DMT DuoSharp

[Koa]

I have to come up with a Christmas gift and I was considering adding 8 inch DuoSharps to sharpening collection. I definitely want the fine/extra fine and may consider the extra coarse/coarse as well. It has a base that you can get with it also that I'll try out. I am interested in any opinions on the stones and the base itself if anyone has experience with them.

[NervusNorvus]

I have used DMT products extensively. Any of the DMT diamond "stones" remove steel fast and last a long time.

That being said, I like the DIAsharp stones http://www.sharpeningsupplies.com/8-Dia-Sharp-Diamond-Stone-P7C24.aspx for their uninterrupted surface better than the DUO sharps. I find the uninterrupted surface is faster and does not snag knife tips the way the depressions in an interrupted surface can.

I find any of the diamond "stones" sharpen better when kept wet during sharpening. I have never used a base other than the adhesive rubber buttons. I guess double sided stones like the Duosharps might benefit from a base.