Top 11 Best Sharpening Stones (2025 Review)
- Jesse Shaw
- Jan 17, 2023
- 17 min read
Updated: Feb 24
Sharpening stones are abrasive tools used to sharpen the edges of chisels, knives, and other tools. They come in a variety of materials such as diamond, ceramic, and natural stones like Arkansas and Japanese water stones.
Sharpening stones are commonly made in a variety of grits, with a higher grit indicating a finer abrasive surface. They are used in combination with honing oil or water to lubricate the sharpening process.
There are two types of stones.
Water stones
Oil stones
One of the main differences is that oil stones are harder and sharpen faster however cleanup is a pain. While water stones are softer and gouge easier but the cleanup is much easier.
The higher the number the finer the polish just like what goes on with sandpapers. The following grits are the ones that you can choose from when buying a sharpening stone.
Grit 400
Grit 1000
Grit 3000
Grit 8000
Let us have a quick rundown of the best sharpening stones in the market right now.
Specs:
Manufacturer: Knife Planet
Dimensions: 11.77 x 8.35 x 3.78 inches
Weight: 5.81 lbs.
Package Includes: 2x sharpening stones (400/1000 and 3000/8000 grits)
Best Value
I have this one. It has everything you need as it includes two sharpening stones, one with 400/1000 grit and another with 3000/8000 grit. The 400/1000 grit stone is a coarse stone that can be used to repair and restore damaged edges, while the 3000/8000 grit stone is a finer stone that can be used to achieve a razor-sharp edge.
The set also includes a flattening stone, which can be used to level the surface of the sharpening stones, a bamboo base to hold the stones, a leather strop, which can be used to polish the edge of the blade, a honing guide, which can be used to maintain consistent angles while sharpening, and an angle tool and abrasive compound, which can be used to help achieve a precise edge.
This set is suitable for professional and home use, it's made of high-quality materials and is designed to provide a complete solution for sharpening knives and other cutting tools.
Pros:
The set includes two sharpening stones with different grit levels, which allows for a range of sharpening tasks from repairing and restoring damaged edges to achieving a razor-sharp edge.
It is made of high-quality materials such as premium sharpening stones, and leather strop, which are designed to withstand regular use and last for a long time.
The bamboo base and included honing guide make the sharpening process easy and convenient, while the flattening stone ensures that the sharpening stones remain flat and ready to use.
The leather strop included in the set can be used to polish the edge of the blade, giving it a smooth and shiny finish.
This set includes everything you need to sharpen your knives, including two sharpening stones, a flattening stone, a bamboo base, a leather strop, a honing guide, an angle tool, and an abrasive compound.
Cons:
This set may be more expensive than some other sharpening stone sets on the market.
Sharpening stones need to be flattened regularly, and the honing guide, angle tool, and abrasive compound may require regular cleaning and maintenance to ensure they are in proper working order.
The set is quite heavy because of the bamboo base, this may be a problem for some users who have difficulty moving it around.
Achieving a razor-sharp edge requires practice and patience, so this set may not be suitable for those who are looking for a quick and easy solution.
Specs
Set of 3: The set includes three 6-inch diamond whetstones
Grit: extra-coarse, coarse, and fine.
Size: Each whetstone is 6 inches in length and 2 inches in width.
Abrasive material: The whetstones are made from industrial diamond abrasive
Mounting: The whetstones are mounted on a hardwood box
Weight: 3.5 lbs.
Use: Designed for sharpening knives and other cutting tools.
Brand: Diamond Machining Technology (DMT)
Premium Experience Guaranteed
It is a high-quality set of diamond sharpeners designed for sharpening knives and other cutting tools. The set includes three 6-inch diamond whetstones with different grit levels: extra-coarse, coarse, and fine. Each whetstone is made from industrial diamond abrasive, which is known for its durability and effectiveness in sharpening knives.
The whetstones are mounted on a hardwood box, which provides a sturdy and durable base for the sharpeners, and also keeps them safe and protected. The set also includes detailed instructions on how to use the sharpeners to achieve the best results.
The DMT Diamond Whetstone sharpeners are considered one of the best in the market, they last longer and sharpen faster than traditional stones, the diamond abrasive is durable and consistent, the hardwood box is a nice touch, and makes the set easy to store and transport.
Pros:
The diamond abrasive used in the sharpeners is known for its durability, which means the sharpeners will last longer than traditional stones.
Diamond abrasive sharpeners are known to sharpen faster than traditional stones, which can save time when sharpening multiple knives or tools.
