Imanishi whetstones are extremely popular with enthusiast and professional sharpeners. These stones are a high level stone for those starting out, or a nice option for those that travel with whetstones. With 1,200 and 4,000 grit, they are splash and go and come with a piece of non slip mat. The lower grit is thicker as all low grits wear faster than high (of any brand and any whetstone).
- Imanishi Japanese Whetstone
- Grit: 1,200 (Medium) & 4,000 (Finishing)
- Whetstone Size: 207 x 63 x 36mm
- Whetstone Weight: 973g
- No Soaking Required
- Professional Sharpening Stone / Whetstone
Japanese Sharpening Stones (Whetstones)
The consensus for sharpening Japanese kitchen knives, as well as Japanese woodworking tools, is the use of a whetstone. Dry grinding can affect temper (effectively ruining your knife or tool) and diamond plates are often too aggressive (removing too much material).
All Japanese whetstones will require flattening after use, no matter what type of stone, or the style of your sharpening, all whetstones will begin to dish over time. We recommend a ceramic flattening stone, or diamond plate for this task. For more info, check out Selecting a Japanese Whetstone.