Sharpening Stones

Minonokuni's 4000 grit waterstone is a traditional Japanese finishing stone, custom specified by Minonokuni's craftsmen for Knife Merchant and tested extensively in regular use here in our own kitchen. This stone gives excellent feedback, develops a slurry easily, and resists dishing, holding its flat surface well over repeated use. It leaves a mirror finish with a level of polish that is noticeably better than other stones of comparable grit. As a traditional waterstone, it should be soaked before use, typically until the bubbles stop rising. The surface should be kept wet throughout sharpening. Made in Japan and sized at 210mm by 70mm by 20mm (8.25 by 2.75 by 0.8 inches), it pairs naturally with a coarser stone for edge repair. We like to pair this stone with the Minonokuni 1000 grit waterstone. Together these two stones are enough for a complete, simple sharpening routine, from re-establishing a dull edge to creating a refined, mirror finish. Chef Feedback “This is an excellent finishing stone that gives good feedback, creates a nice slurry, and is resistant to dishing. It imparts a nice mirror finish, with a much better finish than you would expect for this grit size. If you want just two stones for your knife maintenance, the Minonokuni 1000 and 4000 are a great combination.” Learn More