Indeed, a variety is avaliable. The OP was inquiring as to a good beginners set. I think the Nortons are best for learning as they can be soaked without distortion and constant flattening like the Naniwas, which also tend to confuse with the many numbers avaliable. The Shaptons are much more aggressive and costly and lend themselves to more experience. Of course naturals are an entirely different and individual animal. It is hard to get consistant advise on Naturals as they all have individual personalities and must be learned by the user.The poster wants to know recommendations on which to learn. Aso consistancy is key to obtaining advise from others here. IMO the Nortons with the 12000 Naniwa to finish is the best, most economical, and consistant set upon which to learn honing skills, IMHO. Slurry is not an issue with the Nortons for beginning honers, and YES, I have used them all!