Reply To: Sharpening on a budget?

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Ecky H
10 January 2020 at 7:14 pm #644142

Hello Jamie,

I’ve got that Axminster plate years ago and can’t confirm that “falling apart” feature. Surely it doesn’t last as long as the monocrystalline DMT, EZE-LAP, Atoma etc.
Mine served well, even with stubborn A2 irons. After roughly 3 years of weekly use it is much finer, but still usable. If you do the heavy work like reestablishing a damaged bevel eg. on sand paper, the plate will llast longer.
On the other hand of the particle size isn’t as even as on the much more expensive plates. Flatness also MAY be an issue. If you can visit an Axminster shop, you probably can check “your” plate with a straight edge.

The 6″x2″ are (too) small, in particular if you’re using an Eclipse type honing guide. And it’s difficult to sharpen plane irons and chisels wider than 2″.

If you can afford something around £67, this one could suit your circumstances: https://www.m-powertools.com/diamond-cross-8inch-bench-stone.html
I recently bought one and my first impression of it is quite good.

E.