Nothing can be more annoying than using dull equipment in the absence of the best sharpening stones. It will make you exert more force where you actually need to use the sharpness of the blade. Ultimately, you will end up having muscle pain which will take your annoyance to an infuriating level. To avoid this frustration, you should always keep your blade sharpened by using top quality sharpening stones.

A sharpening stone is widely used in the day to day life. It saves your valuable energy and effort by keeping the tools sharpened enough. Besides, it helps you maintain your blades for longer use and make the lifespan a bit bigger. No more chit-chat, now we will present you the 5 best sharpening stone reviews to help you choose the right one which we’ve handpicked from a mammoth lot of 837 from Amazon’s collection!

5 Best Sharpening Stones

01. Premium Knife Sharpening Stone 2 Side Grit 1000/6000 Waterstone | Best Whetstone Sharpener | NonSlip Bamboo Base & Angle Guide

Check Current PriceThis premium tool comes with a double-sided premium quality whetstone that has a coarse 1000 grit and a fine 6000 grit. The 1000 gritstone performs very well through getting all the nicks and chips out of the blade and the 6000 grit puts a nice smooth polished finish. This best knife sharpening stone has a bamboo base for holding the stone steadily while sharpening is done. It also includes a knife sharpening angle guide which is really handy.

A simple sharp pebble instructions manual is there for your easy understanding and useful guidance. Not only those, but you will also get a detailed sharp pebble eBook with lots of tips and tricks which will help you to achieve every skill level.

Like most of the top-level sharpening stones, it also uses water for sharpening and you don’t need to use expensive sharpening or honing oils. As a result, while sharpening, there are no messy substances on the body and you can clean it with great ease. Before using the stone make sure to soak it in water for at least 15 minutes to get the best output.

Also, there will be some metal residue on the stone which is essential for the efficiency of the sharpening process. So keep that on the stone and do not wipe it off.

The silicone base holds the stone inside the bamboo base which ensures that the stone is fixed in it while sharpening. Also, the knife sharpening angle guide will allow you to maintain an accurate angle so that you can safely apply consistent pressure on the blade. Some may face a bit of difficulty in maintaining the angle but you can overcome that issue by practicing and watching some youtube videos. If this sharp pebble whetstone review helps you, we’ll be really glad.

Pros:

• Superb finishing
• Non-slip stable bamboo base
• Excellent silicon base for stone
• Very useful instruction guide and eBook
• Best sharpening stone for kitchen knives

Cons:

• Angle guide a bit tricky to use
• Fine side of the blade sensitive to high pressure

 

02. BearMoo Whetstone 2-IN-1 Sharpening Stone 3000/8000 Grit Waterstone, Knife Sharpener Rubber Stone Holder Included

Check Current PriceThe BearMoo whetstone review will help you to choose wisely. This 2-in-1 whetstone has a coarse 3000 grit level alongside a fine 8000 grit. For making the sharp edge you should use the coarse side and the fine side can give you the finishing and polishing of the edge that you need. This quality knife sharpener is made of professional-grade white corundum which is superb in resisting corrosion and heat.

The finishing is such that the corners and edges are clearly recognizable. Except for serrated blades and ceramic tools, the stone can be used effectively for other blades.

As usual, you have to soak the stone into the water for at least five minutes and then place it on a firm surface. Maintain an angle range of 10-30 degree to put a perfect edge. Like before, use the 3000 grit first to get the sharp edge for about fifteen minutes.

After that, try the 8000 grit to get a smooth finish which may take about ten minutes. For aftercare of the blade, clean it with water or wet cloth and dry it. To clean the stone, use a soft brush and place it out to dry in a ventilated place.

Always use the whole surface of the sharpener to polish the blade. The two-sided stone has a brown and white color portion with a comfortable weight to carry in the woods. For maximizing the user experience, they also provide a sharpening stone guide which is a nice inclusion from BearMoo.

Pros:

• Good for high-level sharpness
• Non-slip silica base for safety
• High-grade corundum stone

Cons:

• Not for serrated blades and ceramic tools
• Expertise is needed to sharpen long blade

 

03. Lansky Puck (Budget Stone) – Dual Grit Multi-Purpose Sharpener – Blade & Tool Sharpener

Check Current PriceThis pocket-size Lansky dual grit has a coarse 120 grit side and a medium 280 grit side. The unique tool is ideal for sharpening a wide variety of blades. The Puck’s contoured shape is very much grip-able and provides enough safety while you do your tool sharpening. Its coarse side provides quick cutting and shaping, and the medium side will help to get the final finishing of the edge.

