The TRUTH about CBN vs Diamond sharpening stones

A fascinating look at the differences between the two superabrasives- diamonds and CBN
▼EXPAND THIS SECTION FOR MORE RESOURCES RELATED TO THIS VIDEO▼
Tools used in this video:
-CBN bench stones and hones: woodturnerswonders.com/collec...
-Diamond bench stones and hones (Trend): amzn.to/3EMZD3b
-CBN discs for Worksharp: woodturnerswonders.com/collec...
-CBN wheels for Tormek: woodturnerswonders.com/collec...
-Diamond wheels for Tormek: amzn.to/3FUz1yB
-CBN bench grinder wheels: woodturnerswonders.com/pages/...
-Diamond bench grinder wheels: woodturnerswonders.com/collec...
Links promised in this video:
-More sharpening videos on our website: stumpynubs.com/category/free-...
-Subscribe to our e-Magazine: stumpynubs.com/browse-and-sub...
-Check out our project plans: stumpynubs.com/product-catego...
-Instagram: / stumpynubs
★THIS VIDEO WAS MADE POSSIBLE BY★
Woodturners Wonders woodturnerswonders.com/
Please help support us by using the link above for a quick look around!
(If you use one of these affiliate links, we may receive a small commission)
★SOME OF MY FAVORITE CHEAP TOOLS★
-123 Blocks: lddy.no/vpij
-Mechanical Pencils: amzn.to/2PA7bwK
-Lumber pencil: amzn.to/2QtwZjv
-Pocket Measuring Tape: amzn.to/2kNTlI9
-Irwin Drill Bit Gauge: amzn.to/2AwTkQg
-Nut/Bolt/Screw Gauge: amzn.to/2CuvxSK
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-Bit & Blade Cleaner: amzn.to/2TfvEOI
-Digital depth gauge: amzn.to/3mwRf2x
-Wood Glue: amzn.to/3mqek6M
-Spade Bits: amzn.to/3j8XPtD
★SOME OF MY FAVORITE HAND TOOLS★
-Digital Caliper: amzn.to/384H1Or
-Marking Gauge: lddy.no/10muz
-Marking knife: lddy.no/10mv0
-Narex Chisels: lddy.no/sqm3
-Stanley Sweetheart Chisels: amzn.to/3y5HDOc
-Mini Pull Saw: amzn.to/2UEHBz6
-Gent Saw: lddy.no/ss2x
-Coping saw: amzn.to/2W7ZiUS
-Shinwa Rulers: lddy.no/zl13
★SOME OF MY FAVORITE POWER TOOLS★
-Miter Saw: amzn.to/3gqIlQ8
-Jointer: amzn.to/3yc3gfZ
-Planer: amzn.to/3mn6BGF
-Router: amzn.to/3grD22S
-Sander: amzn.to/3DdvD0Y
-Cordless drill: amzn.to/3D9ZiIm
-Brad nailer: amzn.to/3gsRkjH
-Mini Compressor: amzn.to/3mvrmQr
-Bladerunner: amzn.to/2Wl0TtJ
-Jig Saw: amzn.to/3zetTBY
-Scroll Saw: amzn.to/3gq9qDc
-Multi-Tool: amzn.to/3muZuMi
★SOME OF MY FAVORITE OTHER TOOLS★
-Drill Bits: amzn.to/3B8Ckzh
-Forstner Bits: amzn.to/3kk3wEI
-Shop Vacuum: amzn.to/2Wkqnbl
-Machine Setup Blocks: amzn.to/3gq7kDh
-Counter-Sink Bit: amzn.to/37ZukUo
-Featherboard: amzn.to/3DeqHsq
-ISOtunes Hearing Protection (Save $10): bit.ly/3BHYdH7
(If you use one of the affiliate links above, we may receive a small commission)

[@StumpyNubs]

