Sharpening Oil

A

ASBOB

Joined
Feb 8, 2008
Messages
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I just got a set of stones and am learning to sharpen. With the kit was a can of Norton Sharpening Stone Oil. On the side of the can it says "highly refined mineral oil".

My question: is this any different from the USP mineral oil I bought in the pharmacy for my 1095 blades? Is the Norton more refined, a better product for my uses. or the same thing?

Basically, when I use it up, should I get another can, or can I start using the generic?

My thanks.
 
It's probably thinner than the drugstore oil.
I wouldn't use it at all. I prefer a squirt of WD 40 on my stones. Very coarse/porous stones may need a heavier oil, but Arkansas/India/diamond stones do very well with WD 40, or even used dry.
 
The boatbuilder I apprenticed under has used spit to lube his Arkansas stones for over 30 years.
They still work beautifully.
I've been using spit for over a decade and I can still quickly get a mirror finish on my chisels and plane blades.
The best thing about spit is nobody wants to use your stones!:)
Occasionally I try to make the change to oil but it's not worth the hassle in my trade - residuals can create problems for gluing, cleanliness, etc.
 
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