Is 3 in 1 oil good for sharpening knives?

3-in-1 oil can work on a traditional oil stone, but it is not the best choice for sharpening knives. It is heavier and smellier than purpose-made honing oil, and it can attract grime if used too generously. Light mineral oil or commercial honing oil keeps the stone cleaner and usually cuts more smoothly. On water stones, 3-in-1 oil is the wrong lubricant and can permanently contaminate the stone surface. The key issue is not the knife. The key issue is the stone type. If you own an oil stone and nothing else is available, 3-in-1 oil can function in small amounts. For regular sharpening, a proper stone lubricant works better.