▼EXPAND THIS SECTION FOR MORE RESOURCES RELATED TO THIS VIDEO▼ *Tools used in this video:* -CBN bench stones and hones: woodturnerswonders.com/collections/hones -Diamond bench stones and hones (Trend): amzn.to/3EMZD3b -CBN discs for Worksharp: woodturnerswonders.com/collections/cbn-discs-for-work-sharp -CBN wheels for Tormek: woodturnerswonders.com/collections/tormek-style-wheels -Diamond wheels for Tormek: amzn.to/3FUz1yB -CBN bench grinder wheels: woodturnerswonders.com/pages/cbn-wheels -Diamond bench grinder wheels: woodturnerswonders.com/collections/diamond-wheels *Links promised in this video:* -More sharpening videos on our website: stumpynubs.com/category/free-tutorials/sharpening/ -Subscribe to our e-Magazine: stumpynubs.com/browse-and-subscribe/ -Check out our project plans: stumpynubs.com/product-category/plans/ -Instagram: instagram.com/stumpynubs/ ★THIS VIDEO WAS MADE POSSIBLE BY★ Woodturners Wonders woodturnerswonders.com/ *Please help support us by using the link above for a quick look around!* (If you use one of these affiliate links, we may receive a small commission) ★SOME OF MY FAVORITE CHEAP TOOLS★ -123 Blocks: lddy.no/vpij -Mechanical Pencils: amzn.to/2PA7bwK -Lumber pencil: amzn.to/2QtwZjv -Pocket Measuring Tape: amzn.to/2kNTlI9 -Irwin Drill Bit Gauge: amzn.to/2AwTkQg -Nut/Bolt/Screw Gauge: amzn.to/2CuvxSK -Self-Centering Punch: amzn.to/2QvbcrC -Self-Centering Bits: amzn.to/2xs71UW -Angle Cube: lddy.no/10nam -Steel Ruler: lddy.no/10mv7 -Utility knife: amzn.to/3nfhIiv -Center-Finding Ruler: lddy.no/10nak -Bit & Blade Cleaner: amzn.to/2TfvEOI -Digital depth gauge: amzn.to/3mwRf2x -Wood Glue: amzn.to/3mqek6M -Spade Bits: amzn.to/3j8XPtD ★SOME OF MY FAVORITE HAND TOOLS★ -Digital Caliper: amzn.to/384H1Or -Marking Gauge: lddy.no/10muz -Marking knife: lddy.no/10mv0 -Narex Chisels: lddy.no/sqm3 -Stanley Sweetheart Chisels: amzn.to/3y5HDOc -Mini Pull Saw: amzn.to/2UEHBz6 -Gent Saw: lddy.no/ss2x -Coping saw: amzn.to/2W7ZiUS -Shinwa Rulers: lddy.no/zl13 ★SOME OF MY FAVORITE POWER TOOLS★ -Miter Saw: amzn.to/3gqIlQ8 -Jointer: amzn.to/3yc3gfZ -Planer: amzn.to/3mn6BGF -Router: amzn.to/3grD22S -Sander: amzn.to/3DdvD0Y -Cordless drill: amzn.to/3D9ZiIm -Brad nailer: amzn.to/3gsRkjH -Mini Compressor: amzn.to/3mvrmQr -Bladerunner: amzn.to/2Wl0TtJ -Jig Saw: amzn.to/3zetTBY -Scroll Saw: amzn.to/3gq9qDc -Multi-Tool: amzn.to/3muZuMi ★SOME OF MY FAVORITE OTHER TOOLS★ -Drill Bits: amzn.to/3B8Ckzh -Forstner Bits: amzn.to/3kk3wEI -Shop Vacuum: amzn.to/2Wkqnbl -Machine Setup Blocks: amzn.to/3gq7kDh -Counter-Sink Bit: amzn.to/37ZukUo -Featherboard: amzn.to/3DeqHsq -ISOtunes Hearing Protection (Save $10): bit.ly/3BHYdH7 (If you use one of the affiliate links above, we may receive a small commission)

[@glencrandall7051]

I never knew the difference between diamond and CBN. Now I think I understand the difference and also the difference in their use. I will change some of my sharpening technique. Thank you for educating. Have a great 2022 and stay safe.

[@jayscott306]

Seconded. I learned a lot of helpful little details and differences in this one.

