Best Flex Hones of 2025

Tom Law Avatar
Tom Law
Last Updated: 29 Jan 2025

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Flex Hones are highly effective honing tools that are designed to provide a superior surface finish on a range of materials. These flexible honing tools are commonly used in the automotive industry to finish cylinders, while also being suitable for a range of applications in other industries. The unique design of Flex Hones allows for a consistent and even surface finish, with the added benefit of being able to stabilise and straighten bores. The use of Flex Hones can help to improve the lifespan of components, reduce the need for replacement parts, and provide a more efficient and cost-effective solution for honing.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Brush Research FLEX-HONE Cylinder Hone, GBD Series Cover #TOP 1
Brush Research FLEX-HONE Cylinder Hone, GBD Series
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Flex-Hone Tool BC27818 Cylinder Hone Cover #TOP 2
Flex-Hone Tool BC27818 Cylinder Hone
ftb score rating icon 9.7
Brush Research FLEX-HONE Cylinder Hone, 240 Grit Cover #TOP 3
Brush Research FLEX-HONE Cylinder Hone, 240 Grit
ftb score rating icon 9.5

Top 10 Flex Hones

#TOP 1

Brush Research FLEX-HONE Cylinder Hone, GBD Series

Flex-Hone
GBD31224
Grey
3-1/2"
Brush Research FLEX-HONE Cylinder Hone, GBD Series Cover
Brush Research FLEX-HONE Cylinder Hone, GBD Series, Silicon Carbide Abrasive, 3-1/2" (89 mm) Diameter, 240 Grit Size

The FLEX-HONE Cylinder Hone is a versatile tool designed for surface finishing and deburring of cross holes. Its flexible abrasive design ensures that it self-centres, self-aligns, and compensates for wear, making it user-friendly and efficient. You can use it by hand or integrate it into CNC equipment, providing you with flexibility in your working methods. It is available in various sizes, allowing you to order based on your actual bore size, thus ensuring a perfect fit for your specific needs.

What We Like
Flexible abrasive design
Self-centering and self-aligning
Usable by hand or CNC
Available in multiple sizes
#TOP 2

Flex-Hone Tool BC27818 Cylinder Hone

Flex-Hone
BC27818
2-7/8"
Flex-Hone Tool BC27818 Cylinder Hone Cover
Flex-Hone Tool-BC27818 Brush Research Cylinder Hone, BC Series, Silicon Carbide Abrasive, 2-7/8" (73 mm) Diameter, 180 Grit Size

The Flex-Hone BC27818 is a flexible abrasive cylinder hone designed for effective surface finishing and deburring of cross holes. Its self-centering and self-aligning features ensure that you achieve accurate results every time, making your tasks easier and more efficient. Additionally, the tool compensates for wear, providing a longer lifespan and consistent performance. Whether you prefer using it by hand or in CNC equipment, this versatile tool accommodates your needs while allowing you to order by the actual bore size.

What We Like
Flexible for various applications
Self-centering for accuracy
Durable and long-lasting
Usable by hand or CNC
#TOP 3

Brush Research FLEX-HONE Cylinder Hone, 240 Grit

Flex-Hone
BC21824
Black
2-1/8"
Brush Research FLEX-HONE Cylinder Hone, 240 Grit Cover
Brush Research FLEX-HONE Cylinder Hone, BC Series, Silicon Carbide Abrasive, 2-1/8" (54 mm) Diameter, 240 Grit Size

The FLEX-HONE Cylinder Hone is crafted from durable silicon carbide, making it an excellent tool for bore honing and cylinder refinishing. It is self-centering, which ensures that you achieve precise results every time, enhancing your efficiency. Compatible with both 3/8" and 1/2" chuck drills, it offers flexibility and convenience in use. The size listed corresponds to the bore intended for use, allowing you to select the perfect fit for your project.

