Replies

1. 
   DonStephan | May 25, 2002 09:40pm | #1

   Just bought some water stones from Japan Tool? Their instructions advise not storing fine water stones in water. I would suggest you follow the guidelines of your supplier, in case a problem arises.

2. 
   Alan | May 26, 2002 02:13am | #2

   Kevin,

   And now the other side.

   I store all my waterstones in water (a rectangular tupperware container).  I've had absolutely no problems in the twenty or so years I've been doing so.  In fact, the 4000 and 6000 stones I use now have been soaking in water for at least ten years--probably longer  (those hard stones just don't seem to want to wear out).

   I, for one, find the polishing stones work better after they've been soaked with water:  the nagura stone works up more paste and I don't have to spray water on them quite so much.  Even so, if I wish, the stones will get quite dry for those last few strokes.

   Though I'm no expert, I assume that the same advice applies to the fine grit stones as it does to coarser stones:  once saturated, don't let them dry out.  That's one reason I keep all my stones in water.

   Alan

3. 
   Azeddie | May 27, 2002 03:23am | #3

   I agree with AL...I always store mine in water all the time. my grit goes up to 8000

   no problems after many yrs

4. 
   jeffn7 | May 28, 2002 01:57am | #4

   store mine in water... if I recall correctly, the notecard that came with my king stone advised storing in water.