Need some help determining what kind of stone I have.

[seelow123]

Hey everyone.

So I normally use an Edge Pro Apex for all my sharpening but recently got kind of interested in increasing my freehand abilities. I've had this large stone for a few years now (It was my grandpa's until he passed) and it's been used quite a bit so I would like to clean it but I'm not quite sure what kind of stone it is and whether it would be best to use oil or water on it after it's clean. I looks like a natural stone to me just by looking at the sides but I'm far from an expert, which is why I'm asking you gents.









I'd appreciate any help you guys can give me.

 

[HeavyHanded]

Looks to me like an aluminum oxide combination stone, manufactured. I'd use oil on it. For clean-up I'd actually just work some oil into it till there's some pooling on the surface, let it sit for a bit, add a little more oil and rub it with a fingertip. I'd bet most of the impacted swarf will float free. Looks like its in pretty good shape.

 

[hammon172]

It looks like a bonded oil stone to me. One course one medium side. You could use some degreaser. To help clean it up. Maybe boil it also. That's how I clean my stones when they get really discolored like in your first photo. As far as what brand it is its hard to say.

 

[OHALLUM]

I think HH pretty much nailed it on what it is and how to use it. If the stone really needs cleaning, spray some WD40 on it and scrub with an old toothbrush or similar brush to clean it up a bit. It really probably does not even need that as it looks to be in good condition. Looks like your Grandpa took good care of it. It should give you years of good use.

Blessings,

Omar