First Impressions of Smiths Products 51312 DualGrit Double-Sided Sharpening Stone 6″ Diamond Sharpene
As a seasoned outdoor and tactical gear enthusiast, I’ve encountered countless sharpening tools, from rudimentary stones to complex systems. The Smiths Products 51312 DualGrit Double-Sided Sharpening Stone 6″ Diamond Sharpene piqued my interest with its promise of diamond sharpening technology in a compact, portable package. Could this relatively affordable stone deliver professional-grade sharpness in the field?
I was specifically looking for a sharpening stone that was versatile enough to handle everything from my hunting knives to my EDC blade, without requiring a complicated setup or taking up too much space in my pack. I’ve often relied on Arkansas stones and ceramic rods, but I was intrigued by the faster cutting action of diamond and the dual-grit configuration for both aggressive sharpening and refined honing. My initial comparison focused on the Lansky Diamond/Ceramic Sharpening Paddle and the DMT Diafold Diamond Whetstone, but I ultimately chose the Smiths product for its combination of features and the included base, which seemed to offer a more stable sharpening platform. My initial impression was hopeful, envisioning a rugged, reliable tool that could quickly restore a razor-sharp edge to my blades, wherever my adventures took me.
Unboxing the Smiths Products 51312, I immediately noticed the sturdy plastic base and lid. The stone itself felt solid, and the dual-grit diamond surfaces appeared well-constructed. The plastic base and lid felt a little lightweight, but I appreciated the design that allowed the lid to attach to the base, effectively extending its height for safer use. It seemed well-thought-out and compact.
Real-World Testing: Putting Smiths Products 51312 DualGrit Double-Sided Sharpening Stone 6″ Diamond Sharpene to the Test
First Use Experience
My first test of the Smiths Products 51312 was during a backcountry camping trip in the Adirondacks. I brought along my trusty Benchmade bushcraft knife, which had dulled after several days of carving wood and preparing meals. The stone was tested on the blade in the field to restore its edge.
I found the Smiths stone remarkably easy to use, even in the somewhat cramped and uneven conditions of my campsite. The base provided a stable platform, and the dual-grit surfaces allowed me to quickly reprofile the edge with the medium grit before refining it with the fine grit. I did find that applying consistent pressure and maintaining the correct angle took a little practice, but the results were immediately noticeable. The stone performed admirably in the cool, damp conditions, with the diamond surfaces maintaining their cutting efficiency even when slightly wet.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Smiths Products 51312 has proven to be a reliable and effective sharpening tool. I’ve used it to sharpen a variety of blades, from my kitchen knives to my hunting knives, and it has consistently delivered impressive results. There has been some minor wear and tear on the stone, but nothing that has affected its performance.
The diamond surfaces are still cutting effectively, and the plastic base remains sturdy. I’ve also appreciated how easy it is to clean; a simple rinse with water and a quick wipe down is all it takes to remove any metal filings or debris. Compared to my previous sharpening stones, the Smiths stone has held up remarkably well, consistently outperforming my expectations in terms of both speed and ease of use.
Breaking Down the Features of Smiths Products 51312 DualGrit Double-Sided Sharpening Stone 6″ Diamond Sharpene
Specifications
The Smiths Products 51312 DualGrit Double-Sided Sharpening Stone 6″ Diamond Sharpene boasts several key specifications. It has a 6-inch length and 1.75-inch width. These dimensions offer a good balance between portability and usable sharpening surface.
- Manufacturer: Smiths
- Material: Diamond
- Grit: Dual-Grit (Medium/Fine)
- Dimensions: 6″ x 1.75″
The dual-grit configuration provides versatility. It allows for both aggressive metal removal and fine honing. The diamond material ensures fast and efficient sharpening. This is critical for quickly restoring dull edges.
Performance & Functionality
The Smiths Products 51312 excels at quickly restoring dull edges. The medium grit effectively removes metal to reprofile the blade. The fine grit then hones the edge to a razor sharpness.
The stone performs reliably across a variety of blade steels. I’ve used it on everything from stainless steel kitchen knives to high-carbon steel hunting knives. Its consistent performance is a major advantage. However, extremely hard or heavily damaged blades may require more specialized sharpening tools.
Design & Ergonomics
The Smiths Products 51312 is designed with user-friendliness in mind. The plastic base provides a stable and secure platform for sharpening. This is essential for maintaining consistent angles and preventing accidents.
The lightweight construction makes it easy to carry. It is ideal for use in the field. The plastic base and lid, while not premium materials, are functional and add to the overall portability.
Durability & Maintenance
Diamond sharpening stones are known for their long lifespan. The Smiths Products 51312 is no exception. The diamond surfaces are durable and resistant to wear.
Maintenance is simple. A quick rinse with water after each use is sufficient. This keeps the stone clean and prevents clogging.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Smiths Products 51312 comes with a plastic base and lid. These are useful for storage and provide a stable sharpening platform. There are no specific customization options for this particular stone.
However, it can be used with a variety of honing oils. This can help to improve the sharpening process and prolong the life of the stone. The product is not particularly compatible with third-party sharpening systems.
Pros and Cons of Smiths Products 51312 DualGrit Double-Sided Sharpening Stone 6″ Diamond Sharpene
Pros
- Dual-grit design provides versatility for both aggressive sharpening and fine honing.
- Diamond sharpening surface offers fast and efficient material removal.
- Compact and lightweight design makes it ideal for field use.
- Stable base ensures safe and consistent sharpening.
- Easy to clean and maintain, requiring only water and a quick wipe.
Cons
- Plastic base and lid, while functional, feel somewhat cheap.
- Sharpening technique requires some practice to achieve optimal results.
Who Should Buy Smiths Products 51312 DualGrit Double-Sided Sharpening Stone 6″ Diamond Sharpene?
The Smiths Products 51312 DualGrit Double-Sided Sharpening Stone 6″ Diamond Sharpene is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts who need a portable and effective sharpening solution. This includes hunters, campers, anglers, and survivalists. It’s also a good option for home users who want a versatile stone for maintaining their kitchen knives and other tools.
Someone seeking a more comprehensive sharpening system, or those with extremely damaged blades, should skip this product. A honing oil or strop is a must-have accessory. This helps refine the edge and remove any remaining burrs.
Conclusion on Smiths Products 51312 DualGrit Double-Sided Sharpening Stone 6″ Diamond Sharpene
Overall, the Smiths Products 51312 DualGrit Double-Sided Sharpening Stone 6″ Diamond Sharpene is a highly effective and versatile sharpening tool. Its dual-grit design, diamond sharpening surface, and portable size make it an excellent choice for both field and home use.
The price is certainly justified for the value offered. The Smiths stone delivers professional-grade sharpness at a fraction of the cost of more elaborate sharpening systems. I would definitely recommend it to anyone looking for a reliable and easy-to-use sharpening solution.
Get your Smiths Products 51312 DualGrit Double-Sided Sharpening Stone 6″ Diamond Sharpene today and experience the difference a truly sharp blade can make!