At first, you need to grip the tool or lock it in a vice to prevent slipping. You can also add some honing oil to the grit on the side of the Puck. Next, you should grasp the Puck firmly with the thumb and the fingers whilst supporting it by the palm of your strong hand. Then you move the Puck in a circular motion as you move along the whole cutting edge that needs to be sharpened.

If your tool is badly worn out or have a very dull edge, then use the coarse side of the Lansky Puck first to remove the unevenness. Next, apply the fine side of it to give a smooth finish. If you only need to polish it a bit, then there is no need to use the coarse grit instead use the finer part. As it is very small in size, it can serve you as an outdoor knife sharpener easily.

Expert handling is needed to get the best result from this tool sharpening stone. Its super low price makes it a real winner.

Pros:

• Extremely cheap
• Easy to carry
• Super quality tool

Cons:

• Handling a bit difficult
• Expertise is needed to get the best output

 

04. Double-Sided Knife Sharpening Stone Multi-Colored – 600/1000 Grit by Utopia Kitchen

Check Current PriceOur next pick is the double-sided 600/1000 grit from Utopia Kitchen which is one of the top performers in sharpening contests. It also has a coarse 600 grit side and a fine 1000 grit side which is made of abrasive carbon steel.  It has a slip-resistant rubber bottom that keeps the sharpener in place while in use.

This good sharpening stone case makes it easy to handle without giving too much effort. The silica gel non-slip base also helps to retain the high-performance level of the sharpener. You can use it effectively for a wide variety of blade sharpening.

This tool can be used for quick sharpening while maintaining the safety of the user. Very easy to use as it is a basic design sharpener. For the long blade, you can use a wider wooden base to keep the tool in a fix position. This stone is perfect for your daily maintenance by removing very little material away from your blade in a very short time. Before starting to use, first soak the stone for five minutes in the water and then place it on a firm platform.

After sharpening the tool use water to clean the blade and dry it then. Use a soft brush for the stone to clean and dry it in the air. Proper maintenance and a little bit of care can enlarge the lifespan of your sharpener. Use of a sharpening oil can also give a boost to your work. As for this low price this product is a bargain.

Pros:

• Handy slip-resistant rubber bottom
• High-grade corundum
• Best sharpening stone for chisels
• Non-slip silica gel base
• Low price

Cons:

• Handling may seem difficult for large blade
• Fine side is sensitive to high pressure

 

05. Smith’s TRI-6 Arkansas TRI-HONE Sharpening Stones System

Check Current PriceThis unique piece of beauty is from Smith’s family which has an exceptional tri-hone sharpening system. The coarse 400 grit and the medium 600 grit is synthetic stone whereas the fine 1000-1200 grit is made of natural fine Arkansas stone.

All these stones are mounted on a plastic molded triangle bade which is very much comfortable and user-friendly to identify and rotate during sharpening. The triangle bade is mounted on a molded plastic base that also has non-skid rubber feet to add more safety.

So, how should an Arkansas sharpening stone be used?

Before starting the sharpening process, you should put some honing solution to the surface. Water can also be used as a substitute but you don’t need to use a lot of them as a small amount would be enough for it. The absent of lubricant and water will cause damage to your stone. The angle guide will help you to keep the blade at a perfect angle so that you can get the best output.

As always try to maintain the same number of stroke for both of the sides to give each side the same edge. After ending the process, you should always clean your blade and sharpener with care. You can take good care of the stone by scrubbing the stone with water and liquid soap. As the stone is a medium grit one, you can’t expect to get a high sharpness out of it. To sum up, its a good sharpener.

