The Aoto Thread

[mainaman]

Quote above is absolutely right. Aoto is not suitable for razors. It is traditionally used for knifes only. Structure of the hone and it's and fragility can damage the edge.

In fact, I also wanted to buy Aoto for initial sharpening. I have one from 330 and the quality of the stone is not excellent.

I asked Morihei san about aoto, and the reply was

we usually use stones in following order

1. Initial sharpening: Arato
2. Middle sharpening: Nakado
3. Finishing

In general, Aoto is used at finishing (usually just before final finishing) and at the middle sharpening..
Aoto is rarely used as Arato (i.e. at initial sharpening)
Aoto is usually very soft and it is fragile.

Using Aoto as finishing or Nakado for knives is good.
But we think it will take away a fine edge of razors because of it’s fragility.
Aoto is fragile, so as you use Aoto, there will be small hollow or chips which sensitive blades of razors will be stuck with.

I am sorry but you are a bit off, there are very good Aoto, although rare, that are very fine stones and also very hard stones.
Take a look at this:
JapaneseNaturalStones.com: Why i do not sell Aotos

[Traskrom]

there are very good Aoto, although rare, that are very fine stones and also very hard stones.[/url]

For the knifes - sure. But I am personally wouldn’t use it for razors.