Iyoto Mokume Aka (Woodgrain/Red) Medium Grit Japanese Natural Whetstone

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

It measures 208 mm (8.19 inches) long × 80 mm (3.15 inches) wide × 35 mm (1.38 inches) tall, and weighs 1081 g (38.13 oz / 2.38 lbs).

Hardness: Hard/Fine
Newly mined Iyoto stone from Ehime. These Iyoto are considered Naka Toishi, or medium grit. They range in hardness and refinement capabilities with a wide range of potential performance characteristics depending on the type. There are 10+ different types of Iyoto which are currently being produced. This type is called Mokume Aka or Red Woodgrain . An extremely firm, hard Naka toishi with amazing refinement capabilities. Feels super hard when used with water only releasing no self slurry, even under the weight of a kitchen knife, and applying firm pressure. The stone is slower with water only and capable of producing a fine, near mirror finish. When slurry is forced, the stone's abrasive content is released and becomes free flowing. The stone cuts noticeably more fast when slurried and this seems to be the most effective manner in which to use it. Perfect for razors with it's extremely hard base. Also great for knives and tools producing a nearly finished, aggressive edge. Can be used for bevel setting on razors if slurried and used with nagura and water only to refine the coarse, diamond plate slurry finish.

See this type of Iyoto stone in action here https://youtu.be/6z9R74SqyBI?si=wtsCvod0NHw08Euz

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