Diamond abrasive is consistent in its abrasiveness, which results in a more consistent edge on the blade
The set includes three different grit levels, which allows for a range of sharpening tasks from repairing and restoring damaged edges to achieving a razor-sharp edge.
The hardwood box provides a sturdy and durable base for the sharpeners, and also keeps them safe and protected, making it easy to store and transport.
DMT is a well-known and respected brand in the field of knife sharpening, their products are known for their quality and effectiveness.
The detailed instructions that come with the set make it easy for users to achieve the best results with the sharpeners.
Cons:
Diamond sharpeners can be more expensive than traditional whetstones.
Using a diamond whetstone may take some practice and learning for new users, as diamond abrasives behave differently than traditional abrasives.
Diamond sharpeners may require regular cleaning to ensure they are in proper working order.
The set is quite heavy, this may be a problem for some users who have difficulty moving it around.
Diamond sharpeners are not recommended for use on ceramic knives, and other brittle materials.
Specs:
Grit: It has two sides, one with extra-fine grit and the other with fine grit.
Size: The whetstone is 8 inches in length and 2 inches in width.
Abrasive material: The whetstone is made from industrial diamond abrasive.
Mounting: The whetstone is mounted on a durable plastic base
Base: The base has a non-skid bottom that helps keep it in place while in use.
Dimensions: 9 x 8 x 1 inches
Weight: 2 lbs.
Usage: For sharpening knives and other cutting tools.
Brand: Diamond Machining Technology (DMT)
Model: WM8EF-WB
More Coverage and Precision
The Diamond Machining Technology (DMT) 8-in. DuoSharp Plus Bench Stone Whetstone Extra Fine/Fine Grit Diamond Sharpening Stone with Base (WM8EF-WB) is a high-quality bench stone whetstone that is designed for sharpening knives and other cutting tools. The whetstone is made of industrial diamond abrasive, which is known for its durability and effectiveness in sharpening knives.
It is mounted on a durable plastic base, which provides a stable and secure platform for the whetstone, and also keeps it safe and protected. The base also features a non-skid bottom that helps keep it in place while in use.
The DMT DuoSharp Plus Bench Stone Whetstone is considered one of the best in the market, Its large size allows for more coverage and precision, the diamond abrasive is durable and consistent, the base is stable and secure and the double-sided design provides versatility.
Pros:
The materials used in this product are known for their durability, which means the whetstone will last longer than traditional stones.
Diamond abrasive sharpeners are known to sharpen faster than traditional stones, which can save time when sharpening multiple knives or tools.
Diamond abrasive is consistent in its abrasiveness, which results in a more consistent edge on the blade
The double-sided design of the whetstone provides two grit levels, extra-fine and fine, which allows for a range of sharpening tasks from repairing and restoring damaged edges to achieving a razor-sharp edge.
The plastic base provides a stable and secure platform for the whetstone and also keeps it safe and protected.
DMT is a well-known and respected brand in the field of knife sharpening, their products are known for their quality and effectiveness.
The 8-inch size of the whetstone allows for more coverage and precision when sharpening knives and tools.
The base features a non-skid bottom that helps keep it in place while in use, making it more stable and secure.
Cons:
Diamond sharpeners can be more expensive than traditional whetstones.
Using a diamond whetstone may take some practice and learning for new users, as diamond abrasives behave differently than traditional abrasives.
Diamond sharpeners may require regular cleaning to ensure they are in proper working order.
The set is quite heavy, this may be a problem for some users who have difficulty moving it around.
Diamond sharpeners are not recommended for use on ceramic knives, and other brittle materials.
Diamond sharpeners are not suitable for serrated knives or knives with a scalloped edge, they are designed for straight edges only.
It has only two grits and may not have the range of grits as other models or sets.
Specs:
Size: 8 x 12 inches
3 Diamond Grades: Coarse, Medium, and Fine.
Leather Strop Size: 8 x 3 inches
3 Strop Wax Compounds: Black, Green, and Brown.
Lapping Fluid: 4 oz
Tough Carrying Case: 12 x 9 x 3 inches
Materials Used: Diamond abrasive particles suspended in a durable metal matrix, Leather, and wax.
Expensive But Nice
It is a complete wet stone sharpening kit that includes three diamond grades (coarse, medium, and fine), a leather strop, three strop wax compounds, lapping fluid, and a tough carrying case. The kit is designed to sharpen knives, tools, and other edges to a razor-sharp finish.
