I have seen lathe tool sharpening videos and live demonstrations that all (that I have seen) state honing lathe tools is a waste of time.
How many of these demos were speaking of "honing" tools that would nbe used for turning pens.
I believe there is a difference.
I am not "hogging" off a big hunk of everything that isn't a bowl.
For some strange reason (call me stupid) I think a tool that is meant to cut should be sharp.
BTW how often do you sharpen your good pocket knife on a 120 grit stone?
Do you think a surgeon gives is scalpel to his nurse and says go to the shop and touch this up for me on the bench grinder before I do brain surgery.
My methods may be unorthidox but based on some of the materials I have turned succesfully I think I am sharpening my tools ok by HAND, By EYE with a diamond stone.
the best part is I don't have to spend my mony on some unesscesary guide, gadget or tool.
It is called practice and patience.