Pros:

• User-friendly angle guide
• Unique three level grit
• Easy identification and rotation
• Nonskid rubber feet add safety

Cons:

• Medium grit level
• Not best for high sharpness

 

Buying Guide for Best Sharpening Stones

There are lots of product out there to choose from. And you can go for a perfect electric sharpener if you have enough budget. Sometimes it’s a bit difficult to pick the right one for you if you don’t have predetermined specifications for your product. Like for sharpening kukri blades, you need special stones. So to avoid that from happening you need to know what you are exactly looking for. The things that you should consider before buying your sharpening stones are:

Types of Sharpening Stones

There are basically four major types of sharpening stones out there to choose from. Each of them has their unique characteristics. Let’s see what are those types:

Water Stones

They are the most common types of sharpening stones available. Experts consider them as one of the best knife sharpening stones to choose from. The most highlighting feature of this type of stone is that they are available in different grit levels which is super useful for the users. Before using them you have to dip them in the water or soak them in it for about five to fifteen minutes. Which is also the reason for what they become very brittle due to constant soaking and drying.

Among these stones, Japanese water stones are very popular.

According to TheHomeDweller.com, natural Japanese stones are valued among those who are fond of knives and enjoy providing them with full care. It is no wonder they are a combination of abrasive properties and smoothness of blade sharpening.

With proper skills of handling these stones, you get the best quality sharpening of knives, razors and other cutting tools, and even high hardness – more than 58 HRC (Hardness Rockwell C).

*Hardened knife steels are generally about 58/62 HRC, depending on the grade.

The main disadvantage of natural stones is their high cost. The fact is that deposits of these stones are not bottomless, their extraction is regulated which only contributes to rising prices. Therefore, some particularly rare natural stones are not easy to get (due to their prices) and require careful handling.

Oil Stones

These types of stones need to splashing of oil on the surface before you use them for sharpening. By this technique, the residue of the process is cleared away during sharpening strokes. One of the types of oil stone is the Arkansas stone that uses natural oil. This liquidation process is essential because it ultimately contributes to the life cycle of the stone by preserving it for years to come. Also, they help to carry out the process very smoothly.

There are various grit levels for the oil stones too like the water stones. The coarse and medium types are for removing the hard edges and the fine types will give you a smooth finishing and a polished look. They are very durable types as they are made from aluminum oxide or silicon oxide.

It is very long-lasting as these types of rocks are very hard. The only con of these types of stones is that you have to buy oil for it separately which will increase the cost. But all in all, these natural sharpening stones are the superb tool to give your job perfect finishing.

Ceramic Stones

This is the best stone if you are looking for the long-lasting ones. As they are made from very hard particles they will be there for you for years to come. They also don’t need any oil or water to pour on the surface. So you can use them like that and it will give your blade a very sharp edge.

After sharpening you need to scrub the particles to remove from it. They will need very high and careful maintenance as ceramic particles are very much brittle.  It may break very easily if you drop it by any chance. In general, people are not very used to ceramic knife sharpening stones.

Diamond Stones

They are undoubtedly the best sharpening stones available in the market. Due to their strength and long-lasting abilities, they are the number one product category. As they are made from diamond they are very expensive which is their only downside. But if you can get one of these they will serve you for your life easily without any doubt. Diamond honing stones are best.

Types of Grit

There are basically three types of grit defined based on how fine polish you are going to give your blade. It is very important to choose the right types of grit for your tool. They are:

Coarse Grit

The coarse grit sharpening stone is the basic level stone which is very handy in removing the loose and hard particles of the blade. If you notice very carefully you will see that this coarse grit makes scratches very easily on the blade and gives a new edge so fast. For the dull blades and blades that need a new edge this stone is the primary requirement. Diamond stones are the basic coarse grit stones.

Medium Grit

This sharpening stone grit can give the blade a nice polish after the coarse grit is applied to your blade. It has a smooth finish than the coarse one. For the best sharpening process, this grit level’s inclusion can contribute significantly.

Fine Grit

Fine grit is the ultimate final grit level that is used for giving the tool best finishing. For the kitchen knives, this grit is a must-have as those knives need the finest touch on a regular basis. This grit is the best sharpening stone for kitchen knives. It removes the least amount of particle but gives the finest edge finishing.

Range of Grit

There are also a wide variety of grit levels out there that will suit for different purposes. The most common grit levels are:

220 Grit

If you want to give your blade a new shape, then this grit level is the best one for you. Other than that you should not use this one as it will remove a significant amount of particles from your tool. Generally, people don’t need these very often and beginners should not use these stones.

300 Grit

This grit will give an edge very easily for a dull knife. Like the previous one it will also wear off a lot of particles from the blade and beginners are prohibited from using this grit level.