The diamond stones provide a consistent, even sharpening surface and the leather strop helps to refine and polish the edge. The included lapping fluid and strop wax compounds allow for a smooth and efficient sharpening process. Designed for sharpening knives, tools, and other edges to a razor-sharp finish
Pros:
Diamond stones provide a consistent, even-sharpening surface
Leather strop helps to refine and polish the edge
Lapping fluid and strop wax compounds allow for a smooth and efficient sharpening process.
The kit includes everything you need for sharpening and polishing knives, tools, and other edges. It includes three diamond grades for coarse, medium, and fine sharpening, a leather strop for final polishing, three strop wax compounds, lapping fluid, and a tough carrying case.
Diamond stones are made with diamond abrasive particles suspended in a durable metal matrix, making them more durable than traditional oil stones or water stones. The leather strop and carrying case are also built to last.
The kit can be used to sharpen a wide variety of knives, tools, and other edges to a razor-sharp finish with precision and consistency
Easy to use
The case provides protection and easy storage.
Cons:
The 8 x 12-inch size of the diamond stones may be too large for some users, making it difficult to sharpen smaller items.
The kit requires the use of water or oil as a lubricant, which can be messy and may not be suitable for some users.
Might be expensive
Leather strop may wear out after prolonged use and need to be replaced.
Specs
Model no: D38CFE
Dimensions: 8 x 3 x 0.3 inches
Weight: 2.5 lbs.
Sharpness Overload
The Ultra Sharp Diamond Sharpening Stone Set is a set of three diamond sharpening stones that come in three different grits: coarse, medium, and extra fine. Each stone measures 8 x 3 inches and is made of high-quality diamond abrasive particles that are suspended in a durable metal matrix.
The set is designed for sharpening knives, tools, and other edges to a razor-sharp finish. The diamond stones provide a consistent, even sharpening surface that ensures a precise and consistent edge every time. The set comes in a durable plastic box for easy storage and transport.
Pros:
Diamond is one of the hardest materials known to man, making these stones extremely durable and long-lasting.
With three different grits (coarse, medium, and extra fine), the set can be used to sharpen a variety of different materials, including knives, tools, and other edge-based instruments.
The 8 x 3-inch size of the stones provides a large surface for sharpening, making it easy to sharpen larger items such as knives and tools.
The plastic base included in the set holds the stones securely while in use, providing stability and ease of use.
Diamond stones are known for their precision, they can sharpen edges to razor sharpness, and they can also be used to maintain and restore the edge of tools and knives.
Diamond sharpening stones are more durable than other types of sharpening stones, so they will last longer and save you money in the long run.
Cons:
Generally more expensive than other types of sharpening stones.
They require regular cleaning and lubrication to maintain their effectiveness and prolong their lifespan.
Diamond stones are considered to be more difficult to use, they may require more skill and practice to achieve the desired results.
Very hard and abrasive, they can cause serious injury if handled improperly. It is recommended to wear protective gear and take necessary precautions while using them.
The stones are quite heavy, it might be difficult to handle them for extended periods of time, especially for people with hand or wrist issues.
Not suitable for all materials: Diamond stones are not suitable for use on hard and brittle materials, it may cause chipping or cracking. They work best on metals, ceramics, and other hard materials.
Specs:
Grit type: Coarse and fine
Color: Gray
Dimensions: 6.3 x 4.6 x 0.75 inches
Weight: 9.9 oz.
4 Grits To Choose From
The 4 Pieces Diamond Sharpening Stone set from Fifchall is a set of diamond sharpening stones with four different grits: 400, 600, 1000, and 1200. Each stone is designed to be used for different stages of sharpening.
The set also includes an angle guide, which helps to ensure that the correct angle is maintained while sharpening, this can help to achieve a better edge and make the sharpening process more efficient.
The stones are made of high-quality diamond, which is one of the hardest materials known to man, making them extremely durable and long-lasting. This set is suitable for sharpening a variety of different tools and knives, including kitchen knives, chisels, and other edge-based instruments.
Pros:
The set includes four different grits (400, 600, 1000, and 1200) which can be used for different stages of sharpening, from heavily damaged or extremely dull edges to final polishing.
Diamond is one of the hardest materials known to man, making these stones extremely durable and long-lasting.
The angle guide included in the set helps ensure that the correct angle is maintained while sharpening, which can help to achieve a better edge and make the sharpening process more efficient.
The set is suitable for sharpening a variety of different tools and knives, including kitchen knives, chisels, and other edge-based instruments.
