Thread: Translucent Arkansas Stone

I've heard about surgical black Arkansas stones, but I ran across a finer grade called translucent. From what I've read, a lot of people had the impression the beds that produced these stones ran dry a while ago yet here we are with new stones. Anyone know the story behind this? Are these too fine to use on a straight razor?

They are definitely NOT! to fine. They are much to slow!

The manner in which Arkansas stones are graded is differnt than other stones. When they are graded on the same scale then these are rated about 2000 ANSI/CAMI or 4000 JIS. This however does not tell the whole story.

The real and only test is if YOU can hone your razor to an acceptable level with this stone. Some have, I have not.

Good luck if you buy this stone,

Originally Posted by mgraepel

I've heard about surgical black Arkansas stones, but I ran across a finer grade called translucent. From what I've read, a lot of people had the impression the beds that produced these stones ran dry a while ago yet here we are with new stones. Anyone know the story behind this? Are these too fine to use on a straight razor?

First, let me give you an Internet reference. Randy is right in that Arkansas stones are graded on hardness, regardless of color.

I have a large translucent Arkansas stone. In case of fire, it would be the second thing I would grab on evacuation of my condo.* In the 18th and 19th centuries, after slate, Arkansas stones were the hone of choice.

Today we have choices, and some would quip distractions.



* If you said, "I'll bet the first thing he'd grab would be his case of several Bill Wilson combat-modified Colt .45ACP pistols." .... award youself!

Originally Posted by uthed

* If you said, "I'll bet the first thing he'd grab would be his case of several Bill Wilson combat-modified Colt .45ACP pistols." .... award youself!

I understand . That's how I feel about my Les Baer!

Originally Posted by uthed

First, let me give you an Internet reference. Randy is right in that Arkansas stones are graded on hardness, regardless of color.

I have a large translucent Arkansas stone. In case of fire, it would be the second thing I would grab on evacuation of my condo.* In the 18th and 19th centuries, after slate, Arkansas stones were the hone of choice.

Excellent site and information, thank you for the response. Maybe a silly question, but would e-bay be a bad place to get these stones from? Worse than an online retailer?

Originally Posted by mgraepel

Excellent site and information, thank you for the response. Maybe a silly question, but would e-bay be a bad place to get these stones from? Worse than an online retailer?

Gee, that would depend on whether I was the seller, wouldn't it? Seriously, a translucent Arkansas stone is (hopefully) a once in a lifetime purchase. I went to the source for mine.

daviduthe

Thank you David!

Randy Tuttle