[@rjones6219]

This guy is a great presenter. Clear, accurate, and does it smoothly. I bet he does it from knowledge and experience, rather than using a script.

[@WiscoWoodShop]

Well, James has done it again. Just a great teacher. This is yet another one that I would not have done the research to figure out, but you have knocked it out of the park. As always, your fans are grateful and we appreciate you being such a good teacher by being a lifelong learner.

[@henridejong9433]

How you share so much info within such a short period of time, without rushing is beyond me.... i can't wait for your next one

[@pauldevey8628]

I am a hobby machinist and love your channel. Your give fundamentals that cross many differen hobbies.

[@patcallaway9804]

I'm always amazed at how you come up with things I need to know. Keep up the good work!

[@DEtchells]

Another extraordinarily informative, clear and well-presented video. Thanks as always!

[@wes_d]

Very timely and informative…I’m looking at purchasing a sharpening system right now and this definitely helps.

[@SeanKelly1]

As always, great content with excellent pacing and delivery. Good level of detail without any pedantic tone Thanks!

[@michaelm077]

Thanks James, another simple to understand tutorial, Happy New Year and God Bless.

[@gordroberts53]

Hi James, I switched to CBN wheels to sharpen my lathe tools a year ago, I’ll never go back. One of the cautionary statements from the manufacturer surprised me though as it read “do not sharpen high carbon steel tools as this will clog the abrasive surface”. Happily I have another low speed grinder so moved my white wheels over. Now I sharpen my hand tools on white reserving the CBN for HSS only.

[@jimadams6159]

I have gained yet more knowledge. Always interesting and informative, thanks again for your continued great content.

[@adriancooper8192]

Thank you James for another outstanding tutorial.

[@olddawgdreaming5715]

Thanks for sharing with us James enjoy seeing you use the different sharpening systems. Stay safe, Fred

[@awldune]

I got a CBN wheel for my grinder this Christmas, very pleased with it so far!

[@isaacplaysbass8568]

Thank you James. I didn't know the subtle differences between the grinding/sharpening media, thank you.

[@deansawich6250]

Thanks for great video that gives the necessary information clearly. 😊

[@philipallard8026]

I just got cbn wheels for my work sharp from wood turning wonders based on your previous recommendation. They were easy to work with and the wheels are wonderful. Thanks for the tip. You’re always on target.

[@LewHarriman]

Fascinating and useful information. Thanks, James.

[@sapelesteve]

Very informative video SN! This is off topic but I wonder if you would do a video about knife sharpening at some point. I know that there are plenty of videos on that subject but the ones that I have watched never explain the differences between the various sharpening devices. I think that you would do a much better job! Thanks. 👍👍😉😉

[@dnngskn62]

Great one James. Really appreciate this info, was not up to speed on CBN stones or wheels.

[@MrSupahlovah]

I don't have a workshop, I never plan to do woodworking, but I can't get enough of the content. Thanks for all the entertainment, keep it up!

[@MikeB0001]

Ken at Woodturners wonders is a great guy to talk to. CBN wheels changed the game on turning tools. I use an1800rpm industrial 3ph 8" grinder with a VFD and I can change speeds and reverse the grinder. A whole new world. HNY!👍🏻👍🏻

[@profcah]

Great information James. Thanks as usual.

[@RogierYou]

Again a valuable lesson 👍

[@JW-mx3qg]

Very informative. Thanks for explaining the benefits of the 2, however I do prefer the longevity and what many pro old tradesmen are using for a long time diamonds do win in my opinion.

[@billdiehl156]

Great information! Thanks, James!

[@MCsCreations]

Really interesting indeed! Thanks, James! 😃 Stay safe there with your family! 🖖😊

[@jackthompson5092]

Great video. Happy new year.

[@johnrice6793]

You are quite a knowledgeable fellow. Thanks for the info - again.👍👍

[@agluebottle]

Nails, glues, and abrasives. This is the dope content we crave and Stumpy Nubs always delivers.

[@watermain48]

Very informative. Thanks James.

[@mauriceryton]

I really enjoy these educational videos. I had no idea, but l do now.