The set comes with a plastic base for holding the stones securely while in use, providing stability and ease of use.
Cons:
They need regular cleaning and lubrication to maintain their efficiency and excellent condition.
More difficult to use, they may require more skill and practice to achieve the desired results.
They can inflict serious injury if handled improperly. It is recommended to wear protective gear and take necessary precautions while using them.
May not be suitable for use on hard and brittle materials, it may cause chipping or cracking. They work best on metals, ceramics, and other hard materials.
Specs:
Dimensions: 7,2 x 2,2 x 1 inches
Weight: 3.43 lbs.
Materials: Aluminium oxide and cowhide leather
Grit type: Coarse and fine
Lightweight Dual-Grit Whetstone
The Sharp Pebble Complete Sharpening Stone Set is a set that includes a dual-grit whetstone (1000/6000), a bamboo leather strop, a non-slip bamboo base, an angle guide, and a green polishing/honing compound. The dual-grit whetstone is made of high-quality and durable corundum, it has one side with 1000 grit and the other side with 6000 grit. The 1000-grit side is intended for use on heavily damaged or extremely dull edges, while the 6000-grit side is intended for fine honing and polishing of already sharp edges.
The bamboo leather strop is used for final polishing and maintaining an edge on knives and other tools. The non-slip bamboo base provides stability while sharpening, and the angle guide helps to ensure that the correct angle is maintained while sharpening. This set is suitable for sharpening a variety of different tools and knives, including kitchen knives, chisels, and other edge-based instruments.
Pros:
The set includes all the tools you need for the complete knife-sharpening process
The bamboo leather strop can also be used for maintaining straight razors or chisels.
The bamboo base is eco-friendly and durable.
The angle guide is helpful for beginners to achieve consistent sharpening angles.
Cons:
Some users may find the angle guide to be unnecessary or difficult to use
The set may not be suitable for very dull knives or knives with significant chips or damage.
The green polishing compound is not suitable for all types of knives and its usage should be done carefully.
Some users may find the bamboo base to be too lightweight and may prefer a heavier, more stable base.
Specs
Product dimensions: 10 x 4 x 2.5 inches
Material: high-density corundum
400-grit side: Made for coarse sharpening and removing chips and damaged edges.
1000-grit side: It is for medium sharpening and honing.
6000 grit side: Made for fine sharpening and polishing.
Large Stones For Wider Chisels
The YEOPASDA Extra Large Knife Sharpening Stone Kit is a high-quality whetstone set that includes a 3-sided sharpening stone with 400/1000/6000 grit levels, a non-slip wooden base, an angle guide, and a pair of cut-resistant gloves. The extra-large size of the stone allows for ample room to sharpen larger knives and tools with ease.
There are 3 grits available for this such as 400, 1000, and 6000. The different grits allow for a full range of sharpening options and can be used to sharpen all types of knives, including kitchen knives, hunting knives, and pocket knives.
Overall, the YEOPASDA Extra Large Knife Sharpening Stone Kit is a comprehensive and versatile sharpening solution that can be used to sharpen all types of knives, and it comes with all the necessary accessories to make the sharpening process easy and safe.
Pros:
The non-slip wooden base provides a stable platform for the sharpening stone and prevents it from sliding while in use.
The angle guide helps to ensure that the correct angle is maintained while sharpening, which is crucial for achieving a razor-sharp edge.
It includes cut-resistant gloves that provide added safety when handling the knives during the sharpening process.
Everything is durable from the tiniest component of this kit up to the largest one.
The kit is XL in terms of size, which is good for sharpening large knives, scissors, machetes, and other tools.
The wet stone design helps to keep the blade cool and prevents overheating during sharpening.
Three grits to choose from means more tasks to accomplish.
Cons:
Wet stone sharpeners require more maintenance than dry sharpeners. They need to be soaked in water before use and dried thoroughly after use.
The kit is large in size and may take up a lot of storage space.
It's a bit of a higher cost than other knife sharpeners in the market, which may not be affordable for everyone.
Specs:
Dimensions: 8 x 2 x 1 inches
Weight: 1.8 lbs.
Grit type: 1.8 lbs.
Color: White and grey
Model number: MFC-8-C
Best For Personal Use Or As a Gift Item
The Genuine Arkansas Combination Soft (Medium) and Hard (Fine) Knife Sharpening Bench Stone Whetstone is a natural sharpening stone that is quarried in the Ouachita Mountains of Arkansas, USA. The stone is 8 inches long, 2 inches wide, and 1 inch thick. It comes in a wooden box and is labeled "MFC-8-C".
