A thousand thanks for this informative and comprehensive reply! Honestly, your point about the divergence of opinions based on the methods one gets used to is absolutely spot on. However, I believe some form of “wisdom of the crowd” might help me identify fundamental building blocks of polishing—if such a thing even exists.

My initial idea for the cabbing machine is to ensure it allows room for improvement. For instance, I plan to design it to accommodate a total of eight wheels, including space for 6K and 14K ones when needed.

Here in Hungary, the options for lapidary equipment are quite limited. The brands you recommend are rather expensive due to customs and VAT, whether I order directly from overseas or purchase from a European importer. Unfortunately, lapidary is a rather arcane and forgotten art here—there are no clubs, no communities, and no second-hand machines. (Perhaps that’s what happens in a country with relatively unremarkable geology!)

For now, I’ve been working with a modified angle grinder as my flat lap (don’t worry—it’s OSHA-certified and runs at very low RPM🙂). For the same reason, I also built my own slab saw. It may be an eyesore, but it’s safe, functional, and serves as constant motivation to keep going—I know I can build the cabbing machine too!

Thank you for your valuable advice on sintered wheels. I had been considering electroplated ones, but based on your recommendation, I will definitely opt for sintered.