Japanese Natural Finishing Whetstone - Heirloom Quality Mizuasagi Awasedo

This exceptional Japanese Mizuasagi Awasedo Whetstone (unknown mine, but almost certainly and eastern mine like Ozuku or Wakasa) is a rare treasure, purchased by us from the estate of a collector of fine Japanese hones. A bench size hone, it measures 207mm long x 60mm wide and 30mm thick (8.15 in long × 2.36 in wide × 1.18 in thick) with a weight of 950 grams. The gorgeous cloudy surface appearance is also marked by Goma, which indicates a high quality Asagi and good cutting ability.

Thoroughly evaluated by 3 experts, this whetstone comes with a pedigree of testing and appreciation. Initially assessed and sold by Keith Johnson of Brooklyn, a highly respected authority in the whetstone community, the stone has been extensively tested by its next owner with his detailed notes included right on the stone. Its excellence has been further verified by Matt of Griffith Shaving Goods, confirming its status as an ideal finishing stone for the finest razors or kitchen knives. All sides and back of the hone have been sealed with cashew lacquer to preserve the long-term integrity of the stone. 
Whether used for honing razors to a mirror-like edge or perfecting the blades of precision kitchen knives, it promises unmatched results.

In addition to the notes left on the stone by the previous owner, Matt has observed the following qualities during testing:
- Very hard, a good base for softer Nagura including Mikawa nagura progression
- thick, muddy gray slurry is quickly release by diamond plate nagura
- remarkable abrasive power for the hardness, slurry darkens quickly when a razor is honed with a little pressure and a thick slurry
- powerful abrasive feedback with slurry
- great silky feedback on water only, not skippy or glassy feeling
- leaves a very smooth, buttery & keen edge