Hatanaka Nakayama Namito Rare Japanese Natural 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 195 mm (7.68 inches) long × 70 mm (2.76 inches) wide × 27 mm (1.06 inches) tall, and weighs 908 g (32.03 oz / 2.00 lbs).

Hardness: 5
Vintage Hatanaka Nakayama Asagi mined from the Namito layer. This Azuki or green colored Asagi is extremely dense and fine. The hunter green base holds Suminagashi patterns within which pop when the stone is wet. This is a stamped stone with original box and label which was sitting in the collection of a retired Japanese carpenter who said it was purchased at a tool shop which sold Hatanaka Stones. This super hard Namito is perfect for razors and tool finishing. Although super hard, it demonstrates a mild buoyancy which adds to its ease of use and operation. When honing water only, a mildly nuanced feel can be felt through tactile texture which keeps things interesting. Capable of producing Light saber, hyper keen edges which Nakayama Namito are known for. Amazing for final finishing of razor edged tools like planes and chisels. Although this stone is quite hard and fine, it has a delicate, gentle feel and operation when used with heavier blades like kitchen knives. Inky, fast cutting performance when used for knives and tools and heavier pressure on razors. Also great for Mikawa nagura progressions with its high hardness making it an extremely versatile stone overall. bright, highly refined mirror like finish is achieved which is typical for a vintage Nakayama. Although the shape isn't flawless, it represents a unique, rare piece of honing history.