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Oilstones

With the next few articles I will be unable to contribute anything that has not be said or written before so forgive me for that. That aside I still want share my take on things. Firstly, all sharpening mediums work, wether it be a natural waterstone or a door step. The trick is finding a medium that works for you. Also don't assume I'm down on other mediums or methods, I have used some of them but I prefer my oilstones.

Portable Oilstone
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I like the fact the system is portable. I carry a cheap silicone carbide combination stone in my tool box that travels from job to job with a small amount of honing oil, it's always at hand when needed and for the world away from the bench it gets an appropriate edge quickly. The typical oilstones required for most work are also very affordable. My site box oilstone cost around about £10.00, my go to bench stone costs around £35>40.00. Although cheap they are very very durable. There is no risk of low temperatures fracturing the stones as no water is used and they also wear very well indeed. Oilstones will hollow in time, I find once an month is more than adequate to keep it flat and fresh. The fact I'm using a honing oil means my tools don't rust as they are regularly wiped down with an oily rag.

India Oilstone
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Should you try them? If you already have a system you are happy with, absolutely not (unless you are curious). Sharpening is about the end result and getting back to work quickly, if you have a system that does that stick with it! If you don't have a system then sure, take a look. It's not a big investment if you find you don't like it, it's almost cheaper than the sandpaper you would need for scary sharp. My advice would be purchase an India Combination Stone with a "Fine" and "Coarse" side, a cheap side clamping honing jig,some honing oil (I find baby oil to be great value and ideal for sharpening), and maybe a strop with some metal polish.

Baby Oil Sharpening
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