Poly Diamond Emulsion & Sprays

What is poly diamond emulsion and how is it used in sharpening?
Poly diamond emulsion is a suspension of ultra-fine polycrystalline diamond particles in a liquid base (usually water or oil). It’s used to enhance the stropping process after sharpening on stones. When applied to a strop (leather, balsa, or nanocloth), the diamond particles refine the edge by polishing away microscopic burrs and scratches, resulting in a sharper, more polished edge. The "4 micron" size is fairly aggressive and is great for refining a working edge after medium-grit sharpening.

What’s the difference between polycrystalline and monocrystalline diamond emulsions?
Polycrystalline diamonds have a multi-faceted structure, meaning they break down into smaller, sharp cutting surfaces as you use them. This creates a more consistent and less harsh polishing action compared to monocrystalline diamonds, which are single-crystal and tend to cut more aggressively. As a result, poly diamond emulsions are often preferred for their smoother finish and longer-lasting cutting performance in stropping applications.

How often should I apply diamond emulsion to my strop?
It depends on your usage, but in general, you only need to reapply every 10–20 uses or when you notice the strop isn’t performing as effectively. Use a few pumps (or drops) to evenly coat the surface of your strop. Overapplication can lead to build-up and diminished performance. Let the emulsion dry slightly before stropping for best results.

What are Poly Diamond Sprays used for in knife sharpening?
Poly Diamond Sprays are used as a finishing compound in the stropping process to polish and refine the cutting edge of knives, razors, and tools. They contain polycrystalline diamond particles that cut evenly and efficiently, helping to produce a razor-sharp, mirror-finished edge with minimal effort.

How are Poly Diamond Sprays different from emulsions or pastes?
Unlike emulsions or pastes, Poly Diamond Sprays offer quick and even application to strops, making them ideal for users who want convenience and precision. The spray format reduces waste and helps distribute the abrasive uniformly over leather, nanocloth, or balsa strops without clogging the surface.

Can Poly Diamond Sprays be used on all types of knives and steels?
Yes, Poly Diamond Sprays are suitable for all blade types, including high-carbon, stainless, powdered, and super steels. They are especially effective on harder steels that require a finer abrasive to achieve optimal results.