FAQs
Do you ship internationally?
We sure do! Having issues? Send us an email our use our "Contact Us" form and we are happy to help.
Where can I learn more about natural stones?
I recommend these sites as well researched sources:
- https://naturalwhetstones.com/
- http://www.tomonagura.com/
- https://historyrazors.wordpress.com/
How do you rate the hardness of your stones?
We test each stone before selling, and know how each feels under-steel.
- Very soft - As soft as the softest synthetics. Probably too soft. Will be a mud bath during using and need to be flattened often.
- Soft - Easily self slurries
- Middle - Easy to use, not too soft, not hard. Will self slurry with pressure.
- Hard - Will self slurry only if matched to the correct knife and used with pressure. Not so hard as to need a nagura. Okay for beginners, but a little trickier to use.
- Very hard - These stones are best suited for razors & tools. Using the for bevel work on knives is possible, but typically will require forced slurry or nagura. Not recommended for beginners.
How do you rate the fineness of your stones?
We test each stone before selling, and know how each one sharpens and polishes.
- Very Coarse - Suited for thinning or sharpening cheap stainless.
- Coarse - Erasing coarse scratches or setting a new bevel
- Medium - Scratch pattern refines leaving consistent polishes. Great aggressive edges for kitchen knives.
- Fine - Scatch free, hazy finishes during polishing. Well balanced refined edges for kitchen knives.
- Very fine - Approaching mirror on the core. Much brighter finishes with great detail. Great for uraoshi work or those who prefer hyper-keen edges on kitchen knives. Suitable for finishing tools and razors.
Do natural stones need to be sealed?
We recommend sealing all natural stones to lower the risk of cracking or other damage over time. While urushi or cashew lacquer is a stronger and more durable sealant, for most non-professionals other options are more than sufficient.
What do you use to seal stones?
We seal stones with a marine-grade transparent lacquer. Reach out to us after buying for sealing options.
Why do you not stock coarse stones?
There are few, if any, compelling options for natural stones in the coarser range. Synthetic whetstones are faster and more consistent and our recommendation for coarse work.
Why do you not stock synthetic whetstones?
Our focus is natural stones, but maybe someday!