Common Myths About Flattening Diamond Plates & Nagura Stones I Stopped Believing

As a cutlery sharpener and self-proclaimed Japanese waterstone purist, I often find myself in heated discussions about the tools of our trade. Over the years, I've encountered a plethora of myths and misconceptions, especially about diamond plates and nagura stones. These tools are essential in my workshop, yet the misinformation surrounding them can lead even the most seasoned artisan astray. Today, I want to share my journey of debunking some of these myths and offer my genuine insights.

Myth #1: Diamond Plates Never Need Flattening

This myth used to baffle me. I bought my first diamond plate thinking it was a hassle-free solution. A friend assured me that once I owned one, I wouldn't need to think about flattening again. Well, after several months of sharpening, I noticed my edges weren't as crisp. It turns out, diamond plates do wear down unevenly, especially if used on various stones or with inconsistent pressure.

After some research and experiments, I learned that even diamond plates require occasional flattening. A simple solution is to use a flat, hard surface—like a piece of granite or a thick glass plate. Here’s how I do it:

1. Apply a bit of water on the surface.
2. Rub the diamond plate in a figure-eight motion against the surface for about 5-10 minutes.
3. Check for flatness using a straightedge.

This process keeps my plates in top shape, ensuring I get the performance I paid for.

Myth #2: Nagura Stones Are Just for Polishing

When I first dabbled in nagura stones, I viewed them merely as a polishing tool. I would use them at the end of my sharpening process, thinking they were just there to create a slurry. But in reality, nagura stones play a multifaceted role in sharpening.

Nagura stones can help in two primary ways:

1. Creating a Slurry: This is the most common use. The slurry helps in refining the edge and can enhance the cutting ability of your waterstone.
2. Cleaning the Surface: When you're sharpening on a waterstone, nagura stones can be used to clean off the surface of the stone, allowing for a more even sharpening experience.

Now, I use nagura stones actively during sharpening, not just at the end. They allow me to maintain the stone's surface and produce a more refined edge.

Myth #3: All Diamond Plates Are the Same

As I explored different brands and types of diamond plates, I quickly realized this myth was far from the truth. I initially thought a diamond plate was a diamond plate, but the differences can be dramatic.

Here’s a breakdown of the key factors to consider when choosing a diamond plate:

Brand	Grit Size	Size	Price (USD)	Durability	Texture
DMT	300, 600, 1200	8" x 3"	$50 - $75	High	Coarse to Fine
Atoma	400, 600, 1200	5" x 2"	$60 - $85	Very High	Uniform
Shapton	200, 1000	7" x 3"	$45 - $65	Medium	Rough

I’ve found that investing in a high-quality diamond plate pays off in the long run. The material, grit progression, and durability can significantly impact your sharpening experience.

Myth #4: Nagura Stones Are Universal

I once believed that any nagura stone could be used with any waterstone. This was a costly mistake. The compatibility between nagura stones and waterstones can influence the sharpening results.

For instance, a harder nagura stone may not produce enough slurry on a softer waterstone, while a softer nagura could break down too quickly on a harder stone.

I recommend doing thorough research or even reaching out to fellow artisans. I often refer to the following pairings:

• Aoto Nagura with Aoto Waterstone
• Tenjyou Nagura with Shapton Pro Series

By using compatible pairs, I’ve seen a noticeable improvement in my sharpening efficiency and edge quality.

Myth #5: You Don’t Need to Maintain Nagura Stones

I neglected my nagura stones for far too long, thinking they were low maintenance. What I discovered was shocking. Just like my waterstones, nagura stones also need routine care. I realized that a dirty nagura stone can negatively impact the quality of the slurry and, subsequently, the sharpening process. To maintain my nagura stones, I wash them with warm water and a soft brush after each use. This helps to keep the surface clean and ensures consistent performance. I also recommend periodically flattening them, especially if you notice uneven wear.

Final Thoughts

As I continue to sharpen blades in my workshop, I’m grateful for the lessons these tools have taught me. Diamond plates and nagura stones are essential components of the sharpening process, but they require proper understanding and maintenance. By stopping believing these myths, I’ve improved not only my sharpening skills but also the quality of the edges I produce. I hope my experiences resonate with fellow artisans and hobbyists alike. Let’s continue to share knowledge and craft our skills together!