When it comes to the tools you have, careful care is a must. This not only applies to our tools, but the tools we use to keep our tools in shape as well!
It can really begin to seem like a never-ending spiral sometimes, but don’t worry! Just a simple oil can help to keep your sharpening stone in the best shape possible while providing great sharpening abilities.
Continue on and you’ll learn about your options for finding the best sharpening stone oil. We’ll also take a look into what kinds of oils you should avoid, so you don’t accidentally get into a situation where you’ll have to replace the stone.
Related Reading: Shapton Pro Sharpening Stone Series Reviewed
What is a Sharpening Stone?
Many of us use knives on a day-to-day basis in our kitchen. Additionally, we may use things like scissors, razors, scythes and other tools either at home or work.
Over time, these items can become dull with use, which can result in them failing to work as well.
Because of this, it’s often necessary to use a sharpening stone for keeping your sharp tools in good shape.
They are made from a variety of materials and can help you to get the longest possible lifespans from your tools, which ultimately saves you money.
Getting the Best From Your Sharpening Stone
There are a few things to keep in mind when it comes to getting the most from your sharpening stone.
This can include choosing the right stone material and shape for the tools you’ll need to sharpen. One of the aspects you’ll also need to consider when choosing a stone is the grit size.
Furthermore, you’ll need to use your stone in the most efficient way.
Typically, this includes some kind of lubrication. While these stones can be used with water, many prefer to use some kind of oil in order to allow them to function well.
What Determines the Best Oil to Use?
Often, it’s a good idea to consider the kind of sharpening stone you have when choosing an oil.
Some kinds of stone will work better with stones like Crystolon, Arkansas and more. In other cases, you may be able to use other oil types or simply water.
Make sure to find out what works best for the stone you have.
Best Oils for Sharpening Stones
Many people choose to use specialized honing oils for their sharpening stone needs.
These oils are typically made with a mineral oil that has been refined to high standards and is made specifically for use with sharpening stones, and it does a great job at it.
You can find some less specific options out there like oil for sewing machines or universal purposes that will also work well.
When you’re looking at these options, you’ll want to make sure that oil is free from resin and low in viscosity levels.
Typically, it’s going to be better to find something that is specified to work with sharpening stones.
Keep in mind that while some kinds of oil may seem convenient, they may have negative effects, such as leaving your stone smelling extremely unpleasant.
For most, this can require them to purchase a new stone.
Working With Water
If you shop around, you may be able to find some modern stone options that work well with water alone.
This can often be a more suitable choice because it lowers the risk of your stone picking up that horrible smell, and it will also be able to dry off more easily when not in use.
In addition, this keeps you from having to purchase extra products for the sake of using your sharpening stone.
Water is abundant, easy to find and free in most cases. Because of that, it’s the ideal substance to use for your sharpening stone if you can.
Oils You Should Not Use for Sharpening Stones
Some oils that you can use, but shouldn’t include things like olive oil and motor oil.
While they might work for the purposes you need, these are oils that will result in your sharpening stone smelling horribly.
Because of that, they aren’t the ideal options.
Meanwhile, options like linseed oil will result in the pores of your stone becoming clogged, which is not what you want with a sharpening stone.
These kinds of oils can be extremely difficult and time-consuming to remove, which can result in some serious frustration.
Aside from that, oils that have higher levels of viscosity may seem appealing, but they simply won’t work well.
They will cause your sharpening stone to stink and can create stains that leave it looking unappealing.
Like linseed oil, these can also be very difficult to remove from your stone when needed.
It’s really going to be very important to make sure to use the right kind of oil!
