Thread: Natural vs. Synthetic stones...

USA?
Hida Tool & Hardware Co., Inc.

Originally Posted by kevint

USA?
Hida Tool & Hardware Co., Inc.

I think those are synthetic, not natural stones.

Here is a link to Japan Woodworker. They have a section of natural stones including coarse stones. Check out their menu.

How about plain old oil stones.

India stones to Arkansas stones are a good time tested medium to fine progression that would do what you want.

Originally Posted by Cove5440

I think those are synthetic, not natural stones.

you think the naturals are synthetic?

Let me check that the link goes to the right page...go from Woodworking to Stone and you will find both kinds.

Red and white Amakusa, and Aoto.

Actually the aoto I have from what is now 330mate is a better stone than I received from Hidatool. I also got an Iyo from ebay and will sometime write 330_ to get a more premium piece.

Amakusa I do not have.
Naturals are imho irreplaceable in the finest grits, but man-made coarse and middle grits outperform in speed and consistency, unless you want to spend 3-400 for a middle stone.

Nevertheless I cut down some pieces to matching length and width so they fit nicely in one box.They are fun to use. And the fall off make good nagura to clean my shaptons and kings when making ready to shave wood.

Originally Posted by kevint

....Nevertheless I cut down some pieces to matching length and width so they fit nicely in one box.They are fun to use. And the fall off make good nagura to clean my shaptons and kings when making ready to shave wood.

What exactly are those stones you show? are the two yellowish ones amakusa?

L to R
nakayama asagi, shinden suita, aoto, iyo