The Soft (Medium) side of the stone is used for honing and maintaining a sharp edge on knives, while the Hard (Fine) side is used for polishing and putting a final edge on the knife. The stone is made of Novaculite, a type of sedimentary rock that is known for its durability and ability to hold a fine edge.
The Genuine Arkansas stones are considered some of the best natural stones in the market and are widely used by professional sharpeners. They are known for their longevity, consistent quality, and effectiveness in sharpening blades.
Pros:
The stone is 8" x 2" x 1" in size, which is a good size for sharpening knives, chisels, and other cutting tools.
It is made from natural Novaculite rock, which is known for its durability and ability to hold a fine edge.
The stone comes in a wooden box, which provides a secure and safe storage.
Its combination of soft and hard sides provides the sharpener with a versatile option for honing and polishing their knives.
The stone is labeled "MFC-8-C" which is a widely recognized and well-regarded brand in the market, often used by professional sharpeners.
Cons:
The stone requires oil lubrication for maintenance and should be soaked in oil for 15 minutes before use. After use, the stone should be cleaned with a mild detergent and dried thoroughly.
Specs
Dimensions: 8 x 2 x 1 inches
Compatibility: Suitable for sharpening knives, chisels, and other cutting tools
Soft (medium) side: It is used for honing and maintaining a sharp edge on knives
Hard (fine) side: It is used for polishing and putting a final edge on the knife
Ultra Fine Grit For Sharp and Smooth Edges
The Genuine Arkansas Black Surgical (Ultra Fine) Knife Sharpening Bench Stone Whetstone is a natural sharpening stone that is quarried in the Ouachita Mountains of Arkansas, USA. The stone is 8 inches long, 2 inches wide, and 1/2 inch thick. It comes in a wooden box and is labeled "BAB-82-C".
This stone is known for its ultra-fine grit, making it suitable for sharpening surgical instruments and other precision cutting tools. The Black Surgical (Ultra Fine) side of the stone is used for polishing and putting a final edge on the knife. The stone is made of Novaculite, a type of sedimentary rock that is known for its durability and ability to hold a fine edge.
The Genuine Arkansas stones are considered some of the best natural stones in the market and are widely used by professional sharpeners. They are known for their longevity, consistent quality, and effectiveness in sharpening blades.
Pros:
Comes in a wooden box labeled "MFC-8-C" for safe storage
The natural Novaculite rock used in this stone is known for its fine, consistent grit, and ability to hold an edge well.
Aesthetically appealing
Reasonable pricing
Cons:
Requires oil lubrication for maintenance
Specs:
Material: Synthetic
Color: Gray
Grit type: Coarse, medium, and fine
Dimensions: 5 x 5 x 5 inches
Heavy-Duty Usage No Problem
TRI-HONE Sharpening Stones System is a three-stage sharpening system that includes a coarse diamond stone, a medium Arkansas stone, and a fine honing/polishing Arkansas stone. The stones are mounted on a plastic triangle base and can be attached to a bench or countertop.
This system is designed to sharpen and hone a wide variety of knives, tools, and other metal objects. The gray color probably refers to the color of the plastic triangle base.
It allows the user to sharpen and hone their blades with precision and efficiency, the coarse diamond stone is for the initial stage of sharpening, the medium Arkansas stone is for the second stage of honing, and the fine honing/polishing Arkansas stone is for the final polishing stage.
Pros:
The three-stage sharpening system includes a coarse, medium, and fine-honing stone, allowing for a range of sharpening options.
The stones are made from high-quality abrasive materials that are designed to withstand heavy use and last a long time.
The base of the system securely holds the stones in place during use, making it easy to sharpen knives and tools with precision and accuracy.
The compact size of the system makes it easy to store and transport. It is also easy to clean, rinse stones under water and dry it.
It is an affordable option for sharpening knives and tools, which can save you money in the long run compared to the cost of buying new knives or paying for professional sharpening services.
Cons:
Some users may find it difficult to maintain the correct angle while sharpening without a guide system.
The stones may require regular maintenance, such as flattening and cleaning, to ensure optimal performance.
Not suitable for serrated knives or scissors.
That's it, you can sharpen your tools with the help of any of the products that we've discussed. It just all comes down to your preferences.
Disclaimer: All opinions expressed here are my own based off of my experience as a fine furniture maker of 19 years. This post may contain affiliate links that may earn a small commission, at no extra cost to you.
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