BEST JAPANESE SHARPENING STONE YOU CAN BUY EVEN IF YOU ARE NOT IN JAPAN!

Japanese sharpening stones, also known as water stones, are highly sought after by chefs, craftsmen, and home cooks for their ability to sharpen knives and other cutting tools with precision and efficiency. These stones are made from natural or synthetic materials and are available in various sizes and grit levels.

While Japanese sharpening stones were once difficult to find outside Japan, they are now widely available online and in specialty stores. Even if you are not in Japan, this article will give you an overview of the best Japanese sharpening stones you can purchase.

Best Japanese Sharpening Stones You Can Buy

1. King Japanese Sharpening Stone: This is a versatile and affordable option for beginners. It is available in a range of grit levels, from 220 to 8000, and can be used to sharpen knives, scissors, chisels, and other cutting tools.

2. Shapton Glass Stone: This high-end sharpening stone is made from a unique ceramic material that provides consistent and fast sharpening. It is available in a range of grit levels, from 120 to 16000, and is suitable for sharpening all cutting tools.

3. Naniwa Super Stone: This high-quality sharpening stone is made from a combination of abrasive particles and bonding agents, which creates a uniform sharpening surface. It is available in a range of grit levels, from 220 to 10000, and is suitable for sharpening all cutting tools.

4. Suehiro Japanese Sharpening Stone: This versatile sharpening stone is available in a range of grit levels, from 120 to 10000. It is suitable for sharpening all cutting tools, including knives, scissors, chisels, and plane blades.

How to Choose the Best Japanese Sharpening Stone When choosing a Japanese sharpening stone, there are several factors to consider:

1. Grit level: The grit level of a sharpening stone determines how much material will be removed from the tool’s cutting edge. Coarse grit levels, such as 220 or 400, are best for repairing chips or nicks in the blade, while fine grit levels, such as 6000 or 8000, are best for honing and polishing the cutting edge.
2. Size and shape: What kind of tools can be sharpened with a sharpening stone depends on size and shape. A larger stone is better for sharpening larger tools, while a smaller stone is more suitable for smaller agencies. The condition of the stone, such as flat or curved, will also affect its use.
3. Material: Sharpening stones can be made from natural or synthetic materials. Natural stones, such as Japanese water stones, are typically more expensive but provide a superior sharpening surface. Synthetic stones are more affordable and more consistent in their grit level.
4. Brand reputation: Choose a reputable brand with a proven track record of producing high-quality sharpening stones. This can ensure you get a reliable and effective sharpening stone that will last many years.

Using Japanese Sharpening Stones

Using a Japanese sharpening stone requires some preparation and practice, but it can be rewarding and enjoyable. Here are some basic steps to follow when using a sharpening stone:

1. Preparation: Before using a sharpening stone, soak it in water for several minutes to ensure it is fully saturated. This will help to prevent the stone from drying out during the sharpening process.
2. Sharpening process: Start with a coarse grit stone and work to a finer grit stone. Hold the cutting tool at the correct angle, usually around 15 to 20 degrees, and use a back-and-forth motion to sharpen the blade. Repeat this process on both sides of the blade until the desired sharpness is achieved.
3. Honing and Finishing: Once the blade has been sharpened, use a finer gritstone to hone and polish the cutting edge. This will remove any burrs or rough spots left by the coarse grit stone. Finish using a leather strop or honing compound to refine the edge further.

Conclusion

Japanese sharpening stones are valuable for anyone who needs to keep their cutting tools sharp and in top condition. Whether you are a professional chef, a woodworker, or a home cook, a Japanese sharpening stone can help you achieve the level of sharpness you need.

When choosing a Japanese sharpening stone, consider the grit level, size and shape, material, and brand reputation. The best Japanese sharpening stone you can buy will depend on your needs and preferences, but any of the stones listed above would be a great choice.

With practice and patience, you can master sharpening with a Japanese sharpening stone and enjoy sharp, reliable cutting tools for years.