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Hitohira

Hitohira Picked Shobudani Natural Stone (No.0028)

Regular price
€1.105,00 EUR
Regular price
Sale price
€1.105,00 EUR
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Description

About Natural Stones

Natural sharpening stones, known as JNATs or Tennen Toishi, are quarried from mountains across Japan. These stones are a product of Japan’s unique sedimentary and geological history, which makes them rich in silica and silicon oxide—key elements that enable effective sharpening of steel. When combined with the clay that acts as a binder, the resulting material can vary in cutting speed, depending on the proportions of each component. Japan is one of the few places in the world where such a diverse range of these stones can be found.

The availability of these natural stones has played a crucial role in Japan’s history of swordmaking and the production of high-quality tools. Beyond their practical uses, they also hold significant historical and cultural value. The world of natural sharpening stones is as complex as it is fascinating.

Tennen Toishi stones offer performance that’s unmatched by most man-made sharpening stones. They are known for their longevity, superior edge quality, and the ability to produce exceptional polishes. These stones typically provide better cutting performance and long lasting edges.
Natural stones are evaluated based on size, hardness, fineness, evenness, and cutting speed. Stones that are large, fine, fast, and produce clean finishes are often the most desirable.

While general characteristics can be identified based on the mountain or mine of origin, each stone is unique. Stones from known sources may have predictable qualities, but individual testing is essential to assess their specific performance.

Soft and fine natural whetstone are very rare. Very easy to use and great size. 

Detailed Spec

Brand: Hitohira ひとひら
Product Type: Natural Stone
Producing Area: Kyoto/ Japan
Recommended Usage: Kitchen Knife (Edge), Kitchen Knfie (Bevel), Chisel, Plane, Hagane Polish, Kasumi Finish
Hardness (5 = Very Hard): 2.4
Grain Scale (5 = Very Fine): 3.8
Sharpening Speed (5 = Very Fast): 4
Soaking Requirement: Not required
Size: 204 x 75 x 45mm
Weight: 1570g
Revied by Naoki Tsuda
Update: March 6, 2024

*Please understand that all pictures on our website are made of random samples and as most products are made with natural materials by hand the color, appearances and even measurements can slightly vary. Please contact us if you wish to see the exact item we have on hand.