Aiiwatani Karasu Japanese Finishing Whetstone

This exceptional Japanese whetstone was selected by us and imported directly from Japan, thoroughly tested and sealed on sides and back to protect the stone for long term use. 

It measures 130 mm (5.12 inches) long × 85 mm (3.35 inches) wide × 36 mm (1.42 inches) tall, and weighs 936 g (33.02 oz / 2.06 lbs).

Hardness: 4.5
Perfect Aiiwatani Suita with Karasu. A harder stone which offers a totally unique feel while sharpening/honing. Although quite dense and firm, the stone's surface demonstrates a level of resiliency which acts as a cushion, allowing for firmer pressure to be used. This makes for a different experience than honing on most stones. These Aiiwatani Karasu Suita are quite fine and combined with the stone's elastic characteristic, a wide range of applications become possible. These Aiiwatani Karasu Suita are Sunashi Suita (No Su) which are much more rare than normal Suita. The stone has been lapped on both sides which offers a wonderful perspective as to the purity/consistency of the stone. The stone's surface comes to life when wet and the vivid patterns emerge. The base is a deep blue/green with splashes of yellow Namazu and vivid Karasu patterns which run the entire height of the stone in layers.

A photo of the stone's polishing ability on soft and hard steels of a Japanese kitchen knife are shown.