Aiwatani Namito Japanese Natural Finishing Whetstone

Selected by us and imported directly from Japan, this Japanese whetstone has been sealed on the sides and back with clear lacquer for protection and extensively tested to assess its performance. Complete details of our testing results are provided below.

Hardness: 4.5
Large Aiiwatani Namito with beautiful, symmetrical patterns. This huge piece is both hard and fine, yet quite easy to use. Namito is a strata which falls between Aisa and Suita. Typically known for producing hard and fine stones and this one is no exception. With ample usable surface area, this giant is luxurious to hone on! This Namito has a hard yet forgiving feel with great particle uniformity. Water only laps are smooth and alive with subtle, fine, granularity which is easily discernable. Not super hard but very hard with great feel when honing with Mikawa nagura. A tad of self slurry kicks up with harder Nagura but the feedback is absolutely there and quite fun to hone with. Lazer edges are achievable with all slurry mediums and honing methods. Quite fast for its hardness and also great for tool and knife finishing. Heavier blades can be sharpened with ease as the stone accepts firm pressure and cuts impressively. Bright, slightly hazy finish and amazing edges!