Japanese Natural Whetstone 540g Shohonyama 正本山合砥 Grit 5000 Lv4.0

This 540g Shohonyama Aito (合砥) natural whetstone from Kyoto, rated at approximately Grit 5000, is a premium Japanese finishing stone ideal for achieving refined edges. Upon testing, it performs exceptionally well, sharpening quickly while producing a beautiful hazy kasumi finish on the blade surface—distinct from a mirror polish, offering that classic misty aesthetic prized in traditional sharpening.


Its compact size makes it somewhat challenging for larger chef's knives but perfectly suited for smaller tools like chisels or straight razors. The stone releases slurry rapidly, cuts aggressively yet smoothly, and cleans up effortlessly with minimal mud buildup, saving significant time during maintenance.


There is a small dimple near the center, but it does not impact overall performance and can gradually flatten with continued use. This whetstone is highly recommended for craftsmen who prioritize razor-sharp edges and efficient honing.