I am the same way sir........pretty much if I can't make it, it's not needed. The only things I have are a vise of course and Steve's Artisan, what is YMMV please?
Like Mr.JJ says the 116 and 50.......and I recently got the Bulldozer from Steve and after getting the hang of using it..............works pretty slick, I use cutting lube to. 50% hydraulic oil,50% diesel fuel. paps
I thought you just wanted something to practice on that was easier than s.s...........no they wouldn't wear I don't think, kinda heavy. Try Speedy Metals.com for some bronze/brass, all different kinds of s.s. too. Sorry about my confusion..........its happening pretty fast. paps
until you get your solid lap, just use the .5" blocks from Uncle Steve and do it by hand.......it just takes a little longer. How far does lap stick up above that strainer table when its set up?
Jen........do you use a wet paper towel as your grind thee glass to do two things, 1 reduces airborn glass particles and 2 really helps the surface to gring faster and cleaner..........you'll see a big difference
you have what is refered to in the sharpening world as an "interrupted sharpening surface" Meaning its not 100% covered in carbide. I would stay away from sharpening burins on you nice platen. blades, chisels ect o.k. but the small diameters will chew up the high spots and dig out the low...