Thread: DMT 325 or 600

Looking at getting the DMT 325x Dia sharp for my Norton stones, which is 4"x10" for $90. Economically, I would prefer the 600 which is 3"x8", for $52. Which do most of you prefer? I assume the 600 will still do the job, although maybe a bit slower. For just maintaining a flat surface, will the 600 not do just fine, or should I stick with the 325?

Get the 325 DMT in 3x8" size. The fine will wear out faster, will stick to the hone more, and DMT doesn't recommend it for lapping in general. For flattening normal waterstones, imo the 325 is totally enough.

Originally Posted by jeness

Get the 325 DMT in 3x8" size. The fine will wear out faster, will stick to the hone more, and DMT doesn't recommend it for lapping in general. For flattening normal waterstones, imo the 325 is totally enough.

I would like to get the 325 in 3"x8", but the place that I can get them here, only has them in 4x10" for $90. Otherwise, I would probably have to get them to order me one.

Ask them if they can get you one in 3x8" size, maybe they won't charge extra money for it. If they won't get you one, I would go with the 4x10" size 325, I find the 600 DMT too fine for lapping. Or try to buy a duosharp from eBay, maybe that will be still cheaper than the 90$ big diasharp.

Correct the 3" x 8" is easier to hold in your hand when lapping stones. You can lay the big plate down however. DMT was out of stock on the 325 coarse grit prior to the holidays. I got the Extra coarse Dia-Sharp. It will lap stone even faster.
MIke

Scaredstraight.....it sounds like you're going through Lee Valley.

The price of the 3x8 DMT 325 is about $46 US, but the shipping can be a killer because of the weight. The DMT 35 in the 3x8 is not possible to find in Canada.

My recommendation is that if you know someone from the States or that lives on the border, get it shipped to them, and then have pick it up or have them bring it across.

Otherwise it's the 4x10 for you.

I have the 4x10 and it works well for lapping. I just lay it in the bottom of the sink and then rub the hone on it. I am thinking about getting the 1200, as the 325 is leaving big scratches on one of my harder slate hones.

The 325 for sure. If you can't get the 3x8" as stated above, get the 4x10".

+1 to what has already been stated. I have both and use them on my Nortons. The 325 is best. Start with the 8K and then proceed to the larger grit sizes. I sometimes use the finer diamond to refine the surface of my 4k and 8K or to make a little slurry, but the 325 is the go to for lapping.