Another "Arkansas" Q

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Fredde90210

Joined
May 14, 2010
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Is the Arkansas translucent novaculite something between the Spyderco fine and ultra fine? Or is it "just" like the fine?
 
Sort of like comparing apples and oranges. Arkansas stones (novaculite) aren't nearly as hard or aggressive as the ceramics used in the Spyderco hones, and the particle/grain size & shape are different also (ceramic particles are usually more acute/hard-edged, so they cut more aggressively). The hard Arkansas stones (translucent or black hard) are known and liked for their polishing abilities. But the difference in aggressiveness means that some steels won't respond to them as easily or quickly as on ceramic hones. Sometimes that's a good thing, though, because the less-aggressive polishing of a hard Arkansas makes avoiding burrs a bit easier. Ceramics are well-known for creating burrs or wire edges more easily, because they are so hard, and demand an extremely light touch.

Either one could theoretically produce a similar finish on an edge. But the difference is in how quickly or easily it gets there, and if other issues (like burrs) are created or avoided in the process.
 
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Fredde90210 said:
Wow fast and instructive reply, thx :-)
Click to expand...

That's my impression of the differences, as I view them anyway. I'm betting others will contribute their thoughts here also. Some others here spend a lot more time with Arkansas stones than I have, but I've been getting a little more acquainted with them lately. :)
 
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Yes, agreed, they are close to the same grit (Arkansas Translucent and Spyderco fine) in name only. Around 1000-1100 grit. As natural grits grain structures are different and they cut different than a man made stone. More polish. They are also more forgiving during sharpening. So, it depends on what your wanting to do to the edge. Sure the man made ceramic stone will cut quicker but that may not be what one wants to do at 1000 grit. You may want to refine the edge a little then leave it. Both will leave a very nice sharp edge. I think there is room for either sharpening strategy. Plus, if you want the Arkansas to cut faster just
add some diamond slurry to the stones surface. DM
 
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