diamond coated steel plates

[DFHicks]

  Within the last year or so there was a response to a question on engraving that told of a source of diamond coated steel plates.  These could then be epoxied to a backing of appropriate thickness as replacements for the Lindsay Graver Sharpening Fixture diamond stones.  I can't seem to find this thread.  Does anyone recall this post?  By my own mistake I have worn out the 120 stone in the Lindsay kit.
Thanks _ DF

[kutter]

This is where I got the one I have, and the one before it I mistakenly pushed off the bench into the trashcan and threw away.

http://www2.knifecenter.com/kc_new/store_store.html?ttl=Diamond%20Bench%20Stones&k=benchstone&c=diamond&

I think mine is the $25.95 (sale) one,,DMT D6F 6" Dia-Sharp Continuous Diamond, Fine
6" x 2",,1/4" thick

I don't use a Lindsey Sharpener system, but these are handy for alot of sharpening work.
Lots of different sizes of plates available from them under the DMT brand.

[Acer Saccharum]

Diamond cuts almost anything from HHS to carbide....but they are a fragile medium. The diamond grit break down rapidly, exacerbated by a lot of pressure on the cutting tool. LArge tools are kinder on the diamond, since there is more contact area, but a graver poses a lot of pressure for a small area, and THAT will crush the diamonds in a hurry. Best bet is to get or make a holder that will set the angle for your tools. That speeds your sharpening (and re-sharpening).

[cmac]

Woodcraft supply has them. Size of a credit card. Course, medium and fine.

[kutter]

I've used mine for many years and never had a problem with damaging it.
The first one lasted about 5 years before I accidently disposed of it! This second one I've had for about 20years.
I sharpen everything from carbide to plain carbon steel with it. Hand held only when I do use it. Quick and simple. I set up the point angles on a new graver(or a well used one) first on a power hone, then use the plate as I work to resharpen freehand.
Even the fine grit/cut is aggresive, so very light pressure is needed and only a couple swipes to renew the point.

I remember running it under the faucet once in all that time to clean the plate. I had been using some older carbon steel gravers and they glazed the plate. But it cleaned right up no problem. I always use it dry though I've heard of some using a lube on the plate. Kind of messy around engraving and un-necessary I think but what ever gets you the result you need.

[T*O*F]

Does anyone recall this post?

Yes, I posted the reply.  Smoky Mountain Knife Works has them in various sizes and grits at prices better than most others.  I use the credit card sized ones.  Initially, I used them dry and they loaded up.  Recently I discovered a spritz of Windex works well when sharpening.

[JDK]

I am still using oil and water stones but have considered investing in some diamond stones.

Do you guys pay attention to whether the plates you buy are made with monocrystalline or polycrystalline diamonds?

I have heard the performance and longevity of polycrystalline diamonds are better....and more expensive.

How do you find them?  Is it worth springing for the poly over the mono or will either suffice?

Thanks, J.D.

[JTR]

I've had one, a 3" X 8", for about 15 years, and it's only slightly worn. If it was paper, I'd say about a 400 grit originally.
I've sharpened knifes, chisels, gravers, and even used it for the finish draw filing on a piece of barrel once. The way it's going, it should last another 15 years.
The brand name is EZE LAP Diamond Stone, Carson City, NV.

John

[kutter]

I am still using oil and water stones but have considered investing in some diamond stones.

Do you guys pay attention to whether the plates you buy are made with monocrystalline or polycrystalline diamonds?

I have heard the performance and longevity of polycrystalline diamonds are better....and more expensive.

How do you find them?  Is it worth springing for the poly over the mono or will either suffice?

Thanks, J.D.

I didn't know there were different types,,mono,,poly,,I just bought a diamond sharpening plate.
But I went back and looked and mine is the monocrystalline (probably why it's el-cheapo compared to some of the others in the link I posted for KnifeCenter !)
If that's the one that wears out fast, so be it. But it's lasted me for 20yrs so far under constant use and I do this for a living.
It also sees use for wood chisels and carving knives, ect.
I used to use oil stones before too and wore grooves into them from free hand sharpening of gravers. I'd never go back to them again.
JMHO

[JDK]

Thanks Kutter,

That's why I wanted to hear from somebody in the trade, who's had experience using these.

Enjoy, J.D.