1000 Grit

This is a very basic type of grit level which can be used by all level of users. You can use it in your kitchen with great comfort.

1200 Grit

The 1000 grit and the 1200 grit can be used interchangeably. However, the 1200 grits are best for the Japanese traditional knives to sharpen as they are more delicate than other types of blades. They are medium-level stones to be precise.

2000 Grit

This category is also included in the medium level of the classification. It will give much more fine edge than the 1200 grit though being in the same category. If you want to sharpen your knife or other blades on a regular basis, then you can use these grit as it doesn’t wear off too many particles from the blades.

3000 Grit

When you are giving a blade finer finishing it also becomes very prone to dullness as you use it in your day to day life. So to avoid that from happening you can use this 3000 grit level to give the blades medium level finishing. The advantage of doing it is that it will ultimately add more durability when you are cutting something with your blade.

You also need not soak it in oil or water unless and until you are instructed for by the manufacturer when you are using fine stones. Most of the case you simply need to wet the surface and then use it. Otherwise, it will make cracks in it and the stone can become very weak and brittle.

5000 Grit

This is a mid-level stone that can be widely used in between a coarse and a fine stone as you are giving your blade an extra-ordinary finishing. It will help to sharpen your blade with ease as there would be three-level sharpening done to the blade. The blade will be done by the grit levels smoothly.

You also need to remember that like the 3000 grit you also need to be careful not to soak it in water or oil other than specified by its manufacturer. For western knives, it is very suitable to use.

6000 Grit

This is the primary level finishing stone that is used by all. If you need to give your tool a nice finishing, you must use this grit level right now.

8000 Grit

This is by far one of the best finishing stones available in the market. It will give your blade a superfine touch and make it shine like glass! One very important note to remember about this category is that you need to avoid soaking it in any liquid to protect its hardness. If the manufacturer specifies to do that, only then you should do it.

The shape of the Tool

The shape of the tool is a contributing factor in choosing a stone. It will create a lot more comfort if the shape is perfect for daily use. Also, the transportation advantage is also a factor to consider when you are choosing one. Some may be very hefty while some others are lightly weighted.

The shape of the tool is also vital for your safety when you are sharpening your blade. You should always try to follow some safety measures when you are dealing with a sharp tool. For this, you can also check our detailed safety guidelines.

Some stones have three different grit levels commonly known as a multipurpose stone. This highest grit sharpening stone may give some extra fine touch but at the same time, it may cost you more than your budget. There are different categories of stones budget-wise and you can choose from them as you need.

The more you will spend the more versatile and user-friendly types are there for you. But also there are some budget stones for you if you can rightly pick that from the lists. Besides, you need to know the techniques of using them correctly.

Frequently Asked Questions(FAQs)

Let’s go through below questions that people frequently ask.

1. What grit whetstone should I get?

Whetstones are found in a range of grits, starting from 220 up to 8000. You should get below 1000 grits for giving your blade a new shape. Then comes the medium grit level of 1000 to 3000 grit which is good at giving your blade a regular sharpening. Finally, you should get above 3000 grit for giving a fine finishing touch.

2. Can you use olive oil on a sharpening stone?

Depending on the nature of the sharpening stone you may use water or oil. You can use the recommended honing oils for your stone. But you shouldn’t use food oils like olive oil or vegetable oil.

3. What grit to sharpen a knife?

To sharpen a knife, you can use medium grits (1000 to 3000 grit) to give initial edge retention. And, then use the finer grits (3000 to 8000 grit) to give a nice finishing.

4. How long do you soak a whetstone?

Actually, that will depend on the grit levels of the whetstone. For a whetstone of lower grit, you may need to soak it up to 15 minutes. And, for a medium grit level, it is recommended to soak it for about 5-10 minutes.

Conclusion

A nice sharpened blade can save your day while you have a busy schedule ahead of you. It will save you time and help you to do the job smoothly with great ease. And for that sharpened blade, you really need a superb stone as that will take care of the edge for you. In this section, we tried to present the 5 best sharpening stones before you so that you don’t need to be overwhelmed by the vast number of products out there.

We have picked the most user-friendly ones whilst keeping in mind the price also. Hope this article on sharpening stone reviews may guide you to the perfect stone you need.