Japanese Natural Toishi Finishing Whetstone - Shobudani Asagi

This exceptional Japanese whetstone was selected and purchased by us directly from Japan, then thoroughly tested and coated with cashew lacquer on sides and back to protect the stone for long term use. It measures 154 mm (6.06 in) long × 52 mm (2.05 in) wide × 28 mm (1.10 in) thick, and weighs 565g.

Stone Testing Details:

Hardness: LV 5
This stone is a beautiful Mizu blue/grey with perfect, clean surface. The backside is hand chiseled which is usually indicative of a quality piece. 
For razors, water only honing was fast feeling with a layer of fine silky texture. There is a bit more of a forgiving feel while still remaining dense and hard. A light diamond plate slurry sped up the stone and the slurry darkened while honing with medium pressure. The stone is hard enough for Mikawa Nagura progression as well. The honing feel with Nagura was excellent and feedback is very clear.
For knives, it has the same hard feel but polishing felt smooth and comfortable. The stone self slurries a bit but mostly releases black swarf with the feeling of gliding. Kasumi finish is bright, mirror like with a light haze.

A photo of the resulting polish left on a high quality Japanese knife is shown.