One of our most trusted sources handpicks these stones from the famed Imanishi stone shop in Kyoto just for us. These tennen toishi represent some of the best value you will find on the market for natural stones. They are generally prime examples of how stones with "ordinary" aesthetics can belie the efficacy and ease of use for stones that are often otherwise overlooked (oh, and they save you money too!).
These stones are so impressive that they often make you feel like you are cheating, so to speak - they provide outstanding results, at a speed seemingly found only in stones that cost many times more, all while being easy to use - they make it seem as if you have learned years of polishing in a matter of minutes. Combining these gems with the correct blade, you will come to understand the beautiful harmony skilled polishers sometimes have difficulty describing, and which really ties the whole subject of steel and stone together.
We are proud to provide such wonderful pieces to you.
Brand: Imanishi 今西製砥
Producing Area: Kyoto, Kyoto Prefecture - Japan
Appearance: Classic, light-green Asagi with some faint blues and a sighting or two of small Namazu
Size: 196mm x 73mm x 37mm
Weight: 1173g
Grit Range: 4000-6000
1-5 Scale: 1 = Less, 5 = More
Hardness Level: 4
Scratch Depth: 2.5
Speed: 3.5
Wear Rate: 1.5
Self Slurry: 3.5
Thirst: 2.5
Consistency: 3.5
Ease of Use: 3.5
Notes: Fast, with black slurry after a few seconds. On the slightly harder side but actually difficult to get unwanted scratches, making it easier to use then the vast majority of stones of similar hardness. Feedback is smooth with some intermittent tackiness that adds a little speed. Another fantastic handpicked stone at a great price.
Recommended Usage: Gorgeous Kasumi! Final or pre polisher. Very refined toothy edges. Firm and fine enough for finishing or pre polisher for push-cut tools.
Please Note: Given the natural aspect of these stones, all graded characteristics are our own subjective thoughts which may vary from your expectations and assessment. The images shown and characteristics described may be from a previous example, or when first measured before being tested numerous times. If purchased, yours may differ slightly in appearance and qualities.