SBS Triple Diamond Sharpening Stone Set – Side By Side

How do I break in my SBS Diamond Sharpening Stone?

When your SBS Side by Side first arrives, it can feel noticeably rougher than you expected, even on the finer plates. That “extra bite” at the start is normal.

During manufacturing, most diamond particles are firmly bonded into the nickel layer, but a small number can sit slightly proud of the surface (typically around 70% embedded overall). Early sharpening naturally knocks away these high points.

While this brief break-in period is happening, cutting speed can feel very high. After a few sharpening sessions, the surface settles, the grit feels more consistent, and the feedback becomes smoother and more predictable.

What type of diamond: monocrystalline or polycrystalline?

The SBS Diamond Bench Stone uses premium monocrystalline diamond on its plates.

Monocrystalline diamond is a single-crystal abrasive. Because each particle is one solid crystal, it tends to be tougher and more wear-resistant, keeping its cutting points working longer and maintaining a more consistent feel over time.

Polycrystalline diamond is made from clusters of smaller crystals bonded together. It can fracture more easily, which may expose fresh sharp edges, but it generally breaks down faster and can feel less consistent as the abrasive structure changes.

For a three-plate, side-by-side sharpening system built for repeatable results from coarse through fine, monocrystalline diamond is the preferred choice for long-term stability and dependable performance.

I’m seeing small scratches on the 1200 grit plate. Where do they come from?

This can happen occasionally, especially during break-in. The most common cause is cross-contamination between grits.

If you move from a coarser plate to the fine plate without wiping the blade, stray coarse diamond particles (for example from the 300 grit surface) can remain on the tool. Those particles can then get trapped between the blade and the finer plate, leaving light scratch marks.

These marks are cosmetic and won’t shorten the life of the SBS — and they’re easy to avoid with a quick wipe between grit changes.

How can the SBS be guaranteed for 10 years?

Because it’s designed to be renewed, not discarded.

When a diamond plate reaches the end of its working life, it’s usually only the top fraction of the surface (often under 20 thou) that’s worn. Instead of replacing the entire assembly, the worn diamond plate can be removed and replaced by the owner.

Replacement diamond plates covered by our 10-year guarantee are supplied free of charge, with clear fitting instructions.

Designed to last. Designed to be renewed.

Will more pressure make sharpening faster?

Short answer: no.

Diamond plates don’t reward brute force. Pressing harder doesn’t increase cutting speed — it increases the risk of pulling diamond particles from the nickel-plated surface.

For the best cutting performance and longest service life, use light, controlled pressure and let the SBS do the work.

How flat is the SBS Diamond Bench Stone?

The SBS is manufactured and tested to within ±0.00175″ (±0.045 mm), measured corner-to-corner across the diamond surface. For reference, that’s approximately half the thickness of an average human hair.

Should I clean the SBS while I’m sharpening?

Yes — especially during longer sessions rather than quick touch-ups. The SBS Kit includes a cleaning block. With the plate dry, rub the cleaning block over the surface to lift swarf paste quickly.

As you sharpen, swarf (fine metal particles) becomes suspended in the lubricant. If it builds up, that swarf-laden fluid can paste onto the surface, reducing cutting efficiency and slowing abrasion.

A clean plate keeps the SBS cutting at its best.

Should I use the SBS dry or with lubricant?

The SBS can be used dry, but a low-viscosity lubricant typically improves cutting speed and consistency. A purpose-made lapping fluid is the best option.

Lapping fluid helps prevent clogging and pasting by keeping fine metal particles suspended, rather than letting them pack into the diamond surface.

If pasting develops, abrasion slows and efficiency drops.

Can the SBS sharpen ceramic knives?

Yes. Diamond abrasives are extremely hard, however, we recommend the SB1 Diamond Sharpening Stone for knives. Its single-stone layout gives longer blades more clearance and easier access than the SBS side-by-side arrangement.

The SBS is best suited to sharpening chisels and plane irons.

Does the SBS need flattening like a whetstone?

No. Diamond plates don’t need flattening, and they’re often used to flatten other sharpening stones.

Interrupted vs. continuous surfaces: what’s the difference?

Interrupted patterns (dots, holes, or contour lines) help keep the surface clearer by channeling swarf-laden fluid away from the blade contact area. This reduces clogging and helps maintain consistent cutting.

Continuous surfaces can be better for small or pointed tools, but they generally require more frequent cleaning to prevent pasting or skating.

Can I regrind primary bevels on the SBS?

In short, yes — and the same is true for most diamond bench stones.

However, it’s not recommended.

Primary bevel grinding is best handled by a powered system (such as a Tormek). A bench stone is designed for precise work at the cutting edge, not heavy stock removal.

Regrinding a primary bevel can require ten to twenty times more material removal. You can do it, but it will take significant time and will shorten the working life of the plates unnecessarily.

Water, oil, or lapping fluid — what should I use?

Neither water nor oil is ideal. Oil is too viscous and can cause skating, reducing abrasion. Water is preferable, but the plates must be fully cleaned and completely dried before storage.

The optimal option is a low-viscosity lapping fluid. It maintains high abrasion rates and helps reduce oxidation or rust after sharpening.

A fully synthetic, water-based lapping fluid is available that contains no:

• Nitrates
• Mineral oil
• Sulphur
• Chlorine
• Phenol

This helps protect tools from rust and reduces the chance of skin irritation commonly associated with petroleum-based fluids.

How should I clean and protect the SBS after use?

After sharpening:

• Dry the plates to remove excess fluid.
• Rub the surface with the cleaning block.
• If a deeper clean is needed, rinse and gently scrub with a used toothbrush and diluted dish detergent or lapping fluid.
• Dry thoroughly before storage.

Storing the SBS damp or loaded with swarf can encourage rust to form on the surface.

Tool Safety

A cautionary note: sharpening tools can be hazardous, particularly for those who are young, inexperienced, or untrained.

Sharpening should only be undertaken by users with adequate skill and understanding.