Thread: Natural vs. Synthetic stones...

I know there are lots of debates over this issue, but this is not a debate.

Synthetic stones are readily available.

Finding natural stones is a bit more difficult.

Here is my problem:

I'm going to replace my Norton 4k/8k with a Belgian Combo stone (Cot/BBW), but as far as finding replacements for the 220/1k, it's a bit more difficult.

I think I found a replacement for the 1k in a Japanese Natural Aoto stone. The rating on this from my research is roughly 800-2k grit. I think another option would be a Binsu stone (800-1200), but my searches for that have turned up no results. The only thing I can find as far as replacing the 220 is an Amakusa stone (400-800) but I haven't found a place to buy one of those either.

So my question is this:

What are some good choices, IYO of course, to replace 220 and 1k stones?

Also, where would I be able to purchase these stones? I already sent OLD_SCHOOL a PM asking him about the lower grit naturals, and am awaiting a response

Thanks for all your help

*EDIT* A question in my research has just appeared to me. The info on this site where I got the grit ratings for these japanese stones...it it a grit measure in the JIS system, or the ANSI standard? Here is the post I got it from http://straightrazorpalace.com/basic...tml#post453541

This question came up because I just saw an Amakusa stone for sale rated at as 1k in the JIS system.

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