[@HDBoyWonder]

Excellent. Thank you.

[@dennystyles4324]

Thank Professor Nubs. Great information on grinding, sharpening choices.

[@rosevan5485]

Great informative video . Thanks !

[@joegarrison8611]

EXCELLENT info 👌 James. Just a suggestion - when you are breaking it down to the short strokes please list as you are talking. It doubles the delivery. Otherwise, an excellent, informative video backed with science and an experienced opinion that we have all come to highly value. Thanks 😊

[@AJ-ln4sm]

Good info, thanks James!

[@gregj2647]

I have a 180 grit cbn wheel (from Ken) on my slow speed grinder that I use to sharpen my turning tools. Makes a world of difference in turning over the old stone wheels.

[@m.a.r.services5720]

Always good info

[@worldtreedesign]

This is very helpful info!

[@TheOldManAndTheSaw]

Great video. Good info.

[@aurtisanminer2827]

Awesome breakdown! I’ve been wondering what the benefits of the CBN wheels are vs diamond.

[@robohippy]

Heavy emphasis on CBN wheels are for 'hardened' metals only! The life of a CBN wheel, for production work is about 5 years. I did take an old worn out one and purposely loaded it up with soft steel, aluminum, brass and copper. After a month of sharpening my lathe scrapers on it, the colors from the softer metals was gone. Lapping fluid can be applied to the bevel of the tool you are sharpening, and it can help lift the soft metal off of your grinding wheels. If you apply it directly to the wheel, you will get sprayed, and I found out the hard way..... They do sell very hard aluminum oxide sticks to also do the same thing. Diamond wheels on a Tormek or the various clones of it, can last pretty much forever. I use the CBN wheels from D Way since the owners are personal friends. I do like the heavier steel wheels, but you have to have a grinder that will drive them, 1/2 hp isn't enough.

[@1959WoodWorkingHobby]

Have a wonderful 2022 with great health and success!

[@MrStrujni]

Uou, nice and profi explanation! Thanks

[@robandsharonseddon-smith5216]

Seconding the recommendation for Woodturners Wonders. Great service and high quality products. So helpful if not sure which product is best for you too.

[@MrStrizver]

Most of this video made me think of the Sicilian in The Prince Bride trying to figure out which cup had the poison.

[@dtmelanson]

I’m not even a woodworker but I love these videos

[@asailijhijr]

I like that echoey crystal sound whenever you pick up the CBN block.

[@wolfman75]

Thanks for the info!!!!!😎👍

[@petersymons7817]

Thank you

[@J.A.Smith2397]

Great numbers on heat transferred!

[@mayberrywj]

Great info....thanks....:)

[@mramseyISU]

FWIW I used to work at a place that did a lot of gear grinding and we used the CBN wheels for every grinding operation.

[@Zenkai76]

People sharpening their tools like a pro, and here is me using dull tools, brute force, and swear words to get the job done.

[@criswilson1140]

I always wondered why I rarely see a diamond grinding wheel. Now I know why!

[@traveller9625]

Where the heck do you learn all this stuff, I have taken your advice many times and it has proved to be spot on

[@nobuckle40]

I recently purchased the Trend 300/1000 grit diamond plate that you like to use. I'm still getting used to it. At the moment, it's the only diamond plate that I own. I'm glad I bought it and your tutorials helped me make that decision. Although, I still don't know how to use the eraser that cam with it.

[@StumpyNubs]

The eraser is used to clean the stone when it gets a little clogged with metal dust. Just rub it on the surface. It will be shiny and new again.

[@nobuckle40]

@@StumpyNubs I wondered if that's that way it was, but wasn't sure. Thanks James.

[@glasblaidd]

Professor Hamilton strikes again cheers mate

[@MrHanowski]

Great video explaining the difference between CBN and DIAMOND grinding wheels. So, my application is sharpening non-carbide chainsaw chain. Which is better here? Price is about the same, so thought diamond would be better. Guessing you will say CBN is better here due to lower grind temps at the higher grind speeds? If so, can you please recommend a supplier of CBN grind wheels for my chainsaw grinder? Thanks again for the good explanation!

