Was the Wicked Edge Diamond Stones Pack, 2ea the Right Choice?
My workbench, much like my life, is a testament to hands-on experience. Over the years, I’ve honed, shaped, and refined countless edges, from the delicate tools of a laboratory to the rugged blades that accompany me into the wild. Recently, a specific challenge arose: a batch of well-loved, but severely damaged, blades that required a significant overhaul. These weren’t just dull; they had chips, nicks, and an overall reshaping need that pushed the boundaries of my standard sharpening kit. This is precisely where the Wicked Edge Diamond Stones Pack, 2ea entered the picture.
The initial impression upon unboxing was one of serious intent. The stones themselves felt robust, with a satisfying heft that spoke of quality construction. The included specifications pointed to aggressive material removal, exactly what I needed for the task at hand. I’d considered other, more abrasive stones from different manufacturers, but the reputation of the Wicked Edge system, and specifically their diamond offerings for aggressive work, steered me toward this pack. A flicker of anticipation, tinged with the healthy respect one affords powerful tools, was my immediate reaction.
Real-World Testing: Putting Wicked Edge Diamond Stones Pack, 2ea to the Test
My testing ground for these stones was my dedicated workshop and occasional field sharpening station. The initial foray involved a heavily abused Bowie knife, its edge a landscape of imperfections. I mounted the Wicked Edge Diamond Stones Pack, 2ea into my sharpening system and began the process. The aggressive nature of the diamonds was immediately apparent, shaving away metal with a satisfying speed.
Even with repeated passes and the application of moderate pressure, the stones showed no sign of loading up or losing their cutting efficiency. They handled the rough work of re-profiling with an eagerness that impressed me, biting into the steel and reshaping the bevels without excessive effort. I experienced no unexpected vibrations or structural issues, even when working at an angle that put considerable force on the stones.
After several weeks of tackling various blades that ranged from kitchen knives with chipped edges to workshop chisels that had seen better days, these diamond stones have proven their mettle. They continue to remove material efficiently, demonstrating remarkable durability. I haven’t noticed any significant dishing or premature wear, which is a testament to their construction and the quality of the diamond grit.
Maintenance has been straightforward; a simple rinse under running water and a quick scrub with a soft brush is usually all that’s needed to keep them clean and ready for the next task. They store easily in their original packaging, protected and ready. Compared to previous experiences with cheaper, bonded diamond plates that quickly lose their effectiveness, these stones offer a significant step up in longevity and consistent performance.
Specifications
The Wicked Edge Diamond Stones Pack, 2ea comes with two stones, each designed for aggressive material removal. The product description highlights a 2200 Grit rating, which, while sounding fine, combined with the diamond abrasive, behaves much more aggressively than its micron equivalent in traditional stones. The stones themselves are mounted on 6061-T6 Aluminum plates, a lightweight yet rigid material that ensures flatness and durability.
The aluminum base is crucial; it provides a stable platform that doesn’t warp or flex under pressure, ensuring consistent contact with the blade. This rigidity is key for achieving precise bevels and avoiding the frustrating inconsistencies that plague less well-constructed sharpening media. While the grit might suggest a finishing stone, in the context of diamond abrasives, it serves as an excellent aggressive cutting medium for re-profiling and establishing new edges.
Performance & Functionality
When it comes to their primary job – removing metal and reshaping edges – these diamond stones excel. The aggressive cutting action means that you can quickly restore damaged edges or establish entirely new bevels without spending hours at the sharpening bench. They perform exceptionally well on a variety of steel types, from softer carbon steels to harder stainless alloys.
The primary strength of this pack is its sheer effectiveness in aggressive stock removal. It tackles damaged edges with a ferocity that is both impressive and efficient. The main drawback, if one can call it that, is the aggressive nature itself; it demands a measured and deliberate approach. Rushing the process can lead to unintended material removal, so a steady hand and consistent angle are paramount.