What We Like
Flexible cylinder hone
Self-centering design
Made in the USA
Compatible with multiple drills
Ideal for cylinder refinishing
#TOP 4

Flex-Hone GB Series Cylinder Hone, 120 Grit

Flex-Hone
GB31212
3-1/2\
Flex-Hone GB Series Cylinder Hone, 120 Grit Cover
Brush Research FLEX-HONE Cylinder Hone, GB Series, Silicon Carbide Abrasive, 3-1/2" (89 mm) Diameter, 120 Grit Size

The Flex-Hone GB Series is a versatile tool designed for surface finishing and deburring cross holes. Its flexible abrasive cylinder adapts easily to various shapes, ensuring a smooth finish every time. You will appreciate its self-centering and self-aligning features, which allow for precise work without the need for constant adjustments. Additionally, the tool's self-compensating design accommodates wear, extending its lifespan and utility. Whether you choose to use it by hand or with CNC equipment, this hone offers convenience and efficiency for all your finishing needs.

What We Like
Flexible for various applications
Self-centering for precision work
Accommodates wear for longevity
Suitable for hand or CNC use
#TOP 5

Brush Research Flex-Hone Cylinder Hone, 240 Grit

Flex-Hone
BC30024
Brush Research Flex-Hone Cylinder Hone, 240 Grit Cover
Brush Research FLEX-HONE Cylinder Hone, BC Series, Silicon Carbide Abrasive, 3" (76 mm) Diameter, 240 Grit Size

The Flex-Hone Cylinder Hone is a flexible abrasive tool designed for effective surface finishing and cross hole deburring. This hone is self-centering, self-aligning, and self-compensating for wear, ensuring you achieve a consistent finish with ease. You can use it by hand or with CNC equipment, providing versatility for your projects. Additionally, ordering by actual bore size is convenient, as the tool is produced oversized to accommodate your needs.

What We Like
Flexible for various applications
Self-centering and self-aligning
Usable by hand or CNC
Oversized for easy fitting
Available in various sizes
#TOP 6

Brush Research FLEX-HONE Cylinder Hone, 8" Diameter

Flex-Hone
GBD80012
8 Inches
Brush Research FLEX-HONE Cylinder Hone, 8" Diameter Cover
Brush Research FLEX-HONE Cylinder Hone, GBD Series, Silicon Carbide Abrasive, 8" (203 mm) Diameter, 120 Grit Size

The FLEX-HONE Cylinder Hone is designed for effective surface finishing and cross hole deburring. Its flexible abrasive structure allows you to effortlessly achieve a smooth finish on various surfaces. You can use it by hand or with CNC equipment, making it versatile for different projects. The self-centering, self-aligning, and self-compensating features ensure that it adapts to wear, providing consistent results every time you use it.

What We Like
Flexible for various applications
Can be used manually or CNC
Self-centering for ease of use
Durable and adaptable design
#TOP 7

Brush Research FLEX-HONE 5/8" 240 Grit

Flex-Hone
BC5824
5/8 Inches
Brush Research FLEX-HONE 5/8" 240 Grit Cover
Brush Research BC5824 FLEX-HONE, 5/8" (16mm) Diameter, 240 Grit, Silicon Carbide Abrasive (Pack of 1)

The FLEX-HONE 5/8" is designed for effective surface finishing and cross hole deburring. Its flexible abrasive cylinder ensures that you can reach intricate areas effortlessly, promoting a smooth finish on your workpieces. You will appreciate its self-centering and self-aligning features, which allow for consistent results every time, regardless of wear. Whether you choose to use it manually or in CNC equipment, this tool adapts to your needs, making it a versatile addition to your toolkit.

What We Like
Flexible for intricate work
Self-centering for consistent results
Usable by hand or CNC
Various sizes available
#TOP 8

Brush Research Flex Hone for Block Cylinders

Flex-Hone
GB314240AO
3-1/4"
Brush Research Flex Hone for Block Cylinders Cover
Brush Research - GB314240AO GB Standard Duty Flex Hone for Block Cylinders, Aluminum Oxide, 3-1/4" Diameter, 240 Grit (Pack of 1)

The Flex-Hone GB314240AO is proudly manufactured in the USA and is designed for durability, ensuring a long-lasting tool that reduces overall costs compared to other brush options. Its self-centering and self-aligning features provide ease of use, making your work more efficient. You can achieve specific finishing tolerances and a stunning crosshatch finish, helping you elevate the quality of your projects. Additionally, this tool is perfect for finishing and deburring in one operation, saving you time and effort.