[@Reaper6973]

This reminds me of the Iocane Powder scene in The Princess Bride... "I clearly can't choose the diamond sharpener in front of you!"

[@tmr0806]

I love your site and I've learned a lot from your videos. I did some spindle turning many years ago (made a couple chess sets) and now I'm about to get back into wood turning, and probably some bowl turning. I need some advice on what I should get in the way of sharpening apparatus for sharpening HSS bowl gouges. I'm looking at the Tormek T800, and the SVD 186R gouge jig, but wondering if the included stone is what I need, or if I need to consider a diamond stone. I'm also unclear on whether the included stone is CBN or something else. I question whether it's smart to use the included tool to adjust the grit from 200 to 1000, because I suppose going back and forth would wear the stone prematurely. Do people typically have different stones and routinely change them? Or is initial grinding done at 200 grit, then convert the stone to 1000 grit thereafter. I'm a bit confused and don't want to spend buy something if it's not what I need. Thanks for any advice.

[@StumpyNubs]

The regular stone (it is a manmade water stone, not CBN) works perfectly well. Using the stone grater to change the grit doesn't wear it much at all. It mostly burnishes the surface. You can do it as often as you like, with as much pressure as you like and it will last for many years, perhaps decades in a hobby-level shop. The diamond wheels are extremely convenient (and the coarse one is really nice for excess grinding), but for day to day use you will be very happy with the stock wheel.

[@CunninghamFurniture]

Awsome!

[@bloke875]

hello James, well said and easily understood. If I may ask an auxiliary question regarding CBN wheels. What is the optimum shaft speed for an 8” can wheel? I have two grinders 2800 rpm & 1400 rpm so I am undecided which to use. I have the capacity to build a variable speed control unit, but lack the ultimate speed team for. Thanks

[@StumpyNubs]

Most slow speed grinders used for sharpening are about 1750 RPM.

[@JoeC92]

One place I find diamond and Cbn won't replace in sharpening is when you want that mirror edge. I know the diamond films can do it or CBN pastes on strops. But there's something about a chosera whetstone polished edge it always comes out nicer and better. Great video though, lots of great points for those that don't know a lot about sharpening yet or just getting into it. I have a bit of each, diamond, CBN and chosera.

[@StumpyNubs]

I grind with CBN to fix or reshape an edge. I sharpen with fine grit diamonds (either on the Tormek or by hand). Then I strop on leather with paste. I don't believe CBN or Diamonds are really intended to give you a mirror edge on their own.

[@JoeC92]

@@StumpyNubs sort of. When you consider some offer 1500-1800 grit, where a 1800grit chosera is pretty nicely polished there. Obviously going higher can get better. Those stropping films you can get to put on glass or granite are diamond based usually. And I have Cbn pastes to put on leather strop that can give a mirror edge. Both can do it. It's just a nicer edge with chosera. Maybe looking at it more from the knife world with sharpening systems only using diamond stones and getting to a mirror finish. It's doable just not as nice.

[@gregparrott]

@@JoeC92 There's a KZbin channel (out of Japan?) where the presenter hand sharpens knives. He works through a range of 5 or 6 grits. The finest is something astronomical - like 6000. It's overkill until he slices loosely held sheets of paper with nearly zero force. The edge is likely sharper than a surgeon's diamond scalpel.

[@JoeC92]

@@gregparrott virtuovice or something like that if that's who you mean. I know exactly who you're talking about. I learned a lot about hand sharpening from him. He's a big fan of bark River knives Highest grip I have is 8000. On a Japanese style kitchen knife it finishes it off with an incredible edge.

[@criswilson1140]

@@gregparrott I finish my straight razors with a shapton 30,000 so 6000 is a bit rough 🙂

[@schleifjunkieshannsplag8635]

even though we won't agree on everything you say, great post. Above all, completely unagitated and clearly formulated. I am totally committed to CBN as I cannot dictate or control the pressure my customers use when grinding. Therefore, CBN wheels and plates are the better choice for me.

