SBS Triple Diamond Sharpening Stone Set – Side By Side

How do I break in my SBS Diamond Sharpening Stone?

When your SBS Triple Diamond Stone is brand new, it can feel more aggressive than expected, even on the finer plate. That initial “grabbier” feel is normal.

During manufacturing, most diamond particles are locked into the nickel layer, but a small number can sit slightly higher on the surface (typically around 70% embedded overall). Early sharpening naturally removes these high points.

In this short break-in period, cutting speed can feel very fast. After a few sessions, the surface settles, feedback becomes smoother, and each plate behaves more consistently with its intended grit.

What type of diamond: monocrystalline or polycrystalline?

The SBS Diamond Bench Stone uses premium monocrystalline diamond across its plates.

Monocrystalline diamond is a single-crystal abrasive, which generally holds up longer under use and maintains steady cutting performance. The result is more consistent feedback and durability over time — especially useful in a side-by-side system that’s meant to stay predictable across multiple grits.

Polycrystalline diamond is made from clusters of tiny crystals. It can fracture more easily, sometimes exposing fresh sharp edges, but it typically wears down faster and can feel less uniform as the abrasive structure breaks apart.

For long-term stability and repeatable results from coarse through fine, monocrystalline diamond is the preferred choice.

I’m seeing faint scratches on the 1200 grit plate. What causes that?

This usually comes down to cross-contamination between grits, and it’s most common during the early break-in phase.

If you move from a coarser plate to the fine plate without wiping the blade, coarse diamond particles (for example from the 300 grit surface) can remain on the tool. Those particles can then sit between the blade and the finer plate, leaving light scratch marks.

These marks are cosmetic and won’t affect performance or stone life. A quick wipe between grit changes prevents the issue.

How can the SBS be guaranteed for 10 years?

Because it’s designed to be renewed, not replaced.

When a diamond plate reaches the end of its working life, it’s typically only the top portion of the surface (often under 20 thou) that’s worn. Rather than discarding the entire assembly, the worn plate can be removed and replaced by the owner.

Replacement diamond plates are supplied with clear instructions, free of charge. The changeover usually takes less than 30 minutes, and we recommend weighting the surface overnight for best adhesion.

Designed to last. Designed to be renewed.

Will extra pressure make sharpening faster?

Short answer: no.

Diamond plates don’t cut faster with more force. Excess pressure can stress the nickel bond and increase the chance of pulling diamond particles from the surface.

For best results and longest service life, use light, controlled pressure and let the abrasive do the work.

How flat is the SBS Diamond Bench Stone?

The SBS is manufactured and tested to within ±0.00175″ (±0.045 mm), measured corner-to-corner across the diamond surface. As a reference, that tolerance is roughly half the thickness of an average human hair.

Should I clean the SBS while sharpening?

Yes — especially during longer sessions. The SBS Kit includes a cleaning block. With the plate dry, rub the cleaning block over the surface to lift swarf paste quickly.

As you sharpen, swarf (fine metal particles) mixes into the lubricant. If it builds up, it can paste onto the surface, reducing cutting efficiency and slowing abrasion.

Keeping the plates clear helps maintain consistent cutting performance.

Should I use the SBS dry or with lubricant?

The SBS can be used dry, but lubrication usually improves control and cutting consistency. A low-viscosity lapping fluid is the best option.

Lapping fluid helps prevent clogging and pasting by keeping fine metal particles suspended, rather than letting them pack into the surface.

If pasting develops, abrasion slows and efficiency drops.

Can the SBS sharpen ceramic knives?

Yes. Diamond abrasives are extremely hard, which makes the SBS plates suitable for sharpening ceramic knives.

Does the SBS need flattening like a whetstone?

No. Diamond plates don’t require flattening, and they’re often used to flatten other sharpening stones.

Interrupted vs. continuous surfaces: what’s the difference?

Interrupted patterns (dots, holes, or contour lines) help clear the contact area by channeling swarf-laden fluid away from the edge, reducing clogging during longer sessions.

Continuous surfaces can be better for small or pointed tools, but they generally need more frequent cleaning to prevent pasting or skating.

Can I regrind primary bevels on the SBS?

In short, yes — and that’s true of most diamond bench stones.

However, it’s not recommended.

Primary bevel work is best done on a powered system (for example, a Tormek). A bench stone is designed for precise removal at the cutting edge, not heavy stock removal.

Regrinding a primary bevel can require ten to twenty times more material removal. You can do it, but it will take considerable time and can shorten plate life unnecessarily.

Water, oil, or lapping fluid — what’s recommended?

Neither water nor oil is ideal. Oil is too viscous and can cause skating, reducing abrasion. Water performs better, but the plates must be fully cleaned and completely dried before storage.

The best choice is a low-viscosity lapping fluid. It maintains strong cutting action and helps reduce oxidation or rust after sharpening.

A fully synthetic, water-based lapping fluid is available that contains no:

• Nitrates
• Mineral oil
• Sulphur
• Chlorine
• Phenol

This helps protect tools from rust and reduces the chance of skin irritation commonly associated with petroleum-based fluids.

How should I clean and protect the SBS after use?

After sharpening:

• Dry the plates to remove excess fluid.
• Rub the surface with the cleaning block.
• If a deeper clean is needed, rinse and gently scrub with a used toothbrush and diluted dish detergent or lapping fluid.
• Dry thoroughly before storage.

Storing the SBS damp or loaded with swarf can encourage rust to form on the surface.

Tool Safety

A cautionary note: sharpening tools can be hazardous, particularly for those who are young, inexperienced, or untrained.

Sharpening should only be undertaken by users with adequate skill and understanding.