DMT dotted vs continous surface hones. What's the difference?

[Brian6244]

What's the difference between the dotted and continuous-surface DMT hones? What's the advantage/disdvatage of one type over the other. I have course, fine and extra-fine, small, 4" continuous surface DMT hones and I love them. They work wonders on my S30V blades. I like these little 4" continuous surface DMT hones so much that I really want a set of larger ones, but the continuous-surface DMT hones can get quite pricey once you add up the price owning 3 or four of them in various grits. This has me wondering if the dotted versions are just as good, or if they will just leave me wanting more, since I'm already thrilled with the performance of my 4" continuous-surface DMT diamond hones. How do the dotted DMT diamond hones compare to their continuous-surface brothers?

 

[Mtn Hawk]

Here's what DMT has to say about it:
http://www.dmtsharp.com/general/surfaces.htm

Personally, I'd go with the continuous-surface to get more surface area and just clean it off periodically when sharpening, as with any hone.

Do your diamond hones last as long as other types?

 

[Brian6244]

In the years that I have had my three DMT hones many natural and ceramic stones have come and gone. All the while my DMT hones are still going strong. One thing to note, however, is that I never use them for reprofiling. I prefer sandpaper and/or metal files for that type of work.