[@paulgajewski5926]

Very interesting and informative, once again well done. Do you sharpen your router bits by hand?

[@StumpyNubs]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/pWWkpaWEjbdof9k

[@paulgajewski5926]

@@StumpyNubs thanks

[@kaasmeester5903]

Every time I see you use that Tormek, I am that much closer to giving in and buying one...

[@DKWalser]

Do it! I have had my Tormek for close to 15 years. It has been one of my best tool purchases. (It now has a CBN wheel on it from Ken Rizza at WoodTurners Wonders. Much faster and less messy than the original wheel.)

[@kaasmeester5903]

@@DKWalser I'm sure I will at some point once my workshop finally gets built and I have some space. For now I make do with a Veritas sharpening jig and diamond plates, it works well enough.

[@mariushegli]

I have nothing to say really, but I appreciate your content, and wish to help with the yt-algorithms.

[@Hungrybird474]

I agree with letting the diamonds do the work with light pressure . They have a nice feel imo . Trying some Venev 400/800 so far and a 150/240 is coming but it’s not an “f” ursa stone . The 400/800 Venev ursa did more of a polish finish with finer scratched than the 600 grit diamond . Seemed to work well though .

[@bobonysko3167]

Where can I purchase cbn stones?

[@inurspace]

Is there a way of telling if a diamond stone is "blunt"? The only diamond stone I have came from a tool sale and looked well used. Seems to work ok, but I'm not sure if it is doing a good or bad job.

[@soylentgreen326]

CBN on your worksharpe 🤔great idea.

[@casperj.b.1705]

Hi where do you buy the work sharp machine? Cannot find it in the site with the discs for it.

[@StumpyNubs]

Worksharp machine: amzn.to/3eXTuXs CBN discs for Worksharp: woodturnerswonders.com/collections/cbn-discs-for-work-sharp

[@mytech6779]

In addition to the carbon absorption problem with grinding iron at high speed, diamonds soften much more with heat compared to cBN which greatly closes the hardness gap.

[@charleshirst6220]

A question: I use a honing guide which has a brass roller (some brands of guide use a steel roller) that runs on the surface of my stone. Will this roller damage the diamond or CBN hand sharpening plates?

[@StumpyNubs]

No

[@myronswenson8911]

What grit would suggest for a diamond wheel on the tormek. I have a set of diamond plates so the wheel would be used for redoing a primary bevel and flattening backs. Mostly chisels and plane irons?

[@StumpyNubs]

If you are planning to use it for heavier grinding and not honing, get the coarse wheel. I think it's 360.

[@myronswenson8911]

@@StumpyNubs Thanks, I’ve been watching your videos for ten years and early ones were good, I liked the humor, but the current ones are better.

[@DKWalser]

Given what you'll be using the wheel for, I would go with the 600 grit diamond wheel. For most of your sharpening needs, it will do all you need. And, if you use the honing wheel, you may not need to use your bench stones at all. But, if you're going to use a bench stone to put on a secondary (or even a tertiary) bevel, there would be no need to hone the primary bevel produced by the 600 grit wheel.

[@ejholbs3730]

I may get some for my Work Sharp 3000.

[@terrmaso]

I have just recently added hand planes and block planes to my inventory. Sharpening was a major cost at set-up and kept me from using them. I picked up the system Taytools offers with PSA Sharpening grits and float glass. Do you have experience or recommendations when using a system like this?

[@StumpyNubs]

I used something similar for a long time. It will work just fine, and is cheaper to get started. But it will add up over time as you go through sandpaper. If it works for you, stick with it. Results are what matter most :)

[@terrmaso]

@@StumpyNubs Thank you for the feedback. I truly appreciate it 👍 I will probably expand my my sharpening system over time.

[@issuma8223]

Do you recommend CBN engagement rings?