What We Like
Durable and long-lasting
Self-centering design
Achieves specific finishing tolerances
Simultaneous finishing and deburring
Excellent for non-ferrous materials
#TOP 9

4" Flex Hone 320 Grit for Engine Cylinders

Flex-Hone
GBD40032
4" Flex Hone 320 Grit for Engine Cylinders Cover
4" (101MM) Flex Hone 320 Grit Silicon Carbide Commercial Grade

The Flex-Hone 4" Cylinder Tool is designed for engine cylinder honing in bores ranging from 3.825" to 4.055". With a 320 grit finish, it is excellent for re-ringing jobs, ensuring a smooth surface for performance or Moly rings. The tool is self-centering, making it easy to use, and can be operated with either a 3/8" or 1/2" chuck portable drill or drill press. Additionally, it is manufactured in the USA by a leading cylinder hone manufacturer, guaranteeing quality and reliability.

What We Like
High-quality commercial grade
Easy to use and self-centering
Suitable for various bore sizes
Great for performance ring applications
Made in the USA
#TOP 10

Brush Research Flex-Hone Cylinder Hone, 320 Grit

Flex-Hone
BC15832
Grey
1-5/8"
Brush Research Flex-Hone Cylinder Hone, 320 Grit Cover
Brush Research BC15832 FLEX-HONE Cylinder Hone, BC Series, Silicon Carbide Abrasive, 1-5/8" (41 mm) Diameter, 320 Grit Size

The Flex-Hone Cylinder Hone is a versatile tool designed for surface finishing and deburring cross holes. Its flexible abrasive structure allows you to achieve a smooth finish effortlessly. You’ll appreciate its self-centering and self-aligning features, which ensure consistent results without the need for complicated setups. Additionally, the self-compensating design caters to wear, extending the tool’s lifespan. You can use this handy tool by hand or in CNC equipment, making it suitable for various applications.

What We Like
Flexible for various tasks
Self-centering for easy use
Compatible with CNC equipment
Durable and long-lasting
Buying Guide Image

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is the purpose of a Flex-Hone?

The Flex-Hone®, also known as the cylinder ball hone, is commonly used to reduce Ra, Rk and Rpk values while maintaining Rvk and Vo volume for oil retention. Using the Flex- Hone® Tool for surface finishing allows the sizing tools to do their jobs quickly and accurately without fighting surface finish.

2. What size Flex-Hone should I use?

Flex-Hones are made oversize so you need to choose the size based on the size of your cylinder. If your cylinder is a non-standard size select the next largest size. For example, for a cylinder that has been machined to 3-3/8”, choose a 3-1/2” hone.

3. How much material does a Flex-Hone remove?

No. The Flex-Hone® tool is a surface finishing tool, not a material removal tool. We are reducing the rough peaks of a surfaces micro-structure and typically we only remove a small amount of material. Typical 30-40 strokes to achieve the cross hatch will remove just under 0.0001" of material.

4. What grit Flex-Hone should I use?

Hones with 180 to 240 grits are good choices for general deglazing where the cylinder is not going to be bored or honed. A 320 grit, and even sometimes as fine as 400 grit are often used in high performance applications with high performance ring sets.

Editor's Notes

During our flex hone research, we found 108 flex hone products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 9,152 customer reviews through our big data system to write the flex hones list. We found that most customers choose flex hones with an average price of £41.93.

The flex hones are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of flex hones, including Flex-Hone and more.

Written by
Tom Law Avatar

Tom Law is an adventurer who has captured his love for nature into all of his works. A native of Newcastle, Tom has always wanted to share beautiful stories alongside the lovely sights of nature. Fortunately, he took into photography on one of his many journeys and gradually grew a passion for it. Tom Law is now an expert photographer who tours the world while creating and keeping memories of his adventures. He frequently puts his thoughts and experiences into writing.