Well I got it today, definitely a thuringian of Escher quality but man is it small! I am glad I didn't buy the other two. I am sure it is my inexperience to a point but I really do prefer a longer stone. It is not so much the width (1 inch) but more thein length, at just 5 inches. I can see where it would be a good travel stone for touch ups but might prefer my dubl duck or natural bout. As most of you know I have been looking very hard for a longer stone but have had no luck. My first time not being able to buy something. Man! A good lesson though I am sure. I will just have to bide my time, unless someone out there knows of one...........