[@johnmetzger7185]

You mention low speed grinders and sharpeners - what RPM's are appropriate? Examples: My Vertical Sharpener turns at 160 rpm (the supply motor is 3450 rpm) and my Horizontal Sharpener (an older Woodcraft) uses a 7" stone at 420 RPM - both are water-emersion. I have 400, 600, 800 grit abrasive stones as well as an assortment of water stones and Diamond plates for manual work. I like the concept of CBN stones as they seem low maintenance - can these be used as water-bath stones?? Finally, what are your thoughts for belt grinders for sharpening?? Belt Width?? Belt Length?? Abrasive Materials and Grits?? Many thanks for sharing your knowledge and research!!

[@StumpyNubs]

-Slow speed grinders are about 1750 RPM. -You can use CBN in water if you add an anti-corrosion treatment (same as with diamond wheels.) -I don't sharpen with belt grinders, personally.

[@davimars1]

I bought a CBN wheel for sharpening my lathe tools. Love it!. One of the warnings with the wheel I bought was to use it to sharpen High Speed Steel only. Carbon steel would gum it up like aluminum on a standard wheel. True or false? Does anyone have a definite answer?

[@robandsharonseddon-smith5216]

Never dared risk it myself. Also interested in the answer

[@skeeterd5150]

The danger with gumming up abrasive wheels is expanding the wheel with that heated material making it explode. I don’t think there is a risk with these wheel as it is metal wheel with the abrasives applied to the exterior only.

[@StumpyNubs]

Soft steel will clog up the grit and ruin the wheel. I use a regular old grinding wheel for lawnmower blades, etc. CBN is for hardened tool steel. That said, woodturnerswonders.com has a product called a Wonderstick that they say will prevent a CBN wheel from clogging (I think). You should check it out.

[@ripntearslayer9101]

Do you use the strop after grinding at all?

[@StumpyNubs]

Grind-Hone-Strop. That's the process, in that order.

[@therelaxingwoodshop7495]

Sorry to say this but it is always a struggle for me to sharpen my tools. But I know it’s a must

[@LongGun223]

I've watched countless videos and tried the techniques, but have moderate success. 🙄

[@therelaxingwoodshop7495]

@@LongGun223 agree totally

[@bseant420]

lol i used to think the same thing and i just ended up buying 5 bucks worth of crappy chisels and plane irons and just practiced until i got the hang of it. that's all it is "just practice" lol good luck. dont give up.

[@therelaxingwoodshop7495]

@@bseant420 thanks , will keep sharp 😀

[@madtitan9639]

Does one kind have a more consistent grit size than the other? I have an "extra extra fine" diamond stone that has much larger chunks than the stated grit, making it basically useless. I read, is that's just a limitation of sizing diamond grit.

[@StumpyNubs]

A quality stone should have consistent grit. While there may be some finer dust in there, there should be no larger chunks than the grit demands.

[@darbywilliamson6957]

How much pressure would you recommend for sharpening

[@StumpyNubs]

If your fingertips are turning white, you're pressing too hard

[@jerryhuber3653]

You should make a tutorial on how to break in new diamond stones. I have a brand new set that I intend to break in with an old junky kitchen knife, but not entirely sure how I’ll know when the stones are broken in properly.

[@StumpyNubs]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/fpvUXpx_Zr-oh6s

[@17931793248650]

Now we just need to wait for Lonsdaleite stones. Maybe those will be better.

[@stevenrayhoward]

Many thanks! I've been on the edge of allocating the funds for a CBN wheel for my grinder... lack of knowledge to make the decision. I'm now ready. James, are you able to suggest a good vendor? Perhaps not a large corp. - I prefer to support a quality product from a family company. Thanks.

[@StumpyNubs]

Here is a more comprehensive tutorial about CBN wheels, specifically. kzbin.info/www/bejne/f4C7iZyGgJZ_atU

[@stevenrayhoward]

@@StumpyNubs Perfect! Thank you very much for your prompt reply (it is very much appreciated)! -- Woodprobie

[@wojciechturek1601]

I never thought about none of them

[@ComfortablyNumb1969]

I've watched most, if not all of your videos about tool sharpening, and have a question. When do you use the water bath thingy on the Tormek? Is it for either wheel or only the diamond wheels?

