer working layer. When that layer eventually reaches the end of its life, the diamond plate can be replaced rather than the entire stone. Replacement plates are supplied free of charge, along with full fitting guidance. Installation is straightforward and typically takes around half an hour.

Long service life is by design.

Does pressing harder sharpen faster?

No. Excess pressure does not increase cutting efficiency — it increases the risk of dislodging abrasive particles.

Diamond abrasion works through surface contact, not downward force. Light, consistent pressure delivers the best results and extends the life of your plates.

How flat are the stones?

Each double sided stone is manufactured and inspected to a flatness tolerance of ±0.00175″ (±0.045 mm), measured diagonally across the working surface. That’s roughly half the thickness of a human hair.

Should I clean the stone while I’m sharpening?

Yes, particularly during longer sessions or when working through both grits. As steel is removed, microscopic particles combine with lubricant to form swarf, which can reduce cutting speed if left to accumulate.

Use the cleaning block on a dry plate to clear the surface quickly and restore cutting efficiency. Light, regular cleaning throughout your session keeps performance consistent.

Should I use the stone dry or with lubrication?

The stones can be used dry, but performance is noticeably better with lubrication. A low-viscosity lapping fluid keeps swarf suspended, prevents surface clogging, maintains cutting speed, and reduces wear.

Water works well but requires thorough drying afterwards. Oil is generally too viscous and can reduce cutting efficiency.

Use MPOWER’s Fully Synthetic Lapping Fluid

For best results, M.POWER’s purpose-formulated synthetic lapping fluid offers the ideal balance of flow, abrasion rate, corrosion protection, and surface cleanliness. It contains no mineral oils, sulphur, chlorine, phenol, or nitrates, making it safer for skin and kinder to your tools and plates.

Can the double sided stone sharpen ceramic blades?

Yes. Diamond is harder than ceramic, making these stones highly effective for sharpening ceramic knives.

Do diamond stones need to be flattened like waterstones?

No. Unlike traditional waterstones, diamond plates do not dish with use and require no flattening. In fact, they are commonly used to true and flatten other sharpening media.

What’s the difference between the two sides of the stone?

The coarse side features an interrupted surface pattern. This helps fluid and debris move freely across the plate, reducing clogging during sustained or heavy sharpening work.

The fine side has a continuous surface, providing uninterrupted contact for edge refinement. This side benefits from more attentive cleaning during extended sessions.

Can I use the stone to reshape or re-grind a primary bevel?

It’s possible, but it’s not what the stone is designed for. The double sided diamond stone is optimised for edge refinement and maintenance. Removing large amounts of material to reshape or re-establish a primary bevel is far more efficiently done on a powered grinding system.

Heavy stock removal on a bench stone is slow and puts unnecessary wear on the plates.

Cleaning and Storage

After each use:

1. Remove excess lubricant from both surfaces
2. Clear swarf using the cleaning block
3. For a deeper clean, rinse and lightly brush with mild detergent or lapping fluid
4. Dry both sides completely before storing

Avoid storing the stone while damp or with debris on the surface.

Safety Notice

Sharpening tools involves inherent risk. This stone should only be used by individuals who understand correct sharpening technique and safe tool handling procedures.