Lee Valley King Basic Stone Set

King water stones were among the first Japanese stones introduced to the West. They are aluminum oxide abrasive in a resin bond. In our testing, they were effective in O1 steel but noticeably slower in tough alloys such as A2. The particles fracture and dull after a short period, performing like progressively finer grits, which allows you to move from a medium grit straight to a finishing stone. They are economically priced, require only a quick soaking before use, and are a good choice for honing softer tool steels or when cost is a concern.

These two water stones are the best all-purpose choice for basic sharpening.

The 800x cuts quickly, leaving a finish that is fine enough to go immediately to the 4000x stone for a final edge. Measures 8” × 2 1/2”x1 3/8”.

The standard 4000x water stone quickly puts a mirror edge on tools. It has the best combination of speed, economy and finish of our fine stones. Measures 7”x2 1/2”x3/4”.

Made in Japan.