How to Clean Diamond Sharpening Steel in 4 Steps

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Most people think that keeping your diamond polishes in good shape is complicated. While it may wear down over time, there are simple steps you can take to delay this. The condition of your hone depends on how you use and take care of it.

Want to know how to extend the use of your diamond hones? In this article, we’ll give you the best tips on how to clean a diamond sharpening steel so that you can maximize its use. From cleaning to sharpening and maintaining your tool, we’ll breakdown the most efficient techniques for you so that you can take full advantage of your hones.

What you Need to Clean a Diamond Sharpening Steel;

Clean bladeWaterClothToothbrushDish soapLubricantCleaner/Degreaser

Clean Diamond Sharpening Steel in 4 Steps

Step 1: Clean your tool

Clean Diamond Sharpening Steel

Before you start the process, it is necessary to ensure that the blade you are working on is clean and free from rust and debris. A clean blade will prevent objects from clogging the sharpening tool. When objects block the stone, it can potentially slow down the sharpening process.

How: To clean your diamond sharpening stones, start by spraying a cleaner or degreaser on the stone. Use a toothbrush brush to apply the cleaner into the crevices of the stone. Afterward, rinse it off with warm water.

As you rinse, continue to scrub the stone. This ensures that all debris and metal shavings are removed. You won’t have to apply too much pressure while scrubbing. Once you are done, wipe the stone properly to remove the metal shavings and keep it dry.

Step 2: Remove the rust

Remove the rust

Getting rid of the rust or discoloration can significantly improve the sharpening process. Follow the first step before you proceed to the next step.

How: For deep cleaning, apply a cleaning agent and spread it evenly on the surface of the stone. You can either use a powder or liquid cleaner. However, the liquid version is easier to use.

Gently scrub the surface of the stone with a toothbrush for one or two minutes. Then rinse it off with water while continuously scrubbing. This will help get rid of the rust or discoloration and bring back the former glory of your diamond sharpening stone. Wipe it off with a cloth and keep it dry.

Step 3: Sharpen your tool

However, avoid over-sharpening. When sharpening, you don’t have to apply too much pressure. Just apply the weight of your hand.

How: Apply around 30 strokes on a traditional sharpening stone. This step will help extend the life of your diamond sharpening tool. Use coarser grit sizes to repair nicks and match the sharpener with the bevel while keeping your angle consistent.

Step 4: Break-in your diamond sharpening stone

Break-in your diamond sharpening stone

This step ensures the longevity of your tool. Diamond sharpening stones are saturated with diamonds which are spread densely. Make sure you use a good lubricant in this process.

How: There are three ways to break it in.

Method 1: Sharpen your tool but use a big and dull knife. Don’t forget to always keep your stone lubricated at all times and rinse it often.

Method 2: Use hardened steel over the surface. Make sure to spread plenty of lubricants and apply light pressure on it. Run the steel over the stone for five minutes.

Rinse it off now and then to get rid of the particles that may have loosen. Avoid using big steel because the loose particles may end up grinding in the nickel plating. The standard size should be one by one inches.

Method 3: Flatten a water stone under running water to rinse off the stone during the process. However, make sure to avoid flattening the back of a blade with a new diamond stone. A brand new diamond stone would be broken in first before you use it to flatten a blade.

Additional Tips

When breaking in a diamond stone, always make sure that you apply enough puddle of lubricant at all times and rinse the stone regularly preferably after one minute followed by every two minutes until it is broken in. It usually takes five minutes to break in a diamond sharpening stone.

After several sharpenings, use a small amount of dish soap and toothbrush to clean the hones. Make sure that the hones are completely dry before storing it in the case.

Understanding your Sharpening Tool

Understanding your Sharpening Tool

A diamond surface stone is an effective sharpening tool. The dotted pattern works efficiently as the holes collect the metal particles to prevent loading.

Sharpening refers to the removal of particles from the edge to maintain a well-defined edge. Sharpening your hones is a must as it keeps your tools in good shape and more functional for your needs. It keeps your tools easier to use and safer too.

As you sharpen your tool, the metal objects will start to accumulate on the surface. Hence, it is important to wash and clean it dirty after use to avoid clogging the hone. At the same time, make sure you clean your edge before sharpening it.

When it comes to breaking it in, a diamond sharpening steel appears more aggressive and will immediately smoothen the edge for longer performance. You can either choose a continuous diamond surface or an interrupted diamond surface depending on your preference.

Start the process by using coarser grit sizes then step down as you refine the edge. Make sure to match the bevel angle while ensuring that you maintain a consistent angle. Also, avoid over sharpening your tool.

Bottom line

Many people use diamond sharpening stones as it requires the least maintenance. However, you need to clean it regularly to keep it in top shape. Otherwise, your hones will become clogged and inefficient for use in the long run. Just follow the steps above to extend the longevity of your sharpening tools.

Did you find this article helpful? Post your comments, questions, and feedback below. If you like this simple and easy tutorial, share this article with your friends.

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