[@StumpyNubs]

It is for all Tormek wheels. However, I personally only fill it when I use a regular wheel (or the Japanese water stone wheel). The diamond wheels require an anti-corrosion solution. Rather than putting the whole bottle in the machine and dirtying it all up, I just keep some in a spray bottle and keep the wheel wet as I sharpen. Works for me, but I don't think that is officially sanctioned ;)

[@ComfortablyNumb1969]

@@StumpyNubs I saw sparks flying on what I assumed was the CBN wheels. So I assumed it was dry. Is water optional or required with CBN?

[@ComfortablyNumb1969]

@@StumpyNubs LOL, duh I now see where the CBN wheels have the word Waterless in the description.

[@Cenedd]

It's worth pointing out that grinding carbide produces a dust that is hazardous so extraction and a respirator should be used. It would be interesting to try to quantify how much pressure is too much on a diamond plate. Are we talking some but don't push really hard or are we talking enough to keep it in contact but no more?

[@StumpyNubs]

If your fingertips are turning white, you are pressing too hard.

[@Cenedd]

@@StumpyNubs Thanks James. So fairly light but not just in-contact with no pressure? Sorry, I'm confusing fingernails starting to turn white (very gentle pressure) with finger tips (harder to see but a bit more pressure). Reason I'm keen to get it right is that I suspect I've probably damaged some early cheap plates and am keen not to repeat on better ones......and I should have followed your advise and gone for the Narex chisels and not the red/yellow Irwin Marple that need sooooo much work to make the back flat (and I mean the tip, I'm not confusing a hollow ground back).

[@bseant420]

anybody try one of these cbn wheels on a wen (tormek knockoff) wet sharpener?

[@davebashford3753]

Is occasional use of CBN on mild steel OK? I use my coarse aluminum oxide wheel for deburring and minor shaping of mild steel, would that damage a CBN wheel?

[@MikeB0001]

No..you will destroy the wheel by plugging it up.

[@StumpyNubs]

WoodTurnerswonders.com has a lubricant called "Wonderstick" that they say may solve that problem. I only use mine for hardened steel. If I want to grind a lawnmower blade, that's what the cheap wheels are for.

[@MikeB0001]

@@StumpyNubs even the wonderstick wont save a CBN wheel plugged up with mild steel.😃

[@davebashford3753]

Mild steel isn't that great on aluminum oxide either, so I'm not surprised by your answers. I should use my belt sander instead. Just lazy.

[@johnoerter2883]

@@StumpyNubs I talked with Ken - he’s GREAT - he said to avoid soft steel as it clogs the CBN. He mentioned PB Blaster and wire brush to unclog … also check his video on Sllickstick and grinding copper.

[@drjoshuamc]

What is the “guide” or “jig” that you are resting the chisel on to sharpen with the wheel called?

[@StumpyNubs]

Which wheel? The bench grinder? That's the part of the larger Kodiak jig system. However you can also get it as a standalone tool rest. I love it because it has angle stops, and because the big surface dissipates heat. woodturnerswonders.com/collections/grinding-wheel-accessories/products/stand-alone-tool-rest

[@drjoshuamc]

@@StumpyNubs thank you so much for the quick reply

[@michaelnorris4629]

How much pressure will damage a diamond surface?

[@StumpyNubs]

If your fingertips are turning all white, you are pushing too hard.

[@equesdeventusoccasus]

The question I have is, when I use my wood carving tools, I usually polish them on a cotton wheel with rouge. Should I use the same approach for knife sharpening? It has never failed me in 35 years of wood carving as a hobby. Yet I only recently thought about trying it on my straight blade high carbon steel knife.

[@StumpyNubs]

As you know, wood carving tools must be RAZOR sharp. Anything that works for them will surely work for a knife, in my opinion.

[@equesdeventusoccasus]

@@StumpyNubs I learned wood carving and antique furniture reproduction from a Welshman many years ago. He was a very calm fellow until he saw me with a spoon-bit gouge in one hand and a sharpening stone in the other. He literally shrieked then said, "Carving tools are polished, never sharpened." It is a lesson I never forgot.

[@1014p]

Those are some nice looking grinding wheels. Sure the dollars add up on them.