Hi Ryan,

Of course the c12k works. Its slow. Painfully slow. Can it work is usually less the issue than how does it work compared to alternatives. As Glen will attest, you might have to buy several before you get one whose edge you like. Is it really that cost effective then? Toss in how different blades respond to the natural stone, and I can't see it as a best bet - compared to a high grit synthetic. I've not found a more cost effective edge than the Naniwa 12k unless you go to pasted strops. I have stones from which I like the finish better, but not for the money. I think we have many guys who've begun honing that concluded the same. I used the c12k for my first 7 months of honing. For the money - it does give sharp. If you get lucky, I hear you can also get smooth. I've yet to be that lucky.