Thread: Clay stones in water

I'm sure this has been asked and answered but I am terrible at searching the form.
Can the King stones be stored in water or will they soften and come apart?

Ray T

I've had my King 800 in water constantly for about 3 years and have had no issues.

Years ago, to this very point, I kept a piece of a 4000 King is water for months with no problems.

I have seen several videos where it appeared as though the stones were taken out of plastic storage tubs. And I believe Glen mentioned he uses distilled water in his video. But was not sure if these were clay based as the Kings or something else.

Originally Posted by joamo

I've had my King 800 in water constantly for about 3 years and have had no issues.

Mines been in water almost constantly for 4-5 years with no issues

Originally Posted by wmrayt

I have seen several videos where it appeared as though the stones were taken out of plastic storage tubs. And I believe Glen mentioned he uses distilled water in his video. But was not sure if these were clay based as the Kings or something else.

Yup! Distilled Water with a cupful (about a Tablespoon) of regular Chlorine Bleach per gallon in it.

I do the same! I change water out about every 3-4 months and my hones (including a King 1200) are Never Slimy and they haven't deteriorated.

I am glad you asked!
As an aside, Do not soak Chosera stones, the binder is different. Some of the newer ones will get a white deposit and sometimes crack.
From my experience.
~Richard

Originally Posted by Geezer

I am glad you asked!
As an aside, Do not soak Chosera stones, the binder is different. Some of the newer ones will get a white deposit and sometimes crack.
From my experience.
~Richard

Thanks for adding in Richard--I was only thinking about the 'Clay Stones' in question.

Yes, but it is a great idea to remind any users of Naniwa Chosera or Professional hones that they must not be soaked in water for any length of time. Follow the instructions provided with the hones. Even if you do it all right, you might end up with some crazing. My 5k has suffered the worst.

Apart from the 800, 1000, and 1200 King stones, I would not store the higher grit Ice Bear stones in water for an extended period. The 8000 shouldn't even be soaked too far in advance as it's prone to softening that way. Safest bet over all is to soak the lower grit stones for 20 minutes prior to use, then let them air dry until the next use. The 4k/6k/8k stones, just give them a brief soak prior to use and let them air dry after use as well.