Design & Ergonomics
The design of these stones is simple yet highly effective. The 6061-T6 Aluminum base offers a solid, flat surface that feels substantial and reliable. The diamond abrasive is evenly and securely applied, showing no signs of delamination or peeling, even after prolonged use.
Ergonomically, they integrate seamlessly into a Wicked Edge sharpening system, fitting securely into the sharpening arms. The flatness of the stones is immediately noticeable and contributes significantly to the ease of use, allowing for consistent edge contact without the need for constant angle adjustments to compensate for a dished stone. The overall build quality feels robust, designed for heavy use in demanding environments.
Durability & Maintenance
For their intended purpose, these diamond stones are built to last. Diamond is an incredibly hard and durable abrasive, meaning these stones should provide a significant lifespan before any noticeable wear begins to affect their performance. I anticipate many hundreds of sharpening sessions from these two units, especially considering their role in more aggressive, less frequent sharpening tasks.
Cleaning them is uncomplicated. A quick wipe-down with a damp cloth after use, followed by a thorough rinse and allowing them to air dry, is sufficient. There are no complex maintenance procedures or consumable parts to worry about beyond the eventual wear of the diamond grit itself, which for most users will be a very long time. I have experienced no failure points or potential concerns with these stones in my testing.
Accessories and Customization Options
This particular pack consists of the two stones themselves, designed to be used within a compatible sharpening system. There are no additional accessories included, as the product’s function is singular: aggressive sharpening. However, it’s worth noting that the Wicked Edge Diamond Stones Pack, 2ea is designed to work with the proprietary clamping and angle-setting mechanisms of the Wicked Edge sharpening systems, which are essential for their effective use. Without such a system, these stones, while excellent abrasives, would be impractical for most sharpening tasks.
Pros and Cons of Wicked Edge Diamond Stones Pack, 2ea
Pros
- Aggressive cutting action that quickly reshapes damaged edges and establishes new bevels.
- Durable diamond abrasive bonded securely to a rigid 6061-T6 Aluminum base.
- Excellent flatness that ensures consistent contact and repeatable results.
- Low maintenance and easy to clean, contributing to user convenience.
- Long lifespan expected for diamond abrasives, providing great value over time.
Cons
- Requires a compatible sharpening system (like the Wicked Edge system) to be used effectively.
- Aggressive nature demands careful technique to avoid removing excessive material.
- Higher initial cost compared to some non-diamond abrasive options.
Who Should Buy Wicked Edge Diamond Stones Pack, 2ea?
This pack is an indispensable tool for anyone who frequently works with blades that require significant metal removal or edge re-profiling. Knife makers, experienced woodworkers who regularly restore chisels and plane blades, or anyone who frequently deals with severely damaged knives will find immense value here. It’s ideal for those who prioritize efficiency and effective material removal over fine finishing capabilities from the get-go.
However, individuals who primarily need to maintain already sharp edges or perform light touch-ups might find these stones overly aggressive. If you are looking for fine polishing or mirror finishes as your primary goal, you would likely need to follow these with finer grit stones. For those just starting out with blade sharpening, it might be prudent to gain some experience with less aggressive media before diving into these powerful diamonds. A good quality sharpening system, such as the Wicked Edge models, is a must-have accessory for these stones.
Conclusion on Wicked Edge Diamond Stones Pack, 2ea
The Wicked Edge Diamond Stones Pack, 2ea is a serious tool for serious sharpening tasks. Its aggressive cutting ability, coupled with robust construction and reliable flatness, makes it an outstanding choice for re-profiling, repairing, and establishing edges that other stones would struggle with for hours. While the initial investment might be higher than some alternatives, the efficiency, durability, and consistent performance offered by these diamond stones justify the price for anyone engaged in demanding blade work. I would wholeheartedly recommend this pack to the experienced craftsman, the dedicated knife enthusiast, or anyone who needs to get through significant metal removal quickly and effectively.