In this work, three Cu–Sn–Fe–Ni matrices with different hardness were utilized in the diamond honing stones. Structures of the three matrices were investigated by X-ray diffraction, energy dispersive spectroscopy and scanning electron microscopy, and the results showed that the Cu–Sn–Fe–Ni matrices were composed of the pure copper, pure iron and (Cu, Ni) 41 Sn 11 . The wear properties of the matrices were estimated by a pin-on-disk wear machine under dry conditions at room temperature in the air. The influences of hardness on the honing performances were studied in terms of the honed surface aspect, the honing efficiency and the throughput of cylinder liners. Among the three stones, the stone with matrix B (HRB 71) reaches the self-sharpening range in terms of the three aspects mentioned above. Compared this stone with a commercially available product, the former has better honing efficiency.