This was my first time using a diamond stone and G5 never said a thing about getting it wet first. They even have a little video online and said nothing aboutit on there either. I sharpen all my hunting knives myself and easialy get them shaving sharp, usualy just need a set of ceramic stiks and I could shave with them. I never tried a regular stone and honing oil on the montecs. I thought it might be useful to some people, Im in no way doubting your technique on sharpening them Bigcountry, the way I found just seems easier.