I ordered the Woodcraft Chinese 12k stone last Friday (8x2 for $20). It arrived yesterday.

The stone that I received was in excellent condition - no pits, nicks, flaws. The edges were already rounded (in case you didn't know, that's a good thing). I tested whether it needed lapping, and it did not.

Up until now, I have been using a Select Coticule as my fnisher. The C12k definitely takes the Coticule's edge to the next level (this is no big surprise other than to confirm what has been previously stated numerous times here already). The stone is a slow cutter, so be prepared to make 60-100 strokes.

My point in posting this is to say that if you are on a tight budget and looking for a good polishing/finishing stone, you should seriously consider one of these.