My stone came with black staining on the back side from sitting in the rubber base during shipping. Perhaps from the heat, I don't know. I'm not sure if this will affect honing. The staining could be rubber? The vendor and Suehiro say "probaby not" but I don't think they're 100% sure. They say because it's for razors, I may feel it. From now on, All Suehiro 20k's will be wrapped in plastic before shipping. Did anyone else have this?
I wanted to keep the logo side pristine, so I left it. Now, I'm wondering if I should lap the top side and use it instead. BTW, Stu is a great guy, and will work with me. I want know what you guys have found. My stone can't be the only one that has black stains that cannot be removed.
Would you ask for a replacement stone?
BTW, All my razors are finished up to a Nakayama Asagi, so I have nothing to hone at the moment to test it.
Keep in mind, we're dealing with a very fine 20k finisher. (The stone looks worse in real life..)