mikew
>"I am on the path rightnow that finer water stones that are used to refine an edge add life to the edge (time between sharpenings), maybe I am wrong, but I like the idea that there are more than a single way to sharpen and hone an edge."

Hi Jim,

Yeah, all things being equal, I do think a more refined edge gives better edge retention. Certain it can make a difference on the surface left behind. But the edge retention I think begins a diminishing return.

When I was making a living with woodwork, I rarely honed past a 2k stone except my paring chisels and my smoothers. Even the paring chisel only went to 2k if what I was paring didn't require more. I would pare between parts. So I only needed to take a couple swipes. The stones lived on my bench.

In the morning with my coffee, I would sharpen everything from the day before up to the 8k. But during work, nah, most times it was simply the 2k stone. And if my wife's Tormek was set up, chances are I simply used the strop and .5 micron paste on the leather honing wheel. Quick to renew the edge.

But do know I'ma heathen when it comes to "established" methods. Especially sharpening I suspect. I've been know to use a smooth concrete floor for touching up chisels during on-site work. I've used smooth river rock smeared with toothpaste to sharpen carving tools. From there, it's all good.

As for DM, he's got a web site. The link is below. He's a pretty good teacher, excellent builder. He's been experiementing with different metals in his woodwork for quite a while. His work isn't for everyone--and neither was mine.

Take care, Mike
who's gotta get back to work...