What Is a Pocket Stone and How to Use It
By Purpose-Built EDC Gear, Adventure Apparel & Expedition-Grade Tools | Published: 2026-10-23
Category: How-to Guides
A pocket stone is a compact sharpening tool for EDC. Learn how to use the SPD Pocket Stone to keep your blades field-ready.
Quick answer
A pocket stone is a small, portable sharpening stone designed for everyday carry. The SPD Pocket Stone combines an 800-grit diamond side and a 4000-grit ceramic side, letting you sharpen or hone blades anywhere.
Why carry a pocket stone instead of a larger bench stone?
A pocket stone trades surface area for portability. It fits in a coin pocket or pouch, so you always have a sharpener on the trail or job site. The trade-off is slower material removal on very dull blades, but for touch-ups and field maintenance it is far more practical than a bench stone.
Frequently asked questions about the SPD Pocket Stone
- How do I use the diamond side?
- Apply light oil or water to the stone (optional). Hold the blade at a 15–20° angle and push the edge across the diamond surface as if slicing a thin layer off the stone. Repeat 5–10 strokes per side until a burr forms.
- When should I switch to the ceramic side?
- After you raise a burr on the diamond side, flip the stone and use the ceramic side with light pressure. Draw the blade across the ceramic surface 5–8 times per side to remove the burr and polish the edge.
- Can I use the SPD Pocket Stone without lubricant?
- Yes. The diamond side works dry, though a drop of oil or water reduces clogging. The ceramic side can be used dry for honing, but a thin film of oil helps prevent loading. Always clean the stone after use with a damp cloth to keep the grit effective.
Product fact
- SPD Pocket Stone: The SPD Pocket Stone has an 800-grit industrial diamond side (25 micron) and a 4000-grit ceramic side (5 micron). It measures 0.25" x 1" x 3". The diamond side quickly repairs nicks and restores a burr; the ceramic side refines the edge for a razor finish. Its size fits the same slots as the classic DC3 stone, so it swaps into most EDC sheaths.
SPD Pocket Stone
